Burning Bright's topics - tribe.net

great sites for LEDs and other lights

2008-05-14T20:03:29Z

here's the one I have used when throw my rave parties(I know you guys don't like ravers) out here in SD.....have use them many times never had any issues

/www.flashingblinkylights.com

posted in Burning Bright - 21 replies

bad experience

2008-04-08T20:06:35Z

I ordered, got my stuff pretty quick, but all my lights are making a horrible buzzing noise. Maybe all defective, cannot reach them by phone no answer and mailbox if full and no response via e-mail. Do not use vibelights unless you have to. I'm bummed I will not have proper lighting for the playa due to this company. If I hear from them by the end of the day today I may be able to resolve this before I leave and I will post, or else I have a bunch of bad lights I can't use that I spent money on, that can't be returned in time ...not happy about this.

posted in Burning Bright - 16 replies

Trouble shooting my El wire

2008-04-04T03:55:18Z

My EL Wire setup that I had put on my trike temporarily with zip ties stopped working when I flipped it back wards on a hill.
http://people.tribe.net/59656aad-c311-4f1f-bc1b-a298332b7274/photos/ce7241ed-0b09-480c-ad34-32275b985109

I didn't have the battery box fastened down real good and I wonder when I flipped if the wire broke where the zip tie was. Since I didn't have the battery box supported with the zip ties It was dangling from the EL wire and zip tie location( if that makes sense). I don't think it's the power supply because it still has a glowing red led light.

This is what I was running...
http://www.elbestbuy.com/shle2.html

But, wouldn't their be some glow if it was broken before the point it was broken? Since this is my first experience3 with EL wire I have no clue how it works as I bought pre fabed as in link above. (plug and play)

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

lighting challenge: stylng in the dark, playa vanity table

2008-04-01T02:14:57Z

we were discussing this over in Playalicious Playwear and agent orange had the good idea to bring it here. :)

Scenario:
You're on the playa or at a regional and you suddenly find that you the sun has gone down, and yikes! you still need to do your costume hair and makeup. Maybe you need to put a wig on, maybe you have some elaborate headpiece thing, maybe you want to paint your whole face, maybe you just want to do some quick eye makeup. Whatever the case, it's now dark and you need:
(a) a mirror of some type,
(b) a light source that's both bright enough and positioned well so it doesn't cast shadows on your face,
(c) some kind of setup to hold them both steady and free up your hands.

Here are some of the ideas so far, maybe you want to elaborate on them or come up with something else entirely:

1) Lighted make up mirror, inverter, alligator clipped to a 12v battery, solar charger for the battery during the daytime
2) a good make-up mirror with built-in light and a portable power pack, or a battery-powered illuminated mirror
3) get in the car and hang up a head lamp
4) A battery operated lighted make up mirror that you can clip somewhere in your tent, like a car visor mirror
5) a little TV-dinner folding table for makeup, a cheap full-length mirror, overhead light and a battery-operated lantern or two
6) some battery operated twinkle lights as a frame around a regular mirror
7) make your self a little LED lit make up mirror, using 8 or so white or cream led in sequence, run it of a 12v dolfin battery
8) an eight inch, 5x mirror wth sucky cups on the back, clip on a two pack of cool put anywhere LED lights with high and low settings, stack a couple of containers as a table

Questions to consider:
- how does one affix an overhead light? what kind of light do you use?
- how long can you power the lights or lightup mirror like that without needing a new battery or recharge?
- what's the smallest, most portable solution?
- what's the best or most elaborate setup?

So what do you brainiacs suggest? What sounds best to you? ready, get set, go!

posted in Burning Bright - 7 replies

uses for dead glow bracelets

2008-04-01T02:11:59Z

a topic in 2008 Virgins sparked this idea. Someone asked about gifting, which brought up the LED vs. Glow debate. I'd rather see people buy some glow bracelets if they're going to gift illumination. They can be used for everything from bike and tent markers, to people and bag illumination. Since they can wrap around or through most things they are more useful than a standard stick.

Which led me to the belief that glow bracelets (not sticks) can actually be used in a number of ways, even when the glow is gone. Making them more eco-friendly than glow sticks or dollar blinkies that can't/won't be reused*. Here are two ideas I had right off the top of my head for reusing dead glow bracelets.

1) fixing the broken toilet paper dispenser in the potties when the glow has worn out (I can't tell you how many times I've done this)

2) wrap colored tape around them in different designs (like a hula hoop) and still use them as bracelets when they're done (which you can then re-gift to fellow burners)

What can you think of? How can we reduce and reuse?

[* see my post from last year for a trial run proving this]

posted in Burning Bright - 11 replies

LEDs and Art Projects

2008-03-22T21:32:12Z

Bad-Dawg posted about this in his blog, thought I'd share here. From the folks at MIT:

Ultraluminous LED Light and Art Projects
http://web.mit.edu/neltnerb/www/artwork/index.html
scroll down for pics

"The idea of using LED fixtures with artwork has been explored in a variety of settings, but is still a fairly new area of art exploration...
We are seeing the cusp of this curve even now, as architects are including LED based lighting into buildings, and a few artists are beginning to use LED lighting in their work. The purpose of this project is to further expand and enable the use of LED lighting in artwork by providing theoretical information, and information from my own experiences producing artwork of this sort."

there's a good amount of tech info for those who are interested in trying something like this.

posted in Burning Bright - 1 reply

inspiration for LED & EL for clothing

2008-03-19T00:55:16Z

wanted to share this great site I recently found. I have no idea how I came across it.

Enlighted: http://enlighted.com/pages/gallery.shtml

Scroll down and explore the whole gallery and secondary links. Some amazing stuff there. Very sophisiticated use of sequencing and lights on some of the custom work. I'm particularly fond of the Daft Punk helmets, the Ferrari/Marlboro racing suits, the lightup leopard coat and the trim on the Snowball Dress. It's nice to see what can be done other than simply outlining a hat or bag. And some of the sequencing options are pretty amazing IMO.

posted in Burning Bright - 1 reply

Just for bikes...

2008-03-12T22:29:10Z

Can anyone provide some links directly to lights specifically to put on bike wheels?

And another question...

How early should you order glowsticks, bracelets and necklaces before BM? I don't want anything to do bad...

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

Headlamps?

2008-03-12T16:22:46Z

So I'm thinking about getting a headlamp. I'm not looking to buy one specifically for Burning Man, but I'm sure it'll come in pretty handy while I'm there. I figured it's an item that probably a few burners rely on at night on the playa, at least at their camp. So I thought I'd ask if anyone has any suggestions for good brands or specific models. I'm talking around $20, nothing fancy needed. When it comes to headlamps, does price really dictate how long it will last? I know if I'm paying 50 cents it's probably not the best quality, but would a $10 headlamp do just as good a job as the $20+ headlamps? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank ya!

posted in Burning Bright - 13 replies

the countdown begins, what are you doing?

2008-02-27T08:09:28Z

about 200 days til Burning Man, about 75 days til regional season begins.
I figure this is the time of year when people start planning their projects and making their lists. so what do you have on your drawing board? what's on your must-make/must-buy list? are you thinking about practical don't-run-me-over illumination or an art piece?

posted in Burning Bright - 6 replies

ROPE LIGHTS: standard, LED, and how to power them

2008-02-21T01:09:12Z

sparked by the Lighting Safety thread, here is the info I compiled recently from my wonderful fellow AZ burner folks on using rope lights. I know nothing about powering anything larger than my hand on the playa so I picked their brains. Feel free to add your own advice.

SUMMARY
LED rope light can be as much as double the cost of standard rope light (which runs off miniature incandescent bulbs). However, LED rope light is reported to last longer, run cooler, and use less wattage.

Rope lights come in 12 volt or 120 volt. I've been told both LED and standard rope light can be run off a 12 volt battery through the use of an inverter. A switch can be added easily to turn it on/off.

ALTERNATE POWER
You can charge the battery itself with a small solar panel, then use the battery at night to run the rope lights. Or you can try the solar powered rope lights. I saw some on eBay and on http://www.wiedamark.com/

Kayobi said he's used these successfully:
"I own a string of Weidamark's rope solar powered LED lights and they work fine. They also convert nicely to a plug for winter months, though you have to DIY. http://www.wiedamark.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=625 "

BATTERY USE
from Gary:
"Rope lights do not use a lot of power, most of it in 12 volt is less than 2 watts per foot. However an inverter does require some extra power from the battery to convert 12 volts DC to 120 AC. The most efficient way is to buy 12 volt rope light and power it directly from the battery. Simply do an ebay or google search for 12 volt rope light."

POWER CONSUMPTION & CYCLING
from Blank:
"I agree that LEDs are inherently DC, but the AC versions have a cool side effect... less powerconsumption. The eye doesn't need continuous light.. on and off, switched fast enough, works just fine (the television and film industry are grateful for this). While I haven't actually tried it, I think that the 50% of the 'off' time for LEDS
using AC source will more than overcome the inefficiencies of converting the 12v battery to 120AC using a $15 120Watt inverter. "

MORE COMPLEX, BUT MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT SET-UP:
from Master Twist:
"LEDs are inherently DC devices. 120VAC rope lights are designed to use the 120V, but not the AC. They only conduct during half the AC cycle (unless there is a bridge rectifier inline with the LED string). Rectifier or not, the rope will work just ducky on DC power provided the voltage is sufficient.

What does this mean? It means you could power the rope on a 12V battery using a simple (cheap) boost-flyback circuit to crank the voltage to 120VDC. The LEDs will actually glow more evenly without any 60 or 120 Hz "strobe" effect.

Some simple modification of the rope would allow you to run it off 12V as well. This basically involves turning a single long 120V rope into ten short 12V ropes with some wire and a soldering iron. Hit me up OL if you want to experiment. "

posted in Burning Bright - 1 reply

some green lighting links

2008-02-21T01:08:29Z

How to size a solar system
http://www.absak.com/design/load.html

How to buy a used solar panel
http://www.otherpower.com/otherpower_solar_used.html

All you may ever need to know about lead-acid batteries
http://www.windsun.com/Batteries/Battery_FAQ.htm

A good overview of LED details
http://www.theledlight.com/technical1.html

DIY DC lighting dimmer
http://solorb.com/elect/pwm/pwm1/

posted in Burning Bright - 1 reply

LET US NOT FORGET 1-31-01!!!

2008-02-07T21:46:45Z

http://people.tribe.net/crosssidhe/photos/41fdf088-b551-473c-9361-be878371516c

A Day to Remember!!!

Cross

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

BLING BLING Wheels

2008-01-13T18:01:18Z

http://www.boingboing.net/2008/01/07/pimpstar-animated-wh.html

$15,950 hokey spokes??

http://www.hokeyspokes.com/

posted in Burning Bright - 6 replies

Merry Xmas for high-voltage freaks

2007-12-04T21:11:47Z

http://tesladownunder.com/Xmas.htm

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

backed up some info for the tribe

2007-11-10T03:14:04Z

FYI since Tribe.net seems to be circling the drain faster everyday I've backed up several of the threads here so the info isn't lost. (in other words I copy-pasted the contents of the thread into a text file, making sure the links were intact).

I've also set up a back up site for Burning Bright should Tribe go under completely. Details are below if you want to sign up.

---------------------------

I've created a new network called Tribe Refugees. http://triberefugees.ning.com/
It's an alternate place for Tribe members to gather and keep in touch, form discussion groups, and share pics and blogs. Signing up is quick and easy. You can edit your profile later to add more info, photo albums, video, etc.

Within that network I've created a subsection (called a Group) to support this tribe: http://triberefugees.ning.com/group/burnbright
You'll need to join the Tribe Refugees network to have access to the Burn Bright group.

- What's this about? -
The thing most of us love about Tribe.net is the various discussion groups. Unfortunately other social networking sites out there like MySpace and Facebook seem to be lacking this. So through the awesomeness of Ning.com I've created a alternate resource for fellow Tribe members that offers the friending and commenting of things like MySpace, while still focusing on discussion through forums and groups.

-- How does this work? --
I've put the framework in place, but members will help shape the site by developing forum categories and groups. The more people that join, the more valuable a resource Tribe Refugees will become. :) If you just want to use Tribe Refugees as a place to keep track of your current Tribe contacts, that's fine too. You can create a profile and then add friends to keep everyone in one place. :)

-- Why another network? --
As some of you have noticed, Tribe.net has been on a steady decline for some time now. Outages are becoming more frequent and longer in duration. The staff has ceased to read or reply to any help or bug tribes. There's little-to-no news from the staff regarding stability, structure, or future plans. As much as I love Tribe it seems clear that an alternate venue is needed, even if just as a safety net. If Tribe were to go under very few of us would have a way to keep in touch with our Tribe friends and acquaintances. We'd also lose the great discussion groups we value.

posted in Burning Bright - 0 replies

so you're back! whadya learn? tell us.

2007-11-02T17:39:38Z

I hope you all had a uberawesometastic burn. :) We all tend to cram the info before the burn, then drop it until next year when we're left reinventing the wheel and trying to remember all those helpful lessons we swore we'd write down from the last year. So I thought it would be great to instead share the info now, while it's still fresh.

what did you learn? what worked for you? what didn't? what kept breaking? what was easy to repair? what were you happy you bought? what do you wish you hadn't? what will you do different next year? what are your next plans?

do tell.

posted in Burning Bright - 22 replies

anyone light up for Halloween?

2007-11-02T17:05:31Z

any cool ween creations or recycling done for your costumes? share some pics and details. :)

posted in Burning Bright - 0 replies

Tiny LED lights for bikes...

2007-10-22T22:34:19Z

I'm curious about the multi-colored lights that I saw on LOTS of bikes. They were small, bright lights; if I had to name them I'd call them "fairy lights." I'm not sure if they were strings or iciles or what.

I'm not sure why I didn't just stop someone and ask! And I didn't take any pics, either!

posted in Burning Bright - 4 replies

Where do I start?

2007-10-16T16:42:05Z

I've never owned el wire before, have never soddered anything (though I know the concept), am not particularly mechanically inclined... but I have a fierce desire to get into el wire and light! on the playa.

So where do I start?

posted in Burning Bright - 10 replies

Fwd(phillyburn): looking for...

2007-09-19T00:54:16Z

does anyone know about these small LED lights that last for about 2 wks (?) and are started by tearing off a piece of tape. i heard about them over the wknd but can't find them online.

posted in Burning Bright - 0 replies

VibeLights Sux!!!

2007-09-17T21:33:59Z

VibeLight Sux!!!!

I had many problems with my VibeLights EL Wire. All the boxes buzzed. I have other EL Wire stuff and they do not buzz unless you use cheap batteries or the batteries are low. I had trouble with my order. They could not be reached and did not return my phone calls or e-mails.

One of the biggest pevs I had was the colors. I ordered Red, Violet, and Blue EL Wire. The Red was more like orange. The Violet and Blue had way too much white in it. On their web site they showed deep colors but their colors where not deep. I am a Burner and I know what EL Wire suppose to look like. They gave me cheap crap.

Other problems I had was the quality of the workmenship. All of ht EL Wire I bought were just thorn together. I had to be very careful not to break it.

Another problem is that the switch did not work. Each box had two function: straight and blink. On some fo the EL Wire I bought from them one of the functions would work. I am not going to use them again. For next Burn I will try using Cool Neon.

Cross Sidhe

posted in Burning Bright - 0 replies

VibeLights.com

2007-09-17T21:20:15Z

Have anyone done business with them?

http://www.vibelights.com/index.html

Cross

posted in Burning Bright - 15 replies

PRODUCT REVIEW: LIGHTSTICKS (EL and LED / Streetlight, Krill and more)

2007-09-13T19:24:40Z

I'm sorry I'm posting this so late, been buried with work. hopefully this isn't too late to help some folks.
I did a test on a bunch of different kinds of battery powered lightsticks, including Streetlights and Krill, ranging from $2 to $30. I took photos and notes. The results are below, with links to pics.

ABOUT THE TEST:
I purchased the brightest model of each stick, in the brightest color available (which happened to be green) for more of an apples-to-apples comparison. The exception being the ilumix (far right) which only has one model and was only available in red at the time.

ABOUT BRIGHTNESS AND BATTERY LIFE:
I found there's a correlation between the brightness of the sticks (whether LED or EL) and the battery life -- the brighter the output, the more frequent the battery changes. And of course, the dimmer the light, the fewer battery changes needed.

ABOUT EL VS. LED:
All the lights here are LEDs except the Krill, which is EL. LEDs are inherently brighter than even the brightest EL, so comparing the 2 is a bit difficult.

ABOUT PURCHASING:
Most lights can be found for low prices when bought in bulk (10-50). All lights except the Krill can be purchased at most online light or "rave" stores (check out the post with recommended sources). The Krill is made by Kriana and with rare excpetions is available only through http://www.kriana.com/pages/howtochoose.html Their customer service was excellent when I dealt with them and they had quick shipping.

SUMMARY:
Overall I'd rank the Krill as best, followed by the Streetlight, then the Happy Camper, with the ilumix coming in a distant last.

------ AN OVERVIEW OF THE STICKS -----

VIEW ALL STICKS HERE: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/da63b519-c5d3-4642-b581-ba22e99a98c8
VIEW STICKS ILLUMINATED HERE: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/8f1da512-74a6-46d6-8d18-8d1c862c193a

-------------------------
1) STREETLIGHT
see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/27f05e90-e1fd-4094-b690-6af67d3094d3

model tested: Super Streetlight (brighter than standard)
other models: also comes in standard brightness

color tested: fluorescent green (stated to be the brightest of the super lights)
other colors: Super streetlights also come in blue, white and regular green. Standard comes in a huge range of colors, including tri-color.

price: $9 - $15
size: many stores say 8 inches, but it actually measures 7.5 inches
lights: 3 LEDs
mode: 3 modes: steady, strobe (blinks off/on), chase (lights run up and down stick)

ring hole: 2, one at top and one at bottom (see pic here: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/289d3cbd-1a6b-4e74-b4a5-95216b5f5112 )
switch: sturdy rubber click switch near top. There's a possibility of it being accidentally depressed when in a bag, but I haven't encountered that so far.

benefit:
Bright light. Pretty sturdy (I dropped it from waist height onto concrete and it was fine, but I wouldn't go slamming it into things). The alternate modes in a single stick are handy and can be easily changed by repeatedly pressing the switch.
downside:
The batteries are hard to find (I went to 3 drugstores, with no luck) and the batteries are expensive. Judging by similar sizes sold the batteries come in packs of 3, for about $7 a pack. The stick needs 4 batteries so that's about $10 per change, which is almost as much as the stick itself. That means after only your first change (and you'll need at least 3, see below) this is a $25 item, making the seemingly low initial cost not much a value. You could get a Krill for that price.

batteries: 4, 357A size
battery life: Stated to last 10hrs. I found my fading after the first use, but that may be due to the poor quality of the retailer used. Standard version may last longer. Using strobe or chase modes should lengthen the life of the battery. Using steady mode will use more power from the battery.

battery replacement:
see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/909dc4f5-2b57-40a8-9849-2acff4866715
2 pieces. Standard small screwdriver needed. Fairly easy to get the batteries in and out once open, but the screw stripped after first use. This was really meant to be a club light and I can't see a battery change being done in the dark, during winds, or while moving. Unless you're in your tent/RV with another light source changing the batteries isn't very playa-friendly. And if you're out on the playa for the full week you'd need to change them at least 3 times according to the battery life stated.

-------------------------
2) KRILL LIGHT

PICS ON DIFFERENT MODELS HERE:
180 vs. 360 degree (off): http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/7164d63c-f78e-4487-8457-231544cbff28
180 vs. 360 degree (on): http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/309b6786-9496-4ea8-9d8f-889e17fd88c7
regular vs. extreme: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/ecc8111d-81ce-43ca-b99e-db9db6391a43

model tested: tested 3 different options in the standard size -- original and extreme (brightness), 180 and 360 (coverage), regular and strobe (mode) -- my preferred model is the Extreme 360 steady
other models: also available in mini size (6 inches, 2 AAA) and torch size (14 inches, 6 AA)

color tested: green (stated to be the brightest)
other colors: also comes in blue, orange, white and yellow. According to the site red is only about 50% as bright as green, other colors are about 70% as bright as green.

price: $25-$30
size: 5.5 inches
lights: 1 strip of EL tape
mode: available in steady OR strobe, not both (each light only does one or the other)

ring hole: 1 large hole at top (see pic here: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/289d3cbd-1a6b-4e74-b4a5-95216b5f5112 )
switch: turn bottom ring slightly to turn on/off (same piece that unscrews for batteries). I was initially concerned this might be easily knocked on in a bag, but in practice that seems unlikely.

benefit:
Sturdy and impact resistant. EL is not as bright as LEDs, but the extreme version (my preferred) still had decent brightness. This is the only stick of the group that can utilize rechargeable batteries. Also the only one that can stand up on it's end, which is really helpful when you're using the light on the ground or table as a marker. The company also sells little clips with stakes attached so you can stake the krill into the ground, as well as magnetic clips.
downside:
Heavier than all other lights due to the batteries. The price appears to be the most obvious deterrent, but actually the Krill ends up be the most economical after the battery changes (see Streetlight). Can't change modes, have to buy a strobe version or a steady version.

batteries: 2 AA batteries (for all options in standard size)
battery life: depends on model/option -- original: 120 hours, extreme: 50 hours, strobing: lasts 95% longer than original

battery replacement:
see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/5d7ecb47-ebff-49b8-a0e5-e975e819f414
1 piece. No screwdriver needed, simply unscrew bottom stand. Easy to do in the dark or while moving. Easy to find AA size anywhere, even likely that a camp neighbor may have one.

-------------------------
3) HAPPY CAMPER LIGHT STICK
(also called Reusable LED lightstick, or Military lightstick)
see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/124aa0fa-668e-4918-8183-d06f741d4aca

color tested: yellow/green (stated to be the brightest color)
other colors; blue, red, white and rainbow

price: $2-$8
size: 6.75 inches
lights: 1 LED
mode: 1, steady (the Rainbow version alternates colors)

ring hole: none. There's no drilled hole to attach the light to a string or carabiner. It only has a pen-like clip, the kind of think you'd use to keep something in your shirt pocket. I tried several different ways of running a ring or strip under the clip, but they all fell out eventually. You'd need to wind tape around this to hang it anywhere.
switch: top clicker switch (like a pen)

benefit:
Pretty bright for something so cheap. Lightweight. You can also take the bottom tube off and use the LED as a mini flashlight (see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/2a15086d-e735-4e0a-af83-3b07c268858f )
downside:
Fairly fragile. Almost broke or cracked it twice in regular use. Most important problem: the battery change (see below) which realistically makes this a one-use stick. "Reusable" is used very loosely here IMO. However, it's still better than a chemical snap-n-shake glowstick because it can be turned off when not needed, or used as a flashlight. If you do find a way to change the batteries easily and frequently the cost may end up killing the initial low price (see Streetlight).

batteries: 3, AG-13 size
battery life: one company states up to 50hrs of use, but from my use of it I'm hesitant to believe that. You can probably get several nights use out of it though.

battery replacement:
see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/6f96cc81-791f-492e-b25e-64a710536698
4-6 depending on your luck, no screwdriver needed, but easy to break any number of pieces. The 3 batteries are jammed in the tube and very hard to get out without dislodging the light itself and critical copper stick. Two of us spent 20 minutes -- in the brightly lit comfort of home -- with tweezers and tape trying to get the light operational again after a trial battery change, then just gave up and called it dead. All the pieces would eventually fit back together and we could even get the LED running off the batteries outside of the tube, but once it was reassembled no amount of trial and error could get it working again. I can't imagine any possibility of changing the batteries while on playa. This is a one-use stick.

-------------------------
4) ILUMIX LED STICK
see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/e4166827-e40d-4328-962a-ff0b185bcfdc

color tested: red (green was sold out)
other colors: comes in a variety of basic colors

price: $2-$5
size: 6 inches
lights: 1 LED
mode: 1, steady

ring hole: small one at the top
switch: flimsy slide switch that easily gets knocked into ON position at the slightest touch, wasting batteries when it's stored. It's just as easily knocked into OFF position when you're trying to use it (see here for pic http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/4596a910-e692-4012-b6ca-72c7b879c653 )

benefit:
Really couldn't find any. This isn't even worth the low price IMO.
downside:
You get what you pay for. The light is really weak, a $2 keychain light from the hardware store would be better. Even assuming that the green version would be brighter, I still found this to be crap. Then there's the absurd battery change (see below) which makes this realistically a one-use stick, if that. This is touted as a raver light for poi/glowsticking. Not only is the light weak and easily switched off while in use, I can't see this lasting through an impact. Or even being sat on. Seriously, I'd just use a a chemical snap-n-shake glowstick instead.

batteries: stated to run on 2 CR-1220 batteries (with 4 screws I didn't bother to check)
battery life: wasn't stated

battery replacement:
see here for pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/c131d097-5971-461e-bdf7-030a8705895e
4 tiny screws. Yes, 4. And they're even smaller than standard smalls. Special screwdriver needed. I didn't even try to replace this one. It wasn't worth it for such a crap light.

posted in Burning Bright - 4 replies

Illuminati Parade at BM this year

2007-08-21T16:26:42Z

A parade for all you illuminated junkies out there. Mohammmeds Mini Martini and Erotica Camp on the 9 o'clock keyhole will host a cocktail party and parade to the Man on burn night starting at 8 PM. Passing between the art cars and the crowd we will see and be seen until the Big Man gets lit. After the man falls the Shiva Vista stage near 6 o'clock will be the spot to dance your lit asses off to the sounds of DJ Johnno.

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

Can? how ? to you run an electric blanket off a large battery?

2007-08-18T00:50:44Z

I have a health condition that leaves me feeling cold all of the time. I am wanting to bring an electric blanket to the playa but I don't have a generator. Questions: Is it possible to run an electric blanket off of a battery. If so what type size baterry should I purchase? and how would I rrig it up? . I have a converter of sorts but that allows you to connect a battery on one end as a power source and then plug somethin in on the other end but I was not sure what size battery to try with this nor how long this could last. Also how would one recharge the battery? would a regular car battery charger work? Thank you Glitter

posted in Burning Bright - 8 replies

Workshops at BM?

2007-08-14T20:38:48Z

Hey ya all!

I was wondering if there are any camps at Burning Man who are doing workshops/events on EL Wire and LED wiring and whatever goes along with creating your own light projects? I would love to attend a preburning man workshop but they are too far away and I woufully lack any electrician wiring knowledge and haven't discovered my natural talent for it, (I know it's lying around here somewhere....) :)

Muchas Gracias!

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

EL Wire Classes???

2007-08-14T06:09:02Z

Does anyone know if anyone is offering EL Wire classes in the SF Bay Area. I would love to learn the basics. I mean I have seen some awesome EL Wire costumes. I want to know how to do it to.

Cross

posted in Burning Bright - 6 replies

LED workshops

2007-08-13T17:47:12Z

Next Sunday, at my house (middletown OH, 45042) there will be an LED workshop from noon to 6pm. Contact me for directions. Bring your own AA batteries. Get rechargeable if you can, but a single set of just about any good AA cells should last you all week. Lights will need 2, 3, 4, or 8 depending on color and size of the display. I'll have free stuff, but if you have a large project, or want to use some of the super blinkers, some small cash will be needed. The blinkers and exotics (pink, purple, UV) are $0.50 each. Battery holders will be a buck.

All of the leftovers will go to the playa where I will host an LED workshop at Mad-Science Camp, 3:00 on the Esplanade, Monday at noon in our dome, and Wed. at noon, (if there are any supplies left over from Monday). I will have LEDs, battery holders, wire and such, you must bring your own batteries. Remember, all the holders I'm bringing will be for AA cells.

Everything that gets to the Playa is a gift, so bring snacks or drinks to share, and we'll light some things up!

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

Cheap inverter

2007-08-13T12:47:13Z

I was in a local (New Zealand) hardware store and noticed a cheap (NZD40 = USD30) 100W inverter that plugs into a car lighter socket (so could be easily hacked to run off any 12V source). I didn't instantly grab it as I've spent too many "just $40" recently - and nothing I'm doing needs an inverter. I'm guessing you have the same kit available in the US at a similar price??

(I'm thinking that for some apps, a 20W compact fluorescent bulb running off an inverter is more efficient than a low voltage lamp?)

posted in Burning Bright - 5 replies

12v battery + LEDs - electrical setup help?

2007-08-12T23:51:24Z

Can one of you electrically inclined burners give me a little help with a simple electrical system?

I have purchased two of these: http://www.plasmaled.com/high_power_module.htm

And want to power them with this: http://tinyurl.com/355fxa

Controlled by a switch: http://tinyurl.com/2ezp56

Can anyone tell me how to connect the 12v battery to the switch, and then to the lights (and what gauge wire - the lights come wired into 26, but would 24 or 22 do)? Since the lights only pull 1 watt, I figure it would be okay to power them off the same battery, and the switch load should amply cover the draw - or am I mistaken? Do I need some kind of "buffer" between the battery and the lights (although the LED page says they come pre-wired into a resistor)?

Thanks!

posted in Burning Bright - 7 replies

LED workshop

2007-08-12T23:34:52Z

A last min. chance to get some cool lights on your stuff. A workshop at my house, from noon to 6pm on Sun Aug 19.
I'll have wire, LEDs, switches and battery holders. You bring ideas. We'll makes some pretty things.

I'm in Middletown OH between Cincinnati and Dayton. 45042 Contact me for details.

posted in Burning Bright - 0 replies

Hey!!! Check this out!!!

2007-08-06T04:26:37Z

I got this from the BM Tribe.

http://www.willitblend.com/videos.aspx?type=unsafe&video=glowsticks

=:)

C-

posted in Burning Bright - 6 replies

Flying

2007-08-04T05:05:07Z

Just wondered if anyone's had hassles flying with electrical art creations in their checked baggage. They would look a bit dodgy on X-ray, I suspect.

I'll tell them at check-in what I've got...

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

solder

2007-08-03T01:29:21Z

Last night I started using a slightly thicker gauge of rosin-core solder and had a much harder time working with it, than I had with other kinds. At the moment, I'm playing around with 2.5mm high bright wire for a new wearable project. What kinds/gauges of solder do you all use?

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

Anyone know...

2007-07-26T22:12:17Z

the Code for the burner discount on Coolneon.com?

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

ooh! cheap camp light: 24 LEDs

2007-07-26T18:26:35Z

see album pic: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningbright/photos/15603a33-b22f-410b-934b-30b8cf7084c4

24 LEDs (wow!), hook in the back for hanging, runs on 4 AA, supposedly up to 30hrs, 2 settings, under $10 in most places. For that price it's probably cheaper and easier than making something similar.

I think this is the light Dusty Nipples was talking about in another tribe (Dusty?). Seems like a great cheap way to light up the tent or meal area at night. Maybe even bright enought to use as a makeup light at night (I'm still trying to resolve that).

I found it online at these sources:
http://dealspl.us/24-LED-Portable-Camping-Light_56231
http://cgi.ebay.com/LED-Camping-Light-24-LED-Lights-with-2-settings_W0QQitemZ120128986958QQcmdZViewItem
http://www.meritline.com/24-leds-camping-light.html
http://www.lunarloot.com/blog.php?dat=197

or google "24 LED light ring" or "24 LED camping light"

if you try it out, please give us your review of it. :)

posted in Burning Bright - 6 replies

Flashlights & lanterns

2007-07-19T20:48:51Z

http://www.brightguy.com/
....is a good site.

check out this finger light:
http://www.brightguy.com/products/Millite_Finger_Light_White_LED.php

along with a good selection of shake and wind up flashlights (the good ones)
http://www.brightguy.com/results.php?Search=keyword&Keyword=Y

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

Cheap Places to Get Glow in a Hurry

2007-07-19T06:30:28Z

I know some of us have our favorite websites for glow on the cheap. However, what if you need glow ASAP with out paying high prices for unreliable sticks. For me I go to the DOLLAR TREE. The DOLLAR TREE is a $1 store. They usually have the follow packs of glow sticks:

Pack of 2 Neckless and 2 or 4 Braclets (All Same Color). Violet, Green, Magenta, Orange, Yellow.

Pack of 2 Tri-Color Neckless. These are the thick ones.

Pack of 2 Thick Deep Color Neckless. Great if you are looking for Deep Red.

Pack of 6 Braclets (All Same Color). Violet, Green, Magenta, Orange, Yellow.

Old School Glow Stick Tubes. One in pack. Comes with thick cord to tie down or to go around your neck. Violet, Green, Magenta, Orange, Yellow.

Glow Stick Balls (Braclets that assembe into al ball)

Sometimes they have a very think and bulky "Rainbow" band braclet. They are make of different color braclets that are held together. These band are very hard to get on. Even with help and are very bulky.

Some DOLLAR TREEs have Glow hearts, stars and other shapes. The are on a string to be used an a neckless.

Also some DOLLAR TREEs have blinkies. Blinky everything from rings, to necklesses, to ink pens.

Nice part is they they usually have them in stock in bulk.

Cross 4.0

posted in Burning Bright - 7 replies

"Flaming" light strands

2007-07-19T03:47:36Z

I'm looking for strands of lights (Christmas lights), that flicker like flames. I think they are usually called amber flicker if they are LED. I'd prefer LED for lower power consumption, but they don't have to be. If anyone knows a place where I can find something decent along these lines, please let me know.

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

=:)

2007-07-18T02:06:27Z

I guess this is the Tribe for "Bright" Ideas!!!

=:)

C-

posted in Burning Bright - 1 reply

so how green ARE those LEDs?

2007-07-17T00:50:59Z

(transferring from a prior post)

In theory LEDs (blinkies) can be less wasteful than glow because they allow battery replacement, but I'd like to see how well it can/will be put into practice. :) I'll be trying different kinds of toys and devices and posting the results here. I encourage you to share your own findings, everything from badges to glow cups. Tell us what worked, what didn't, which devices were easiest, etc.

#1: FLASHING BIKE REFLECTOR-STYLE CLIPS

In the past I've replaced batteries on the little flashing bike-reflector type of LEDs, the ones that have a plastic clip molded to the back (not a pin or magnet). These are usually about 2" wide and come in star or heart shapes. Reviving these actually wasn't so bad. Like the jelly blinkys it takes time, but there were fewer parts and less batteries. It ended up being about the same cost to buy new batteries as to get a new blinky, but overall less waste in the end.

#2: JELLY LEDs

I took apart an old jelly bracelet. Here are some samples of what I mean:
www.virginiatoy.com/Urchin-B...21ot1.htm
www.virginiatoy.com/Urchin-F...22ot2.htm
www.virginiatoy.com/Spike-Fl...23ot2.htm

I found you *can* replace the batteries on most "jelly" LEDs like the ones above, however it's neither economical nor practical. They typically use 3 batteries (the rings may only use 1 or 2) so the cost of replacing the batteries is actually more than buying a new item. It's also very tedious and time consuming to remove the blinking unit and change the batteries.

Items like these have a clicker on/off mechanism, where you have to squeeze the item to turn it on/of, as opposed to a switch that slides side to side. This means springs. Tiny, tiny springs held by tiny, tiny screws. These just hold the clicker switch. It's an effort to get the screws out without losing the springs. Once you do, you then have to remove another tiny, tiny screw which holds the actual battery housing. Once you get the old batteries out and new ones in, without losing the tiny plastic film around them, you then have to put everything back together again. More tiny, tiny screws and tiny, tiny springs. It took about 12 tries to get the little clicker screws aligned in their holes so they could be tightened.

In order to get the blinking unit out you have to slice through the jelly ball with an exacto. You don't have to make a big incision to slide the unit out and it slides back in easily. The cut isn't noticeable, especially at night. But I can only see the jelly item withstanding 2 or 3 battery changes at most before it falls apart.

posted in Burning Bright - 24 replies

Repairing EL wire

2007-07-14T06:03:24Z

Does anyone have references to a "soldering EL wire for dummies" type reference?

One of the EL units I used for some light-up furry jackets detached from it's driver. I'd like to re-solder it, *plus* I'd really like to heavilly re-enforce all of my EL units somehow, so that the join is more durable on the playa. It sucks to suddenly go dark. :-(

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

A NEW video

2007-07-10T01:29:02Z

of L3K in 2006
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJGbExDtF-E

posted in Burning Bright - 1 reply

projects

2007-07-10T00:38:41Z

Here are some links to some of my projects:

http://www.1sky.com/hkt/index.html (mechanical design by Gaspo)
http://www.skellington.com/photo/bman/bm02/sts/pics/sts_454118.jpg
http://leonardo.info/gallery/burningman_fire/black.html
http://www.skellington.com/photo/bman/bm03/madsci/vof_2.jpg
this one needs updating:
http://www.quantalink.com/artindex.html

posted in Burning Bright - 6 replies

luminous fabric

2007-07-07T15:53:41Z

http://www.luminex.it/

posted in Burning Bright - 4 replies

mini smoke machine

2007-07-07T02:14:17Z

I'm building art decorations for my bike at BM. Part of this is that it will have a head with Laser Eyes.

I was wondering if anyone had heard of a mini-smoke machine that I could fit so that the beams show up?

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

trippy IKEA LED lighting

2007-07-01T02:11:02Z

I was killing some time at Ikea today and happened upon some trippy lamps that they were selling. I was looking for something that I could potentially run off battery power, and ended up bringing these two home with me:

1) ISTID wall lamp. They make a round one and a square one, and I ended up buying the square one for $20. For some reason it's not on the US website, but here's a picture of it on the UK site:
http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/10094871?ddkey=ProductDisplay

and here's a video of it I found while Googling:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xz9lpz7mk34

This thing is powered by a wallwart which puts out 16vdc. It uses a standard concentric power connector, so I figured I'd bring it home and see how well it runs off 12 vdc. In other words: can I ditch the wall wart and run it directly off batter power? I hooked it up to a lab bench power supply, and bad news. Below about 14.5 volts the thing goes completely black. You really do need 16 volts to power this puppy. So I'm going to return it.

2) DIODER lighting strip $50: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50119407
Yeah, fifty bucks. Ouch. These are four long thin strips each of which is maybe a foot long and has a bunch of clear LEDs on it. In the store it looked insanely bright. LEDs have certainly come a long way the past few years. The wall wart says 12vdc and I thought it would make good footway lighting for my RV, so I bought it to bring home and play with.

The power switch is a "soft" power switch button (ie, it's never really turned off. Even when the lights are off, there's a circuit still running which is watching the power switch.) If you hold the button down, you'll hear beeps at appx 1 second intervals, and so you can select different modes by how many beeps you hear before releasing. So I tap the button and the thing lit up blue. Well, that's weird, I thought they were clear LEDs. Soon enough I discovered these are multicolor LEDs! In one mode, you can select what color you want and it stays that color. In another mode it alternates through the colors automatically. In my favorite mode, it slowly fades from one color to another. Very chill.

The cable is hard-wired, so there's no way to do a non-invasive current measurement. But I like the light a lot so I went ahead and chopped the cable. So here's the deal - the thing is perfectly happy to run on 12 volts DC, and it keeps working down till about 5 or 6 volts before crapping out. So that's good. Then I measured current draw at 12 volts - depending on what color is on, it draws between 200 and 600 mA. OK, kind of a lot, but this thing dumps out craploads of light. But you're not going to want to run this thing of flashlight batteries. When it's turned off it draws about 20 mA, so depending on how you're powering it, you may want a hard power switch upstream of its soft power switch.

Shame it's so pricey, but it is tres cool. I may have to pick up another one.

posted in Burning Bright - 10 replies

DMX control and EL Wire

2007-06-26T20:17:40Z

Hello,

I'm looking for a few things and I hope that you can help me find these items.

The Ikea style unit http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/10094871?ddkey=ProductDisplay that can be DMX controlled.

EL wire with a DMX controler

EL wire that is robust enough to be walked on but not large enough to trip people.

Thanks

Gary

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

looking for URL for LED project from 06 burn

2007-06-26T18:44:46Z

Howdy all,

To set the stage, last year there was a group of people riding around at night with what looked like glowing ping pong balls in different colors bobbing around behind their bikes. It was a pretty nifty effect.

I had found a website sponsored by that group where they offered to send you the techniques for doing this project and have subsequently lost the link. Since I think I originally saw the URL here, I thought I would post to see if someone knows the link.

Thanks. Any tips on creating this project useful as well.

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

LED vs. EL Wire

2007-06-26T17:57:34Z

Hello and thanks for staring this tribe!!

Our camp is debating whether to use LED lighting, EL wire or a combination of both to light our small camp at night. The biggest question is which draws less power? Or, in other words, which one will have our batteries last longer?

Are there other considerations such as limitation in lengths of wire or connections that I don't know about?

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

lighting safety

2007-06-25T17:55:44Z

Greetings,
We are on a limited budget. What is a good way to light up our tent and shade structure tie lines so as to keep our brothers and sisters from getting hurt by them? I am thinking solar powered garden lights, but they are so pricey. We also have a limited amount of space in the RAV4 vehicle. Thanks for you ideas.

posted in Burning Bright - 17 replies

Replacement Batteries

2007-06-25T00:17:59Z

I have glow poi and they use 4-LR1130 Ea. My question is: are there differences between the replacements for this product - AG10, L1131, 389, SR1130, 389/390, or 189? All by various manufacturers. Do some last longer than others? The prices for these batteries vary from $.08 to $.60 Ea. depending on manufacturer and model number.

Thanks,

Jesse Firelight

posted in Burning Bright - 3 replies

Bike Light ideas?

2007-06-23T02:56:26Z

So i already have some Spoke POV thingies from last year that my fiance' made for me....i'd love to have a little more light-

some of my fav. stuff were bikes that had something sticking out from the back like a kids bike flag- but cooler...

what kind of things do you folks do to keep you bike nice and bright?

posted in Burning Bright - 12 replies

Magic Tape

2007-06-22T02:59:45Z

What a trip - I just found this link this morning, and was sending it out to my burner friends, and lo and behold, this tribe invite shows up in my inbox. Perfect timing, Ms. D....

"Magic Tape, as well as Lighting Stripe, is an extremely thin, versatile and flexible film emitting light, such light is more homogeneous than any light source you have ever seen.The perfect alternative to led, neon or other strip-lighting solutions. "

http://www.elshine.it/inglese/magictapes.htm

posted in Burning Bright - 8 replies

Buckle Blinkies

2007-06-21T00:37:18Z

http://www.ahh.biz/products/hardware/Buckles_Side_Release__Black_Plastic_(www.ahh.biz).htm

I saw these for sale but I remember a while back when they sold these but with a blinker on them (often seen on backpacks and cycling equipment). Anyone know where I can specifically find these kinds of side release buckles but with blinkers on them?

posted in Burning Bright - 2 replies

Welcome! burn it bright, baby

2007-06-20T06:37:40Z

Thanks for joining. PLEASE READ the tribe description for important info on posts and moderation. Basically: stay on topic, play nice, and I'm not a babysitter. :)

I'm hoping this can be a place for people to discuss All Things Illumination. Everything from testing new toys, to working with EL, to how to set up a solar panel to charge your night time lights. Feel free to share resources for glow and blinky, review products you've tried, share tutorials, and post pics of cool projects. If you've posted or found helpful info elsewhere you're welcome to repost here.

Shine on!
Ms. Dynomite,
loving moderator

posted in Burning Bright - 4 replies