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Click on some of the most frequent support queries below to see if we have your answer.
ABOUT UV FLASHLIGHTS
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What is a UV flashlight and how is it very different from a regular flashlight?
This may seem obvious to the vast majority of you, but in our experience, for some it is worth clearing this one up.
In a nutshell you should NOT expect a powerful high intensity UV flashlight to be comparable to a regular (or white light) flashlight. In other words, you should not judge or evaluate a UV flashlight on how "bright" it seems to your eyes. The brighter the UV flashlight does NOT mean the better it is.
The way to know if a UV light is effective is to observe fluorescence of target objects i.e. how well they react to the UV and vividly they glow. The actual UV light source may be and will be "dim" relatively speaking.
Why?
UV light sources are designed to emit mainly UV light (or UV radiation to be more exact). Therefore the majority output from the LEDs will be UV light, and the amount of visible "white" light should be less in proportion. Remember that UV light is not visible because a good UV light will emit the majority of light below the visible spectrum - the visible spectrum is 395+ nanometers in wavelength. Good UV light is below 395nm.
So, if a decent UV light source is emitting the majority of its light (this is called flux), in the UV range, then naturally your eyes will detect this, and you may be led to conclude that the UV light is "weak", broken, or a scam. But, the way to test, is to point the UV at objects which fluoresce.
Note, that with UV LEDs you will always see a relatively small amount of visible light because this is the way all UV LEDs work - they all emit some light in the 395nm+ region. In other words, there is some flux in the visible region, but not the vast majority of it.
"Better" UV lights will have a low amount of flux in the visible region, and the greatest amount of flux in the UV region. A good UV light source will have a high flux density in the UV region, a term which you may have come across before.
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How does UV work?
UV or ultraviolet is a type of light that is emitted in the non-visible spectrum - so you can't see it. It's the portion of the rainbow you see in the sky where the violet disappears into a blur - the blur and the section onward is the UV spectrum, which you can't see but it's there.
When you point a regular light at an object - say a brown scorpion for example - what will you see? You will see a brown scorpion illuminated. If you point a UV light at the same brown scorpion what will you see? The same scorpion glowing a vivid blue/green color. The UV has attributes that cause certain objects to glow (or fluoresce) when only hit by UV light. This is the principle of excitation in solid state physics. In short, the UV has a unique type of ability to hit an object with a type of energy that disrupts the target object to the point where that object starts to emit light (in the visible spectrum) that wasn't present before. In fact the orbits of atomic electrons are disturbed (and placed in a higher state) where they cause light in the visible spectrum to be emitted. This is known as fluorescence by excitation.
This is pretty unique to UV and means that objects that are otherwise hard-to-spot or invisible, become easily and effortlessly visible under UV. That's why UV is so popular. And it's uses and applications grow with imagination.
Did you know?
That some animals are able to see in the UV spectrum? Did you notice in Predator 2 with Danny Glover, that one of the spectrums (or spectra) used by the Predator in the abattoir was UV? Ok that's a film. Actually, Kestrels (a bird of prey) hover to spot the urine trails of mice, visible only in the UV spectrum. The Elk (or is it Moose?) also has been found to see in the UV spectrum - to its eyes camouflaged wolves appear as dark black objects moving against pure white snow. Under normal light and to our eyes you can hardly see the wolves against the terrain.
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How Do I Choose A UV Flashlight and What Makes Them Different?
V1 and V2 Models
The V1 and V2 models cast more of a floodlight beam rather a spot light. These models are still high intensity UV and the UV beam coverage is slightly wider than the V3 models at shorter ranges. However, the range of the V1 and V2 UV beam is not as far reaching as the V3 models. So the V1 and V2 models are good choices for jobs where a very long UV beam throw is not critical. The rank for range or UV beam throw goes to the winner being the V3 models, next best is the V2, and then it’s the V1.
V3 Models
In contrast the V3 models (with the exception of the V3 365nm MINI) are designed for a much longer and further reaching UV beam. V3 have the highest UV intensity. The UV beam from the V3 models is more of a spot than a flood like with the V1 and V2 models. The V3 models are highest intensity UV, and the spot is adequate even for relatively close-up jobs, but for those that prefer or require a wider spread of UV then the V1 and V2 models may suit better.
So it depends on if you have absolute and clear requirements of beam range versus beam spread. Realistically speaking, the way UV is used in detection, which is by scanning a beam across an area of interest, the V3 models perform adequately. The range and intensity of the V3 models is something which sets them apart.
Last in-a-nutshell point. When it comes UV beam quality, the V3 365nm and the V3 365nm MINI are pretty much untouchable in terms of UV beam quality. Being 365nm wavelength the results you’ll witness are very superior to the wavelengths of 385nm, 395nm UV. The V3 models emitting at 365nm will give you a much higher level of visual results and performance – professionals and industry use this wavelength for very good reasons. Now that doesn’t mean you won’t get good results with the 385-395nm UV wavelength models, you will, but the highest quality best-in-class standard comes with the 365nm wavelength versions. And you’ll likely be upgrading to this wavelength anyway once you’ve graduated with the 385-395nm wavelength models. Most people do.
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How Do I Test the Quality of a UV Flashlight
The easiest test is to use ID documents and items. These have features which are designed by the regulatory authorities which ONLY react to ultraviolet light. Such items are a currency bill, an ID document, a Passport, a Driver's Licence, etc.
Take the UV light source and observe the fluorescence of markings. This markings will not be visible under normal light or under a regular flashlight, no matter how powerful.
Many inferior UV lights will not show these up, or if they do, the markings will be difficult to determine easily. The result you are looking for is that the markings should be relatively easy to distinguish and in some cases may just pop out at you.
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What can I use a UV flashlight for? Common and not so common uses of UV flashlights
You may be surprised to know that a comprehensive answer to this question is difficult. There are the common uses most people know, the not-so-common, and even the ones we ourselves are learning about from users.
For most, deploying UV is a game changer.
Broadly speaking UV can be applied on anything that reacts to UV light. So, in manufacturing, UV is used to check for conformal coating, dyes to detect leaks, and adhesive curing. In the food industry, UV is used to check the quality of eggs, coffee, imperfections in crab meat, age of bananas, and so on. In flora and fauna, and similar fields, UV is used to check for the age of owls, animal and human urine, bones, fossils, scorpions, caterpillars, flying squirrels, and similar fauna. Lichens, Mosses, Fungi, and similar on the flora side. In the art industry, UV is used to check out if expensive items have been tampered with, to verify uranium glass, to charge photo-phosphorescent items (charging glow items), and so on. In crime and forensics UV is used to detect the presence of human urine, fingerprints, blood (sometimes with luminol), teeth and bone fragments, presence of narcotics, security marks and checks, etc. In sports and recreation UV is used to charge and also locate golfing discs, golf balls, charging of fishing lures, and similar. In geology UV is used to fluoresce many minerals and deposits which react to longwave UV in a way that cannot be replicated in visible light. In mining UV is used to detect rubies, opal, etc.
UV is even used by paranormal investigators. The list is actually very long and users are making new discoveries every day - the fluorescence of flying squirrels is one example.
Here's a list for quick reference.
Whether your needs are commercial or domestic uvBeast will not disappoint. Among other applications that require UV light, uvBeast is especially designed (but not limited to) to fluoresce the following:
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Cat/Dog urine (Note: urine needs to be dry - as wet/fresh urine doesn’t fluoresce under UV, but a wet urine stain is easily spotted by the eye anyhow)
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Scorpions and their dens (but the very young, and adults just molted may not glow as much)
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Rat/Mouse urine trails (appear as small dots since they urinate and defecate as they travel and eat – weird I know, glad humans aren't like that. But then again..)
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Human Body Fluids (urine, semen – sorry but had to include for completeness)
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Unsanitary stains, and the like
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UV Curing. For applications that require 365nm or work with higher wavelengths such as 385-395nm, but not adhesives requiring higher than that
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Leak detection. Using UV dyes, leaks can be detected know matter how small in just about any machine in use known to man (e.g. AC units, vehicles, aircraft engines, oil rigs
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Conformity detection. Examples include paint applications, glue coatings, correct coatings against substrates
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Artwork and antique inspection, including uranium glass, glow paint
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Property hygiene appraisal, houses, rental properties, hotels
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UV photography
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UV paint charging and fluorescence. Charging of fishing lures, charging of golf discs
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Food quality inspection. Fruits, fish, coffee beans
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Gemstone identification. Rubies, diamonds, sodalite, amber, and many others
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Caterpillar identification (including the Tomato Hornworm crop destroyer)
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Resin detection (like glue, wall paint, etc.)
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Fossil detection
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Ringworm and mold detection (not all species of mold)
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Narcotic detection
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Security markings
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ID and paper currency verification
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Wood (yes wood!) identification and verification
..and in fact the list goes on (if that wasn't enough).
If you have any other (quirky) uses let us know and we'll include it!
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Is UV harmful to my eyes?
UV from the uvBeast is not dangerous to the eye. Please refer to the FDA's 21 CFR 1040 - PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR LIGHT-EMITTING PRODUCTS paper.
The FDA classifies "harmful" light emitters being laser emitters, sunlamps (for tanning), UV mercury vapor lamps, and medical UV devices.
And this is scientifically correct since the dangerous types of UV are:
1. UV-B and UV-C which are below 315nm which is also known as shortwave UV in the actinic region. Sunlight does contain UV-B which is why you'll see "dangers of sun exposure articles", whilst the Earth's atmosphere filters out UV-C from the Sun - good thing as it has DNA altering characteristics which is why it is used as a germicide
2. Sunlamps that are VERY high intensity which are designed for darkening the skin via exposure for several hours.
All current uvBeast models emit UV-A (above 315nm wavelength) which is not harmful to the eyes nor skin, and moreover the intensity is not that of sunlamps. Moreover the UV emission is at a wavelength of 365nm, or 385-395nm which is well above the dangerous "315nm and below" UVC region.
However, it is not advisable to look directly at the uvBeast since it will cause discomfort similar to looking at any intense light. The UV glasses which are provided with some of our models will assist in reducing the glare effects and any discomfort that some users may experience.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
CHARGING PROCEDURE
PRODUCT QUERIES
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What are the O-rings in the inner packaging for?
Spare O-rings can be found in the internal packaging - sometimes these can be located with the extension barrel for relevant models. With most models you will find O-rings in the packaging. These are spares that we have included for you. (Please note that O-rings are already fitted in your uvBeast device).
You may use the spares when the original fitted O-rings either get inadvertently damaged during battery replacement or otherwise. To ensure that you get the longest lifetime from the O-rings, apply a suitable lubricant such as petroleum jelly to the O-rings prior to fitting. Petroleum based lubricants are better since the O-rings are silicone. You may apply lubricant in-situ to the existing O-rings to prolong their life.
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What are the UV glasses for?
The purpose of the UV glasses provided with some models is primarily for enhanced and amplified viewing of fluorescence (i.e. the items of interest that you want to see). This is particularly effective when (1) traces of fluorescence and/or excitation effects are weak and hard to otherwise spot, and (2) when conditions in the environment present high color “noise”. In addition, our glasses will sharpen and clarify the viewed surroundings and will show any reaction to the UV light i.e. fluorescence, with sharper contrast.
The secondary purpose is to reduce glare and discomfort (by the 385-395nm wavelength range) the user may experience when using the uvBeast especially during prolonged periods. The purple visible wavelength from the uvBeast 385-395nm models can sometimes be slightly overwhelming when against certain backgrounds and substrates.
These glasses were primarily designed to filter out interfering visible wavelengths from the beam of some models of the uvBeast which are in the longer wavelengths (above 365nm). This spectral distribution is a normal characteristic of LED technology as opposed to laser diode technology, and visible light from the uvBeast only comprises a small amount of flux relative to the entire spectral output.
The color tint of the glasses are of a special formula adjusted to the uvBeast’s spectral emission and distribution flux, where transmission of the appropriate and wanted wavelengths are either granted or denied transmission.(For further information please “Is UV harmful to my eyes” in the Help Center).
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Why don't the 365nm models come with glasses?
(As a background please also see article “Is UV harmful to my eyes?”)
With regards to the uvBeast V3 365nm and the V3 365nm MINI, we do not offer the UV glasses with this product. The reason is because with these particular UV flashlights they are not needed. With our other models we do provide glasses since these emit a higher wavelength of 385-395nm UV. This higher wavelength contains majority UV but since it is close to visible light (~400nm) there is visible light emission.
This visible light (pertaining to 385-395nm models) can cause eye fatigue for some users after prolonged use. So the glasses assist in preventing that. Also, another function of the glasses is to block out visible light interference when observing fluorescence where sometimes and on some target objects it can be difficult to distinguish objects which are fluorescing, and the purple visible light interference emitted from UV flashlights at 385-395nm wavelength.
So, coming back to the uvBeast 365nm UV flashlight models. This flashlight emits a lower and more pure wavelength of UV at 365nm wavelength and consequently doesn't emit anywhere as much visible light and so therefore the glasses are not needed for this particular flashlight.
In addition, UV is classified into longwave and shortwave. Longwave UV also known as UVA is not harmful to skin nor eyes. Longwave UV (UVA) is ~300nm and above, and so the V3 365nm flashlight emits longwave (UVA) UV light which is not dangerous. Shortwave UV however aka UVB and UVC, is harmful due to the shorter wavelength, and is ~300nm and below. This type of shortwave UV has the known ability to damage human DNA (cancerous), and so therefore is treated with extreme caution.
Having said that, as with any powerful flashlight - including white light flashlights - looking at the beam directly will cause discomfort and so like white light flashlights should be used responsibly.
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Where can I get the User Manuals from?
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I’d like to get a third 18650 Battery. What are the options? (applies to V3 models)
The effect of adding an additional cell will be to increase working time by about 1-1.5 hours.
As for the extra cell. Here's what to look for:
1. Button-top, 3.7 volt lithium ion 18650 size
2. At least 2600mAh capacity (beware of cells which claim 3400mAh plus - this is likely inflated as the known limit at present is around 3400mAh) for 18650
3. "Protected" cells are better since they will prevent over charging and over discharging. Protected means they have a PCB circuit within the cells itself which monitors the cell chemistry
4. ICR, IMR, INR cell chemistries are all good. Note with IMR they do not need to be "protected".
Incidentally, another option is to obtain two 3400mAh capacity cells. This will give you longer working times on a single charge due to the higher capacity. Estimation is 5-6+ hours on a single charge.
These are good examples:
https://imrbatteries.com/products/panasonic-ncr18650b-3350mah-4-87a-battery-protected-button-top
https://imrbatteries.com/collections/18650-protected-batteries
Good outlets are (as well as the above) Battery Bros, Orbtronics, Battery Junction, and similar outlets.
https://batterybro.com/collections/18650-battery
https://www.orbtronic.com/18650-battery
The higher the mAh (capacity) figure the longer they'll last on a single charge. But beware many false vendors inflate the figures, so anything above 3800mAh beware unless it's from the likes of Panasonic, LG, Samsung, Sony, etc.
Two of these in the V3 will give you roughly 5-6+ hours on a single charge. So you may not wish to use the extension barrel. Also the good thing with lithium-ion is that they self-discharge very slowly, so when kept in the V3 for a while they won't lose much charge. Also li-ion don't leak and corrode.
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Li-ion Battery Safety Notes
Use caution as misusing or mishandling the battery may cause a FIRE or EXPLOSION which may result in personal injury, property damage, or death. The user must have an appropriate understanding of the potential dangers of LITHIUM ION BATTERIES before purchase and usage. No express or implied guarantee of compatibility, suitability, or fitness for any particular purpose or device can be made. Any recommendations herein of batteries is intended for the stated use. It is the buyer’s responsibility to check whether purchased batteries are suitable for the stated use as given on this website. The recommended battery is neither designed nor intended to be used with an E-CIGARETTE, VAPORIZER, or similar device and MUST NOT be used with such devices due to RISK OF FIRE or EXPLOSION.
DO NOT USE WITH E-CIGARETTE, VAPORIZER, OR SIMILAR DEVICE
Additional battery manufacturer and battery industry association warnings for using lithium-ion batteries in e-cigarette or vaping devices can be viewed here: Be-CigaretteSafe.org
DO NOT STORE BATTERY/CELL LOOSE OR IN A POCKET, PURSE, ETC. ALWAYS USE A PROTECTIVE CASE OR BOX FOR STORAGE AND TRANSPORT
WHEN NOT IN USE, ALWAYS STORE LITHIUM ION BATTERIES IN THE PROTECTIVE CASE/BOX IN WHICH BATTERIES WERE DELIVERED
Misusing or mishandling lithium ion batteries can pose a SERIOUS RISK of PERSONAL INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR DEATH
BATTERIES MAY EXPLODE, BURN, OR CAUSE A FIRE IF MISUSED OR MISHANDLED
Usage of batteries is AT YOUR OWN RISK.
DO NOT short circuit intentionally or unintentionally
KEEP AWAY from metal/conductive objects to prevent short circuiting
DO NOT use if PVC wrapper or terminal insulator is damaged or torn
DO NOT use if battery is damaged in any way
DO NOT over-charge or charge above the maximum voltage rating
DO NOT over-discharge or exceed the continuous discharge rating
DO NOT modify, disassemble, puncture, cut, crush, or incinerate
DO NOT expose to liquids or high temperatures
DO NOT solder onto battery
DO NOT use force to install or install in reverse/backwards
ONLY use within manufacturer’s specification
KEEP AWAY from pets and children
ALWAYS charge in or on a fire-proof surface and never leave batteries charging unattended
ONLY use a charger designed for this specific type of battery
DO NOT mix and match brands and models, old and new, used and unused batteries
STOP immediately if while charging/storing/using the battery it emits an unusual smell, feels hot, changes color or shape, or appears abnormal in any way
It is your responsibility to determine that your charger or device is functioning properly
If exposed to battery electrolyte, flush with water immediately and/or immediately contact a physician or emergency services
DO NOT throw away in trash; contact your local jurisdiction for proper recycling or disposal
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Is the difference between the V3 385-395nm model and the V3 365nm ONLY the filter?
No. They are different because they emit UV at different wavelengths. The filter is not causing the difference in wavelengths, the LEDs are. The two models have different LEDs. So the real difference is in the UV wavelength, and the filter on the V3 365nm acts to accentuate the 365nm UV wavelength.
With the V3 385-395nm model, there is “no” 365nm emitted in the first place. (We say “no” but in reality there is some flux in that region but it isn’t significant relative to the majority 385-395nm wavelength). In other words, by simply fitting a filter to the 385-395nm will NOT give you the same wavelength as the V3 365m and therefore it will not give you the same results.
The difference between 365nm and the 385-395nm ultraviolet is that you’ll get different results. Not necessarily better, but different, since it depends on your usage. For forensic type work, professional stain detection, geology, cell staining, leakage detection, NDT, or in applications where you need high contrast in fluorescence, the 365nm is a sought after wavelength. Also, bear in mind that some substances will only show up under 365nm UV, so that is also a key consideration. Artwork and antique appraisal is a good use case example. The 385-395nm wavelength is sometimes preferred for applications which need higher intensity UV where the higher wavelength will also perform. For example, miners, engineers, fishermen, fossil hunters, bone identification (human and otherwise), and scorpion hunters - to name a few user types - may prefer the longer wavelength and pound-for-pound higher relative UV intensity for longer range applications.
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What are the technical specifications for your UV flashlights?
Please see below. Distances from light source are approx. 24 inches.
GENERAL QUERIES
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Shipping Times?
Stock is in the US and ships from the US. We do have plans to be able to ship outside of the US. If you're in the US you'll get fast and free shipping. For the time being, for international shipping please try our stores on Amazon US and eBay US.
Standard Shipping is 5-8 business days (FREE)
Expedited Shipping is 3-5 business days
Priority Shipping is 1-3 business days
PLEASE NOTE: Unlikely and infrequently, sometimes due to events outside of our control delivery logistics times may vary, but we'll always do our best to make sure we get your items to you.
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Where's my stuff?
For all purchases from us at uvBeast.com you will receive an email and/or SMS to track your orders in the follow-up contact we make with you after placing your order with us. Please check for tracking updates.
My Order Was Not Received
This could be due to a few reasons. The first thing to do is to check the tracking number for the delivery. If it shows that it has not been delivered then it is likely still on its way. It may have got delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. However, if it's been more than what can be considered as a reasonable time for arrival, then check with the carrier.
If your tracking information shows that your package was delivered, but you can't find it (then within 36 hours of expected delivery) please:
Verify the shipping address
Look for a notice of attempted delivery
Look around the delivery location for your package
See if someone else accepted the delivery
Some packages travel through multiple carriers; check your mailbox or wherever else you receive mail. Wait 36 hours - in rare cases packages may say delivered up to 36 hours prior to arrival. Outside of this, contact the shipping carrier.
Your Order Could be Undeliverable
Here are some reasons why sometimes your order cannot be delivered. Please check and ensure that none of these are present, or none of these reasons have caused your order not to have been received by you:
Item is too big for a P.O. Box. Some items are too big to ship to a P.O. Box and must be shipped to a street address.
Incorrect Address/Missing Information. The package is typically returned by the carrier or the unintended recipient if the address is incorrect, has typos, is missing information (such as an apartment number or ZIP code), or is outdated (such as a previous residence).
Address Format. If a post office box address was entered in a format our system does not recognize, the package may be shipped through a carrier that cannot deliver to a post office box. To ensure that such packages are routed through the proper carriers, please enter the box number as "PO BOX" followed by the number. Also, if you're a private mailbox holder (use a local commercial mail receiving agency), do not use "Box" for your mailbox number, instead use # or PMB. This will ensure that your address is not mistaken to be a P.O. Box, and that orders can ship to you via means other than the U.S. Postal Service.
Secure Location. Your package may be returned to us if there is no safe place to leave the package at the point of delivery, where the package is safe from weather and is not visible to passers by.
Unable to Access. Your package may be returned to if the carrier can't access the delivery location due to no access code, call box number, or buzzer information, and can't obtain the information after multiple attempts.
Other Address Problems. If the order is being shipped to a prison, there may be delivery restrictions associated with the items or shippers These restrictions are determined by the penitentiary and may vary. Many items can be shipped to Department of State addresses, however, some cannot and will be returned as a result. For a full list of shipping restrictions at a specific DOS address, please contact the DOS facilities staff at that location.
Failed Delivery Attempts. Most carriers make three attempts to deliver a package. Packages that contain more than $1300 of merchandise will always require a signature; otherwise, it is generally up to the driver's discretion to determine whether a signature is required. After three attempts, the package will be returned.
Damaged During Transit. If a package is damaged on its way to you, the shipper may return it without attempting delivery.
Other Transportation Problems. Packages can be sorted to the wrong carrier or labels can be damaged such that the carrier is unable to determine the correct delivery address.
Refused by Recipient. If a recipient is not expecting a package, they may refuse it if they believe it was sent to them in error.
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