Originally Posted by
01 CAt Man Do
Actually, this is not an unusual request and has nothing to do with choice of mode. The real issue is, "More run time". Since both the Lezyne MD XL600 and the Raveman type lamps are totally self contained with sealed batteries, the best way to increase run time is to include a feature with the USB charging circuit port that would allow the lamp to utilize an external battery bank to both power the lamp and/or charge at the same time. With most self contained lamps the lamp will not operate while the mico USB port is being used to charge the lamp. It would only take a different circuit design and then an external battery could then be used for extended run time.
The Raveman CR-900 I use will give me a good 3 hrs run time with it's internal 3000mAh battery when used on it's medium mode ( 450 lumen ). It is my hope that future models will incorporate both hidden flash modes and perhaps one of the newer generation 20700 4200mAh Li-ion cells. If it does the lamp will be maybe a half inch longer and supply perhaps 20% more run time. Even better if they would upgrade the USB electronics to allow use of an external battery while the lamp is on. The CR-900 does have one programmable mode but sadly the setting cannot be saved once you change modes. Would be nice if they could fix that or even better make all the modes programmable and saveable.
One of the few things I don't like about my NiteRider 1800. When its dead, its dead, and no emergency backup or limp home. Its completely out of commission unit it is recharged again. Just one reason why I'm considering carrying a small auxiliary clip-on headlight if for no other reason than to keep me legal.
As for its programmable there is none. And its requirement to have to scroll through all the modes on every startup is just a nuisance.
On the other hand, my Canon DSLR, can not only accept its regular replaceable camera batteries, but has an accessory cartridge that will accept the ubiquitous AA batteries in a pinch. This is true forward thinking you have to wonder why its not more widespread. It is the biggest issue with built-in, sealed batteries.