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Review of Gamester TrapLight
by jjswift
Review of Radica:Gamester TrapLight
Radica China Ltd.
General Info:
Available from popular gaming shops such as Funcoland, Electronics Boutique, Babbages, etc. for about $10. Available online @ gamestop.com.
Power source: 2 AA batteries (external).
Performance:
The TrapLight ("TL") is one of the few GBA light accessories based on the concept of lighting from the sides (as opposed from the top). It is one of the best-looking accessories as well, with a contoured design and rollcage look. It is obvious that Radica has a great marketing team as this product has unique packaging and includes detailed instructions and documentation.
The arms are freely adjustable although they will lock into place once it reaches its intended position. I turned on the light with the GBA unit on and immediately noticed two things: 1) the bulbs used are incandescants, and 2) the light was inadequate even though there were two bulbs. I then tried to adjust the arms closer to each other, but was unable to do so because they were locked into place.
Next, I examined the lights themselves, which are incandescants mounted behind a transparent piece of plastic. A reflector helps direct the light toward the screen. The lights do not illuminate the whole screen. Basically there are two large spots of light, and the center of the screen lacks adequate light. There is more light than the photo demonstrates, but not much more. Used as a supplemental light (e.g. if the room has reasonable lighting), the TL provides adequate light. In low-light or no-light conditions, the TL is not very good, because of the non-uniformity of the light.
Due to time constraints I did not test the longevity of the light using one pair of AA batteries.
Pros:
GBA extention connector is still accessible
High quality design and manufacturing
External battery power
Cons:
In "down" position, TL arms can be a nuisance
Very difficult to remove
Mod Notes:
This product will be easier to mod than the Logic3 Advance Light. After removing the Phillips screws, it should be easy to take apart. The wires and reflector are very accessible (see photo).
--jjswift
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