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The Nuwai 1 Watt ALX-2512AA is made of aluminum and
contains a Luxeon I (low dome) LED driven by two common
AA cells and a constant output driver circuit to help
maintain constant brightness throughout the usable life
of the cells.
Body Description: The body of the ALX-2512AA is made
of anodized aluminum with a sliver finish. The head of
the light has several plateaus and valleys which serve
as an anti-roll device when it is placed on its side.
The body then tapers rapidly to the body tube which has
three checkered sections, the larger of which has a flat
panel milled into the side. The checkering appears to be
good quality and is not abrasive. At the end is the tailcap
which is also knurled for grip and contains the click
switch and a lanyard hole.
Bezel/Reflector/Bulb: The head of the light contains
a plastic lens, an internal reflection collimator lens backed
by a silver reflector cup, the Luxeon I LED, and a driver
circuit tucked underneath. The head unscrews and takes
the lens with it. The reflector is a large slug of aluminum
which is screwed in place and has a wide grooved lip. The
reflector holds the Luxeon, below, in place.
Output: Output is in the form of a bright white light
with a very very slightly purplish tint which has no
real impact on its usability. The beam is smooth with
a slightly squarish central spot surrounded by a bright
corona which tapers off around the edges.
Beam at one meter at target center
Runtime Plot: Looks like we have a simple boost regulator
in there. I'd call it semi-regulated. You'll get about
4½ hours before it really drops off. Not bad
at all.
Runtime
completed with Duracell batteries. More information
on runtime plots is available HERE.
Switch: The switch protrudes from a dimple in the
center of the tailcap. It is a simple rubber covered
clickie. There is no real texture on the switch cover,
but is is not slick. Pressing in partially allows for
momentary operation, pressing in fully until it clicks
allows for constant operation. The switch provides both
tactile and auditory feedback when clicked on or off.
The switch cannot be "locked out" to prevent accidental
activation. If transporting in luggage/backpack/etc.,
remove the batteries.
Seals: Both ends of the light are sealed with O-rings
for water resistance. I would classify it as "dunkable".
Intentional submersion should be avoided, but I would fully
expect it to survive a drop in a puddle/stream with little or no
water entry. If it does get wet inside, simply disassemble
as much a possible and allow to dry before using again.
Ergonomics: Fits well in the hand and is comfortable.
Easy to use. The switch is easy to click with the thumb
when held in the palm with the bezel end toward the pinkie.
It is a little long for front pocket carry, but it comes
with a belt sheath.
Size compared to a common 2AA aluminum light
Batteries: The light is powered by a pair of AA alkaline
cells. To change the cells, unscrew the tailcap and drop
the old cells out. Replace with 2 new cells, positive first
and replace the tailcap.
Accessories: Included with the light are 2 batteries,
an attached nylon lanyard and a light duty nylon belt
sheath with a velcro fastened cover.
What I Liked: Water resistant,
Tough/impact resistant, Regulated/good battery life,
Good output, Easy battery change, Uses inexpensive AA
cells.
What I Didn't Like: Nothing.
Other Things I Noticed: Slight tint
in the beam from the Luxeon, but this light very effectively
uses a low dome Luxeon to produce a very good spot.
Conclusions: Good output, good
runtime, good construction, cheap batteries, all the
way around this light is a winner. Great for just about
any everyday-type task.
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