Imported post
I got a Hartenberger Mega Compact at the Dusseldorf Boot (Boat) show...and there's a huge dive section.
Anyway, it's quite useful for zero, or next to zero viz, just so your buddy can know you're still there and he keeps his eye on the light...diving in the lake means he'll be no more than arms reach away even if you can't see him.
50w halogen bulb with NMH cell pack 14.4v and at 125% your burn time is 48 mins...this can be increased to 80 mins if you switch to a 30W halogen bulb.
I normally go on 100% if I'm doing a single dive and that gives me 65 mins at 125%...but that's when viz is at 30cm during the day. You can reduce the output at night even if the algae and silt is bad...
During the winter when the water is clear of algae you can get viz to 4m so the output required is less and you can get 2 good dives at 65% with burn of nearly 2 hours...assuming you're on singles.
Blah blah...it's a nice torch, gives you 2-3kg weight but it's pricey and to be honest I'm glad I have it but having seen other lamps I'd not buy it again.....having said that...every time and everywhere I dive with it, everyone asks me what lamp i have...it's easy to blast up to 125% for a quick peek somewhere and zip back down again...etc etc.
Verdict:
It's a great bit of kit but pricey...
No good for caving.
Always have at least one back up light, 2 or more depending on your dives but these can be cheap UK lights which for the money are bloody good.
Soz for the waffle but my mother in law is here so i'm hiding on YDIvers.
Cheers.
Kinetic