Princeton Tec Apex 4 AA LED Headlamp
Operating and Maintenance Instructions
Battery Installation (See Figure 1)
The Princeton Tec Apex headlamp uses 4 AA batteries. Compatible types include Lithium (L91), Alkaline (LR6), and Rechargeable Nicad or NiMH batteries.
To install batteries:
- Release the battery tray using the headband tool or a coin.
- Slide the battery tray out of the battery pack.
- Observe proper battery polarity when installing the batteries, ensuring the [+] and [-] ends are correctly aligned.
Warnings:
- Never mix fresh and used batteries.
- Never mix different battery brands or chemistry types.
- Always remove drained batteries immediately.
- Remove batteries during long periods of storage.
Princeton Tec recommends recycling batteries. For more information, visit batterysolutions.com.
Improper battery installation will damage the light and void the warranty.
Lithium batteries offer better performance in extreme cold and are lighter. Rechargeable batteries may result in reduced brightness in some modes due to lower voltage.
The battery pack has a waterproof seal. Keep this seal free from dirt and harsh chemicals. Inspect and clean the seal with a damp cotton swab and mild soap if dirt is present.
Note: Some battery types can emit hydrogen gas. The Apex battery pack is equipped with a platinum catalyst to remove this gas. If the catalyst appears damaged (indicated by gray particles in the battery compartment), do not use the headlamp.
Switch Operation (See Figure 2)
The headlamp features two buttons for controlling the Maxbright LED (spot beam) and Ultrabright LEDs (flood beam and strobe).
Left Button (Maxbright LED - Spot Beam):
- Single press: High spot beam.
- Double press: Medium spot beam.
- Triple press: Low spot beam.
- Single press (after 1.6 seconds of inactivity): Turn off [power-off].
Right Button (Ultrabright LEDs - Flood Beam & Strobe):
- Single press: Activate flood mode (recalls last brightness setting - memory).
- Double press: High flood beam.
- Triple press: Low flood beam.
- Quadruple press: Strobe mode.
- Single press (after 1.6 seconds of inactivity): Turn off [power-off].
Dimming:
When the light is on (in spot or flood modes), press and hold the respective button to activate dimming. The LEDs will blink once to indicate the lowest or highest settings.
Battery Power Meter
A multicolored LED indicates battery capacity:
LED Color | Battery Capacity* |
---|---|
Green | > 40% of total |
Yellow | < 40% of total |
Red | ~ 20 minutes of runtime remaining |
*Capacity percentage is the minimum expected remaining power for the Maxbright LED in high mode at 0°C.
The meter provides a general idea of remaining runtime. Battery voltage changes can affect the color reading. After the light is turned off, the meter may temporarily display a higher setting due to voltage recovery. When the light is off, the meter blinks for 24 hours to show status, then turns off to conserve power.
Low Battery Signaling During Use
When approximately 20 minutes of runtime remain, the Apex will blink three times rapidly. The battery power meter will also show red. You can switch to a lower light level to extend runtime.
Performance
Performance specifications based on the ANSI FL-1 Standard:
Mode | Lumens | Runtime | Beam Pattern | Regulated Reserve |
---|---|---|---|---|
SPOT HIGH | 650 | 1.5h | Described by a beam distance graph showing output over distance. | 1.4h |
SPOT MED. | 350 | 12h | 0.5h | |
SPOT LOW | 70 | 12h | 2h | |
FLOOD HIGH | 70 | 10h | Described by a beam distance graph showing output over distance. | 8h |
FLOOD STROBE | 70 | 10h | 90h | |
FLOOD LOW | 25 | 6h | 144h |
Runtime definition: Time from initial light output (30 seconds after turn-on) until output reaches 10% of the initial value.
Reserve time definition: Time from 10% of initial light output down to 0.25 lux.
Circuitry and Power Management
Circuitry
The Apex uses a sophisticated circuit with a metal heatsink to cool electronics and protect LEDs. A backup temperature protection circuit gradually decreases light output if the internal temperature becomes too high.
The headlamp automatically turns off after 12 hours of inactivity; any button press resets this timer.
Never attempt to disassemble the lamp housing; it is sealed and contains no user-serviceable parts. Disassembly voids the warranty.
Keep the heatsink and plastic cover free of obstructions. Do not remove the heatsink cover, as it protects from high temperatures. If the cover is damaged, do not use the headlamp.
Power Consumption
The Apex uses a current-controlled circuit for constant light output as long as batteries have sufficient voltage. Runtime varies by battery type, LEDs, and selected light level.
Troubleshooting
If the Apex fails to light:
- Check battery installation.
- Inspect the cable for damage.
If the Apex does not change brightness levels:
- Battery voltage may be too low for brighter settings. This is normal for regulated circuits. Install new batteries.
- In extreme heat, the LED temperature protection circuit may have activated. Allow the light to cool down.
Warranty and Return Policy
USA Lifetime - International 10 Year Warranty
Princeton Tec warrants the product against defects in workmanship and materials under normal use for the owner's lifetime (USA) or 10 years (International). This excludes batteries and normal wear or damage from misuse, alteration, negligence, accidents, or unauthorized repair.
Princeton Tec will repair or replace defective parts. Only authorized facilities can repair the product. If repairs are unsuccessful within the warranty period, replacement or a refund (less usage allowance) may be offered.
Incidental or consequential damages are not included. Some states may not allow these limitations.
Princeton Tec reserves the right to change product specifications without notice.
For California Residents:
WARNING: This product contains Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Return Policy
If your light fails to operate:
- Check and replace batteries if necessary.
- Contact Princeton Tec customer service at 1-800-257-9080 to request an RMA number, providing your light model, purchase date, and a description of the fault. No warranty repairs accepted without an RMA number.
- Return the light without batteries to: Princeton Tec, PO Box 8057, Trenton NJ 08650. Postage due and freight collect items will not be accepted.
- Processing typically takes about two weeks, plus return transportation time.