First, the debacle. “So what” I said, “if the tag says ‘no user serviceable parts.’ I can replace batteries, can’t I?” These statements came as I looked at my now defunct Belkin 900maH UPSs. So I ordered batteries, and proceeded to install them. On reassembly, a few contacts touched, we had a few sparks, no big deal. Discretion being the better part of valor, however, led me to moving the UPS to the garage before I plugged it into the AC power. That was a good thing.

Smoke. Sparks. Quickly, I pulled the plug. So they weren’t kidding about the problems with user servicing. Perhaps the need to bend the case to replace the batteries should have tipped me off.

So here I am with two new 7aH sealed lead-acid batteries. I then I check the old ones with my multi-meter and they seem fine. They took a charge, anyway.

Off to B&B Hardware and Marvac Electronics for parts. The real find was at B&B (of course). A 14 watt halogen floodlight. Just the thing to provide good, bright light to make flats! So the project is this. Build a holder for the batteries and the light. The light will shine against a white surface and from there to the white towel that I use for flats.

OK, why 12 volt-based? Because I have the batteries. It will be portable, low tempurature, low risk. I think. We’ll see.