Solar powered flashlights are flashlights powered by solar energy stored in rechargeable batteries. Most of these flashlights use light-emitting diodes lamps [1][2] since they have lower energy consumption compared to incandescent light bulbs. [3]
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Solar powered flashlights vary in features and capabilities. A typical flashlight can give useful levels of illumination on objects up to 50 metres away, and beam may be visible for much longer distances. The colar cells used for battery charging have an indefinite life expectancy. A solar powered flashlihgt may give several hours of light after being charged during the day. [3] Flashlights may be designed to be impact resistant, weatherproof, and to float. [4] [5]
Other models include features such as a solar cell phone charger[6], an AM/FM radio, or a siren to call for help in an emergency. Some models include a hand crank dynamo for charging at night. [7]
An experimental solar flashlight the size of a credit card features a white LED powered by 16 solar cells. [8]
Solar powered flashlights have been distributed to countries where there is either no or erratic power supply, helping people feel safer leaving their homes at night, and giving children the opportunity to study after sunset.[9][10] A dual purpose solar flashlight, which also functions as a lamp has helped families in such countries spend more time together, surgeries to be performed during power outages and people to travel in the dark under a halo of light.[11][12][13]