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Does size really matter?
Does the diameter of the lens have a profound effect on the ability of the speaker to effectively observe the light indication and respond appropriately? What elements should be considered in the determination of the size of light to be used? Should height of the light be a factor in this decision? Does size justify the cost?
Yes, size does matter.
Let’s discuss the concerns for determining the size of light appropriate for the intended use. OPPs are not discussed in this blog; the writer has little or no knowledge of Other People’s Products. For this document, we’ll discuss the two sizes of lights sold on this website: the grey or small black box light, or, the Big Daddy light.
Lens Sizes
The small lights have lens openings just under two inches or about 1.875 inches in diameter. The Big Daddy light has lens openings of three inches which is more than half again as much exposed light area. Obviously, it is prudent to use something smaller for close up exposure verses larger for greater distances. Therefore, let’s consider the distance from the speaker to help determine the size light to be used.
A distance of twenty to thirty feet is better served with a small light. It is easily seen; it can be set on a table top or supported on a stand for greater height to look over table toppers or audience heads. There should be a straight eye shot between the speaker and the light. As a plus, a small light that is battery operated is very portable and easily stored. Keep in mind the size of the room, the layout of the audience seating and the relationship to the speaking area, whether or not there is a raised platform or podium for the speaker, and the ambient lighting.
For a distance of twenty-five to fifty feet or more, a larger light should be used. Traffic lights use lenses most commonly of eight inches. Some are as large as twelve inches. The eight inch lens light can be seen a quarter mile away. Therefore, eight inches is too big and overkill. For indoor use and nominal motion involved, the three inch lens is adequate for most room sizes for the common speech environment. It is wise to place the light at a convenient distance from the speaker so he can make good use of its color scheme when illuminated.
The Big Daddy signal light offers both height and lens size.
The height of the light is seventeen and a quarter inches; the lenses are three inches in diameter. At a distance of fifty feet, it is most decidedly visible to the speaker. The three inch large lenses are easily seen when illuminated. The contrast between a lens dark and a lens illuminated is substantial.
IWhere is it okay to use which light?
s it okay to use the Big Daddy light in a smaller room? Yes, of course it is okay. When tested in a smaller room setting, say about fifteen feet away from the speaker, the speaker has no problem with size or intensity of the lights. It is currently being used with all rudeness in handling to prove its durability before, during, and after meetings. It proves to be an awesome contrast to the little grey box light even in a small room setting.
In conclusion...
In this writer’s opinion, either light, the small one or the large one, will serve most speaking engagement needs. The little light is compact, easily transported, and costs less. The Big Daddy light is bulkier, costs more, and presents a greater transportation and storage problem. It has a redeeming factor of having an AC adapter in the event the batteries are allowed to expire. If budget is a big concern, then you will be happy and content with the little light. If you have a bigger budget, go with the Big Daddy Timing Light!
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Simplicity
The lights are simple to use, yet effective. Speakers easily see the steady streaming lights as they appear. The timer need only reach up to the control knob from time to time to switch the lights from off to on, from green to yellow, and from yellow to red.
The Safety Factor
I've seen various timing lights used in Toastmasters clubs in many places, from the club level to the district level. The greatest hazard I have seen with most lights is the fact that they are powered by AC and plugged into the wall electricity. Someone could easily and carelessly trip over the power cord feeding the light, fall and break his neck. This is wrong. Most Toastmasters have no clue as to equipment safety and the city code that calls for these utility cords being taped down so that no one will trip and cause injury.
Hence, the battery powered light! No cords or wires streaming across the floors, walkways, and other traffic areas.
Compact & Versitle
The timing lights I build are compact, yet very visible, light weight, decorative, and easy to use. They are constructed with high intensity LEDs for the speaker to see and panel lights for the timer to see. The batteries can last up to three years. However, I recommend changing them once a year to protect the light from possible damage do to occasional battery leakage.
It is time to retire the paper and move up to the classy battery operated timing light. If you are in a Toastmasters club or other organization requiring indication of the passing of time, treat yourself to a battery operated timing light from Timing Lights by Web Wizard.
Decision to Buy
These timing lights are hand assembled with many parts custom cut, soldered, glued, and drilled. The price is modest especially since the manufacturer has great confidence in the quality of the timing lights and guarantees them for three years. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do I want fatigue free time sequencing indicators?
- Do I want compact size?
- Do I want cordless, safe operation?
- Am I willing to spend a modest amount of funds for a device that will serve my needs?
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If so, click
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to purchase a timing light.
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