3
Theory of Operation
The Maxa Beam Searchlight produces light by passing an arc of electricity between
two electrodes in a quartz tube filled with a pressurized atmosphere of Xenon gas. A
plasma ball is formed and precisely positioned within an electroformed reflector by
an internal microprocessor controlling a servo motor.
When the ignition button is pressed, a high voltage RF igniter produces up to 20,000
volts to ionize the Xenon gas within the lamp, allowing DC current to flow through
the lamp. Once the arc is established, gas temperature and pressure start to climb,
forcing the Xenon into a plasma state. The light will come on with a constant high
beam for approximately 2 seconds to assure reliable ignition of a cold lamp and will
then go to the programmed intensity. After lamp has ignited, the internal
microprocessor takes control of the operation of the electronic focus, power settings
and the user programmable options.
The searchlight’s switch mode power supply is factory set and requires no
adjustment (even after a lamp change) as the control circuitry is self-calibrating.
Internal power regulation keeps both the intensity and color of the beam constant as
the voltage from the battery drops.
Safety Warnings
ANSI Risk Group 3. Warning.
Visible and infrared radiation emitted from this searchlight.
Permanent eye damage can result. Avoid direct exposure to the beam.
•
Do not look directly into the searchlight beam.
Exposure of the eye to either the
direct searchlight beam or a beam reflected from a flat mirror-like surface can cause
permanent eye injury to the unprotected eye. Follow the same precaution even when
an Infrared Filter is installed on the searchlight.
o
Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance (NOHD), Visible Light:
10 meters
o
NOHD, Infrared Light:
30 meters for exposures greater than 10 seconds
•
Do not operate searchlight if the front lens is damaged or removed.
Ultraviolet
injury to skin and cornea can occur if the searchlight is operated with a damaged
front lens or if the lens is removed.
•
Do not allow the concentrated beam of light to be focused on flammable
materials at close distances for prolonged periods of time.
•
Do not operate light in an explosive environment.
•
Do not touch lamp connections during operation
as high voltage is present.
•
Do not touch the quartz envelope of the lamp.
If the lamp is accidentally touched,
clean with alcohol or the solution supplied in the replacement lamp kit.
•
Always wear protective eyewear, long sleeves, and gloves if removing the front
lens cover.
The lamp is under positive pressure and should be handled with care.
•
Always disconnect searchlight from power
cord when not in use, when placed in
storage or when being transported
to prevent accidental activation.
