14 DAY TRIAL // Flashlights have gone a long way since the first paper-tube based models launched over a hundred or so years ago. However, up until now, most of them relied on batteries in order to work, but it would seem that even that is a thing of the past, since a company called 5.11 Tactical Series has just announced the imminent launch of a revolutionary new type of flashlight that can be used on for up to 135 years, without making use of any batteries.
As FlashlightNews reports, the secret behind the UC3.400 is the fact that there are no batteries within this thing, since they've been replaced by a sophisticated energy management system called FlashPoint Power Technology. This technology is based on ultracapacitors that work together with computer circuitry to efficiently manage how energy is loaded into the flashlight, and then optimize how the energy is dispersed to maximize both performance and runtime. The results are quite impressive, since the flashlight is supposed to fully charge in 90 seconds and to deliver up to 23.5 hours of total runtime (98% uptime) in a 24-hour period.
As mentioned right from the start, the technology used within the UC3.400 allows it to support up to 50,000 charge/discharge cycles with virtually no degradation and no memory, which translates into up to 135 years, one charge per day. The device uses three powerful LEDs, which generate 270 peak lumens in bright mode and 90 lumens in standard mode (as well as a 270-lumen tactical strobe). Moreover, the three LED bulbs on the flashlight are rated for 50,000 hours and never have to be replaced.
The flashlight is also quite tough on the outside, since it's made from a firearm-grade high-strength polymer and it's fully sealed against the elements, as well as abrasion, crack and bend-resistant. It's also fairly easy to carry around, since it measures 11.5 inches (30 cm) in length and weighs around 16 ounces (453 grams).
The device has a retail price starting at around $169.99 (when it becomes available, in early 2009), the sales package including, for now, a 12V DC charging base that plugs into a car, as well as a mounting plate and a belt ring. However, the manufacturer promises that a full line of accessories will also be available separately, including lens filters, flare cones, holsters and an AC adapter.
We are just a few, but there are many of you, Softpedia users, out there. That's why we thought it would be a good idea to create an email address for you to help us a little in finding gadgets we missed. Interesting links are bound to be posted with recognition going mainly to those who submit. The address is 
.