More of this Feature • Part 1: NMEA 2000 • Part 2: NMEA 2000 • Electronics Q&A • Red LED Lightwedge • JRC JMA-5100 • Suunto M9 • Pocket Stars
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LEDs are not just making traditional flashlights obsolete; they also enable the design of entirely new gizmos like the LightWedge. Originally invented as a personal book light, it’s a nearly flat panel, about 7"x9", most of which is clear acrylic. Two tiny LEDs shine edgewise into the lens and rather magically illuminate whatever is directly beneath. This new model uses red diodes to preserve night vision. While the lens is susceptible to scratching and the light does leak a bit out the edges, the Red LED LightWedge is nonetheless an effective and elegant chart light (and at anchor you can use it to read without annoying a snoozing bunk mate). It runs about 40 hours on four AAA batteries, has two light levels, and costs $45.

LightWedge Phone: (877) 777-9334. www.lightwedge.com.

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