Gamma

Multifunction LED headtorch.

Lighting modes

The Gamma Headtorch functions from a single multi operation button (SMOB). This orange SMOB gives access to two lighting modes each with multiple settings:

1W LED Mode

This is the large central LED, it provides the brightest light. When in this mode the button toggles between 4 settings; High > Low > Strobe > Off.

5mm LED Mode

This mode toggles between the three 5mm LEDs and has 5 settings; White LED > Green LED > Red LED > Red LED (Strobe) > Off.

Bonus Backlight LED

In addition to the two modes of the head unit we have given you a bonus. The battery pack is fitted with a red LED light, this light has 3 settings; On > Strobe > Off. A button on the side of the battery compartment cycles between these settings and operates independently from the button on the head unit.

Operation

Turn the torch on:
Press the orange button once. The Gamma torch will illuminate your world in the mode it was last used (either in 1W LED or 5mm LED mode).

Cycle through the settings of a mode:
Press the switch again to step through each setting of the currently selected mode.

Toggle between modes:
To change modes turn Gamma on and then press and hold the button for 3 seconds.

The head unit

The head unit contains three 5mm LEDs and one 1W Luxeon LED. The unit pivots so that you can direct your light during use. The orange button on top of the unit toggles between the torch's modes and functions. This part of the torch cannot be opened and the bulbs are not replaceable.

Lighting test

Jim takes things in to his own hands and tries to find the Alpvan with a selection of headtorches. Check out our Lab Notes for the results.

The battery compartment

The battery compartment takes three 1.5V AAA alkaline batteries. The compartment is opened by holding the unit in your left hand and firmly twisting the cap on the righthand side of the compartment. An orange button on the left side of the battery compartment toggles between the functions of the backlight.

Adjustable headstrap

The elasticated headstrap can be adjusted for different sized heads, wearing over a monster wooly hat or climbing helmet. The straps can also be removed or replaced by sliding the elastic through the small slots in the plastic housings.

A note on batteries: The Gamma and Indigo headtorches have not been designed to work with lithium batteries. Lithium batteries have a high output during discharge which means they can cause the torch to overheat and possibly damage electronics and LEDs. We recommend using a good quality alkaline battery such as Energizer. Cheap batteries are more likely to leak and leave a gooey mess on the contacts.

Alpkit products are available exclusively from Alpkit.com

Status: Available online

Features at a glance

  • Two modes - 1W LED or 5mm LEDs.
  • Instant off - from any mode.
  • Orange button - single multi operation button.
  • Green and Red LEDs - for night vision.
  • Pivotable head unit - give your neck a rest.
  • Emergency strobe mode - attract attention.
  • Adjustable elastic headband - because we all have different sized heads.
  • Water resistant - that doesn't mean waterproof to 10m!
  • Batteries included - and they are Duracell.
  • Red light - on battery pack with strobe mode.

Specification

  • 1 x 1W Luxeon LED (up to 51 lumens)
  • 3 x 5mm LED's Red, White, Green (1.8 lumens)
  • Weight: 118g with batteries
  • Batteries: 3 x 1.5V AAA alkaline included

Battery life

  • 1W LED mode: 10hrs HIGH
  • 1W LED mode: 20hrs LOW
  • 1W LED mode: 25hrs STROBE
  • 5mm LED mode: 80hrs
  • Red strobe light: 160hrs