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The Photon X-Light Micro is LRI's low price version of
the Photon Freedom. This new light has all of the features
of the Photon Freedom, but comes in a slightly larger
polycarbonate case and includes a glow-in-the-dark switch.
It still has a microprocessor and single operating switch
that allows you to select from a variety of operational
modes. The white LED model was reviewed.
Body:
The Photon X-Light Micro is made with a polycarbonate
translucent clear case. The case is a snap-together clamshell design
which allows it to be opened easily
for battery changes. It is powered by
2 x 2016 lithium coin cells. The switch is just
a single click switch behind the rubbery glow-in-the-dark
pad on one side. Pressing the switch using various methods allows
you to access the different modes. The settings are:
High, Variable brightness selection, Fast blink, Medium
blink, Slow blink, SOS, and Momentary use. A lobster-claw
clip is included for attaching the unit to your keychain.
Batteries are also included.
Bezel/Head:
Since the LED is mostly recessed behind two shelf-like extensions at
the front of the case, there is only small potential that it
would be damaged by impact. The two shelves above and below
the LED also cause the beam to be truncated a bit at the top
and the bottom.
Output:
The white light produced by the LED creates a beam
that has a slight bluish tint in the center and a slight
yellowish tint around the edges. During normal use the
tinting is not really noticeable.
When you first get the light it will be in
"demonstration" mode. Press and hold the switch until
the light turns off (about 20 seconds). After that you
can access all of the modes. Here's how they work:
Off -> Press and release: on high -> Press and hold:
variable dimming starting high, release when it gets to
the level you want -> Press and release: Off
Off -> Press and hold: variable dimming starting low,
release when it gets to the level you want -> Press and
release: Off
Either of the above: Press and hold until the light
starts blinking for Low, Medium, High strobes and SOS in
that order, repeating. Release when it gets to the mode
you want. Press and release to turn off.
Off -> Press and release rapidly several times ->
Momentary only mode, only works when pressing the switch
- for 3 sec. use or less at a time. Press and hold until
light turns off to take it out of this mode.
There is also a secret "50% " mode that will help
conserve battery life. If you press-hold to turn on
the LED, and immediately release the button as soon
as the LED turns on, you can then press-hold the button
to ramp up the LED in 50% mode. This appears almost
as bright as the regular LED mode, but uses less
power.
Beam at one meter at target center
Runtime Plot:
No runtime plot will be completed
for this light at this time.
Switch:
The switch is one button on the top
that you press in various ways to get to the different
modes. The rubber cover over the switch is made with a
glow-in-the-dark material so it is easier to locate. A
fairly significant amount of pressure is needed to turn
the switch on and an audible click is produced.
Seals / Water Resistance:
The X-Light isn't really water resistant. At all.
Try your best to keep it dry.
If it gets wet inside, just disassemble as much a possible
without tools and let it dry before using again.
Ergonomics:
Small, lightweight, and easy to use.
Nothing additional to report here.
Size compared to a common 2AA aluminum light
Batteries:
Two 2016 lithium coin cell batteries power the light.
To change out the batteries: pop open the case (there
is a slot near the keychain attachment for a small screwdriver),
drop out the old cells, place in new cells observing
proper polarity. Snap the case back together and you're
ready to go.
Accessories:
A lobster claw keychain is attached.
What I Liked: Generally impact resistant,
Good output, Relatively easy battery change, Lightweight, Many
functions.
What I Didn't Like: Not water resistant
Picky Little Things: Nothing really
Conclusions: A great little keychain light!
I really don't think you could ask for much more considering all of the
features available.
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