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The TerraLUX MaxCharger3 TLE-100 is an upgrade bulb
for the MagLite MagCharger rechargeable system. The
replacement module uses a regulating circuit, Luxeon
III LED, and an optics system to produce good output
over a much longer period of time relative to the stock
bulb.
This replacement bulb unit gives good output, is practically
impervious to shock and impacts, and the conversion
is 100% reversible.
The module consists of an anodized aluminum disk as
the "base" for the module. On top of the disk
is the LED, 10 deg. optics, and a foam collar that must
be installed with the module for shock resistance. On
the bottom is the circuit board and the two pins for
contacts.
 
Installation is a breeze. First remove
the bezel ring from the front of the MagCharger, then
remove the reflector and push down on the flanged portion
of the head - it will slip part way down the body. Pull
out the bulb and place the TLE-100 module in its place,
CAREFULLY inserting the pins into the connector. Push
the switch. Don't worry, the circuit is protected from
reverse voltage if you put it in wrong. If the light
does not come on, remove the module, rotate 180 deg.
and reinsert the pins. Try again - this time it should
light. If not, you don't have the pins in the socket.
After getting the module to light, gently
try to turn the module by the aluminum plate and see
if it will rotate. If not, the module WILL be damaged
when you reassemble. The bulb socket should rotate with
the module. If it doesn't, this portion of your MagCharger
has become frozen and you'll need to have it repaired
first.
Pull the flanged portion of the head back
into place, make sure the foam collar is still settled
on the module correctly, and reattach the lens and bezel
ring. The module is a direct replacement for the reflector
and bulb...
When you are done it should look like
this:
What's left to do but turn it on...
...and let it run!
Output is very white, but you lose the ability to focus
the beam, so it is now a fixed-focus light. The optics
do a good job of sending out a fairly tight and very
usable beam. Regulation is very well done, with the
light dropping out of regulation at about 3 hours and
then providing a long tail of diminishing light.
You get longer runtime, but output is less than that
of the standard bulb. According to my readings, you
should see about 1/3 the overall output of the original
bulb, and a significant reduction in throw. As a result,
this replacement module may not be for everyone.
What I Liked: Tough/impact resistant,
Regulated/long battery life, Fairly bright, Easy install
and reversible modification.
What I Didn't Like: Cannot be focused
into a tight spot.
Picky Little Things: None
Conclusions: A good upgrade from
the point of view of making your Mag impact resistant
and regulated with a significant increase in runtime.
You won't get as tight of a beam as is usual for the
MagCharger, but the output is perfect for "administrative
search"-type functions and general use.
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