Nuwai 1 Watt ALX-2611X

Provided for review
by the kind folks at:

 
 
4 Stars
Very Good
         

Light Type: Luxeon LED
Light Class: General / Rough Use / Etc.

The Nuwai 1 Watt ALX-2611X is made of aluminum and contains a Luxeon I (low dome) LED driven by one 123A lithium cell 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-2611X 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 a checkered section 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 no noticeable tint at all. 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 3 hours before it really drops off. Not bad at all. Slightly less output than a similarly powered Nuwai Q-III and the Longbow Micra, but more than double the run time.


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 in the hand (almost completely) and is comfortable. Its small size can make it a little awkward to manipulate. The switch is easy to click with the thumb when held in the palm with the bezel end toward the pinkie. Small enough to drop in a large front pocket.


Size compared to a common 2AA aluminum light

Batteries: The light is powered by a single 123A lithium cell. To change the cell, unscrew the tailcap and drop the old cell out. Replace with 1 new cell, 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/very good battery life, Good output, Easy battery change..

What I Didn't Like: Nothing.

Other Things I Noticed: Nothing

Conclusions: Good output, good runtime, good construction, small and easy to carry, all the way around this light is another winner from Nuwai. Great for just about any everyday-type task.

 


Quick Facts Table:

Item Reviewed.......................... Nuwai 1 Watt ALX-2611X
Review Date ............................. June 2005
Case Material ........................... Anodized aluminum
Case Features .......................... Checkered for grip
Case Access Type .................... Unscrew tailcap
Switch Type ............................. Tailcap clickie
Reflector Type ......................... n/a
Lens Type ................................ Internal Reflection Collimator
Bulb Type ................................. Luxeon I low dome LED
Beam Type ............................... Spot
Beam Characteristics ............... Square spot with round corona
Throw (Lux) at 1m (click for description) ~ 440 at beam center. (20.98 Comparison Chart equivalent)
Overall Output (click for description) ~ 1650 (16.50 Comparison Chart equivalent)
Battery / Power Type................ 1 x 123A lithium
Battery Life (advertised) ........... 2.5 hours
Battery Life (test results) ........... 3+ hours to 50% output
Environmental Protection ......... O-ring seals, dunkable
Weight (oz.) with batteries ....... 2.7
Special Items of Note ............... Included belt sheath, batteries, lanyard
Warranty .................................. 30 days from supplier
Retail Cost ................................ 21.50 US$ at time of review at Amondotech.com
 

 

 
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