NOTE: This is an updated review as of June 2003. InReTech sent us a new white module for evaluation and the quality of their product has improved significantly since it originally came out. They have improved their Luxeon Star selection and the quality of the kit to the point where the review rating jumps 1 full Star to 4 Stars! Well done InReTech!

Short Description:

The InReTech White is a replacement bulb for the MagLight MiniMag flashlight. It is available from InReTech either installed in a MagLight or by itself. The replacement bulb reviewed employs a single white Luxeon Star LED attached to a board with prongs for insertion into the MiniMag bulb socket. Also included is a Luxeon Star collimating lens to replace the original reflector and an O-ring to support the lens in the light head. The purpose of this modification is to provide the user with a reliable, very long life light source with very good initial brightness levels. The module is available in a variety of different Luxeon Star colors, and in a variety of different MiniMag case colors.

The process for inserting the replacement bulb into the MiniMag is quite simple. First, remove the batteries and replace with nearly dead batteries (for testing purposes only - to prevent damage to the module if you insert it backwards). Remove the head of the light. Unscrew the lens cap on the head and remove the reflector and lens from the head. Drop the collimator lens into the lens cap and place the O-ring over the conical end of the collimator, pressing it into the lens cap. Replace the lens and lens cap. Remove the bulb from the body of the light and replace with the InReTech bulb. If it does not light up, remove, turn 180 degrees and reinsert. Replace head of light and turn on and off as before. The light does lose its ability to focus. Now remove the nearly dead batteries and replace with new.

The beam produced by the InReTech bulb is a smooth flood. The light should only be turned on enough to make the light come on. Further unscrewing of the head causes the collimating lens to become ineffective in directing the light in a coherent beam.

The light still uses 2 AA batteries, but Lithium AA batteries can be used for a boost of brightness and presumably longer runtime and cold weather resistance.

Reviewer's Impressions:

The InReTech White MiniMag replacement bulb is good demonstration of how Luxeon Star LEDs can be used to replace incandescent light bulbs in flashlights. While the appearance of the module is a little rough, it does exactly what it intends - namely to produce a good amount of light for a long period of time on 2 AA batteries while giving much cleaner output than the original bulb.

Fit and finish of the module is good. The Luxeon Star emitter is centered and is surrounded by a black epoxy. The pins under the module are bent at a curve to allow insertion into the bulb socket of the MiniMag. The collimating lens still has its original tab on one side which prevents it from centering exactly in the bezel, but this has no real effect on the beam. When inserted into the head of the light, the collimating lens is supported from the rear by the included o-ring which is inserted against the back of the lens.

Durability of the module is much better than the original incandescent bulb. You can beat the light practically to pieces and the bulb will not "blow". Construction of the module seems solid, being epoxied together on the upper surface.

Output is very good with 2 AA batteries coming in at about 200 lux. Of course output will diminish as the batteries are depeleted. When using Lithium AA batteries light output should be even better. The beam is smooth with good color. In all, it is more than adequate for nearly any close- to medium range task in a low light situation.

Water resistance is basically the same as when it had the MiniMag bulb. The light should survive a dunk with no problem. Shake it off and keep going.

If you plan on keeping your Minimag, get one of these modules. You'll come to appreciate it very quickly.

+ + + Pluses: Tough, Long battery life, Lightweight, Stands up, Bulb cannot blow, Great color and brightness

- - - Minuses: Assembly required unless bought pre-installed