Interesting Facts About the Flashlight

We all own one or more flashlights and no one can deny that flashlights can really be ‘savers’. At times when electricity is of no use like when we experience a car breakdown or disaster of some sort, your 5 led flashlight is off the shelf and ‘on duty’. It seems to me we seem to neglect this valuable device and probably don’t even have an idea as to who invented it. Lets take a while to uncover some facts all flashlight junkies should know about the flashlight.

1. Who invented it and when?

Interestingly, though torches can be considered as very simple devices, the first flashlight was only invented after the invention of the electric battery and the electric light. Many point to the late 1890’s as the date of invention. Many believe that Conrad Hubert (aka Akiba Horowitz) the founder of ever ready company was its inventor however according to the New Yorker magazine dated 1947, Joshua Lionel Cowen, of Lionel toy train fame, invented the flashlight and later sold it to Hubert who marketed it as a novelty.

2. How did the flashlight get its name?

When the first flashlight was invented, no steady electric current source was available and users needed to press a button to literally flash light at intervals. Thus the common name ‘flashlight’. In European countries however, the name torch or electric torch is used.

3. What is the difference between a lantern and a flashlight?

Mainly it has to do with the area it casts light upon. Flashlights generally can only light up a smaller area compared to lanterns which can be used to light up entire rooms. Lanterns are also not made to be held by the users and have handles which allow them to be hang up and have a flat base and can be placed on a high place.

4. What is an LED flashlight?

Invented in the late 1990’s LED or Light Emitting Diode torches don’t use batteries or bulbs and are more efficient and durable. You don’t have to worry about changing batteries and running out of power. This kind of light source uses semiconductor technology.

5. Can flashlight bulbs be replaced?

Yes. You just have to make sure you know the size and kind of bulb you’ll be replacing.It is a good idea to replace your flashlight bulbs once in a while so lengthen its life.

6. Where should you keep your batteries when not in use?

With cameras or other gadgets, it is usually advisable to remove the batteries when not in use. With your flashlight however, it would be best if you keep them inside and ready to work at all times. You don’t want to be in the middle of an emergency and have to start looking for your batteries.

Source by Adriano Ortsaced

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