FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] Re: Optical Mouse Too Bright

[Paul Dickson <dickson@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Sat, 04 Oct 2003 21:48:25 -0700, Gene A. Lucas wrote:

> While on the subject, to "paint" incandescent bulbs "red" (remember
> those, before LEDs?), regular paint (or even fingernail polish) in time
> will burn, discolor, and flake off, due to the high bulb temperature. 
> What is needed is a translucent, RUBY RED lacquer/paint made for high
> temperature.  The arts & crafts stores carry a product (in many colors)
> intended to paint glassware to make "stained glass" effects.  This comes
> in small, wide mouth jars.  The RUBY RED color is ideal -- it is really
> RED and transparent, not opaque.  Just attach a wire and dip your
> flashlight bulbs and apply two coats.  Doesn't darken, burn, or flake. 
> A small jar will last a LONG time.

I would be relucant to try this with the halogen bulbs now commonly used
in the maglights.  While the paint would increase the surface area of the
bulb and thus increase the radiant area, the paint would block the upper
portion of the visual spectrum preventing energy release there.  This
would ultimately lead to melting plastic parts within the flashlight,
shorter battery life, and/or burns from handling an overheated flashlight.

With a normal incandescent bulb, it would be prudent to add a resistor
reduce the current flow to the bulb (and thus decrease the brightness and
heat).

        -Paul

--
See message header for info on list archives or unsubscribing, and please 
send personal replies to the author, not the list.