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Review of Redant Cold Cathode Light by jjswift
Redant Cold Cathode Light
Legend Technology Co., Ltd.
Made in Taiwan
General Info:
Available from: Lik-Sang ($9), other Japan-based online stores for around $10
Lik Sang's website contains several good pictures of this unit.
The description on the back of the box indicates that the unit can be adjusted 5-10 degrees. However, this feature is essentially useless because it is just as easy to tilt the GBA 5-10 degrees.
The optional accessories shown on the back of the box are Car Adaptor, Ni-MH AA Battery Charger, and DC Adaptor.
Power source: GBA Extension Connector or DC Adaptor
Performance:
Unlike most, if not all GBA light accessories, the Redant Cold Cathode Light ("CCL") uses a flourescent light instead of incandescants or LEDs. A reflector helps direct the light toward the screen. Rough testing (see photo) showed bright, uniform illumination. The light itself is not a pure "white" light; in fact, most fluorescent lights have a slight purplish tint. Compared to a modded LS (two white LEDs), the CCL's light is noticably darker.
In low-light conditions, the CCL lights up the screen quite well. It is definitely one of the best out-of-the-box lighting solutions. Compared to the modded LS (see photo), the bottom corners do not get enough light, and there is a large hotspot because of the length of the bulb.
A few features are dreastically needed for this product to stand out as the so-called "best light source." First, it should be redesigned as a shield type. Currently, you have to remove the CCL every time you put away the GBA because it does not fold down. Also, a pass-thru port would be useful for obvious reasons. Finally, there is no on/off switch, which means the only way to turn off the light is to power off the GBA or detach the CCL.
Due to time constraints I did not test the longevity of the light using one pair of AA batteries.
Cons:
No pass-thru link
Does not fold down
No on/off switch
Pros:
Compact and lightweight
Easy to attach and detach
Quality manufacturing
DC Adaptor option: 10V 200mA
--jjswift
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