Sony has now added a battery powered light accessory for the Sony Reader. Price is set at $14.95. The light is made by Great Point Light, and appears to be equivalent to the black version of this model (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=BB&Product_Code=GP-02&Category_Code=greatpointlight) (GP-02), which shows a price of only $9.99.

Correction: The equivalent light is model GP-02-1164, which is also $14.95 at BiggerAndBetter (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-02-1164.html). It features a different texture for better protection and coloring that matches the Sony Reader.

The 2-LED light is Sony model PRSLIGHT01, and has a flexible neck which is important in order to properly position for coverage and minimum glare. I can confirm that light positioning is important after using a Z-light purchased at Borders. That light works well, but I do find myself desiring more flexibility in light placement.

The product description from Sony states "Say goodbye to strained eyes and hello to the PRSLIGHT01 Flex-Neck 2 LED light. The PRSLIGHT01 is ideal for the Portable Reader, notebook computers, books and just about anywhere you need extra light. Featuring a flexible metal neck and a strong soft-touch clip, this light can grip to most surfaces and bend to precise positions for all your needs. For added convenience, the head of the Flex-Neck fits into the clip and stows easily for travel. Two bright LED lights illuminate a large area, making tasks more enjoyable. Replaceable CR2032 lithium batteries are included and provide up to 20 hours of bright light."

Features:
* 20 Hours of Bright Light with included CR2032 lithium batteries
* Two LEDs
* Flex-Neck Design

The Sony Style site also indicates that the light is "in the process of being shipped to our retail partners. Please visit sonystyle.com or a Sony Style store near you to pre-order or purchase this product now." However, it's not clear if this is a default web page artifact at the store, or an indication that it will show up in non-Sony retail outlets.

The store also gives some "remarkable" extended warranty offers for this $15 light! These rates are obviously standard tier pricing, and it doesn't make much sense for this product:
* Standard Limited Warranty [$0]
* 2 Year Replacement Plan with Accidental Damage from Handling [$17.99]
* 3 Year Replacement Plan with Accidental Damage from Handling [$24.99]
* 2 Year Replacement Plan [$10.99]
* 3 Year Replacement Plan [$14.99]

While I wouldn't recommend the extended warranties, this looks like a nice option for a Sony Reader light. If you want to save a few dollars, you might consider checking out the Bigger And Better link above, but we do not yet have any confirmation that the products are equivalent. As indicated above, the cheaper light is not equivalent.

Thanks to Xtremegene for finding (http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9755) the accessory at the Sony Style site, and Karen for pointing out the product equivalencies! (Btw, the product mismatch in my original post was my error, not Karen's.)

Anyone have experiences with the equivalent B&B light? I know April said "it really doesn't work all that well." Is it uneven lighting? How does it affect the weight of the Reader?

I've got one. It works okay -- the light pattern is a bit small for the screen, it covers it, but, of course, it's dimmer at the edges. The light also throws a lot of light out to the sides, which bothers some folks. Barnes & Noble usually stocks them, if you want to hold one in your hand, but weight really isn't an issue on these lights, they're very, um ... (wait for it) ... light. :grin:

Replaceable CR2032 lithium batteries are included and provide up to 20 hours of bright light."

Everybody seem to overlook the continued cost of batteries. The "up to 20 hours..." is probably as optimistic as Sony's claim of "up to 7500 page turns on a charge!"

I don't know the cost for two of these batteries, but they ain't cheap! Replacing two every 20 hours of reading will really add up. For me, for example, that would be about every 4-5 days. You may want to buy a gross at a time. :D

I got the rechargeable 4-LED one, and while it still is not as bright as I'd hoped for, at least don't have to buy batteries every week or so.

Well on the B&B site for the same model they say "30 hours of light from 2 CR2032 batteries (included)". So is it 20 or 30?

As far as the cost, it does add to it, but they are pretty cheap - for example here (http://cgi.ebay.com/Wholesale-Lot-100-CR2032-3V-Lithium-Batteries-BA100_W0QQitemZ9738513900QQcmdZViewItem) is 100 of them for $20 shipped, .20 a battery.

A (very) quick survey shows them available singly for $3~$5. I agree that's not terribly cheap. :shrug:

Just in case anyone was thinking it, no, I am not a plant, spy, or otherwise nefarious agent of Sony. I just happened to be awake this late (again x_x) procrastinating on school work! :uhoh2: Good things come to those who are insomniacs. (I wish.)

As I mentioned in the other thread already, the use of CR2032 batteries sort of kills the appeal of this light. If y'all check my new avatar, I found a better place to put the NexxTech light while reading: on top of my LCD monitor, angled down towards the desk. :happy2: Sure, I can't lie down and enjoy reading in bed, but my setup for the light is highly versatile (three strips of tape), so I could hopefully just tape the light to the wall and angle it down. :D

20 hours of power for 2 LEDs? That doesn't sound right. What kind of sorry batteries have they got in there? A single AA could probably do better...

I'd much prefer the light-wedge type of illumination, this version's a bit bulky for travel and I'm not too sure of any eye strain that might be brought on from the reflection of the light off of the screen. Course I also don't find myself reading too much where a readily availble light source if not available.

20 hours of power for 2 LEDs? That doesn't sound right. What kind of sorry batteries have they got in there? A single AA could probably do better...They're "coin" types, they just don't have the reaction mass to last too long (though they are much more compact than AAs http://www.mobileread.com/forums/images/smiliesadd1/happy2.gif), 20 hours is actually pretty good for them. :shrug:

20 hours of power for 2 LEDs? That doesn't sound right. What kind of sorry batteries have they got in there? A single AA could probably do better...

I suspect they are using the 2032 to keep the cost and weight of the light down. White LED's need at least 4.5 volts to illuminate, which is pretty easy to get from two 3v lithium cells. You can either regulate it down (best) or just use a resistor (cheap).

If they used 1.5v batteries (AA or AAA) they'd need three or four (depending on the run time and LED life desired). If they only used one or two to keep the light compact they'd need a "boost regulator" to step up the voltage, which is more expensive.

The 2032's are available online for about 50 cents each in single quantities. I use a couple of flashlights that are powered by CR123 lithium batteries and it's a similar quandry; relatively cheap online ($1/battery), but Tesla help you if you have to buy one at Safeway ($7!!)

Your suspicion about AA capacity vs. a 2032 is spot on. An AA battery has around 0.9 WH (Watt-hours) of capacity vs. about 0.6 for a 2032. On the other hand an AA battery is about 8x the volume of a 2032 and 9x the weight.
The biggest thing the alkaline cells have going for them compared to primary lithium cells is relatively low cost and easy availability.

Cheers,
Bob

I'd much prefer the light-wedge type of illumination, this version's a bit bulky for travel and I'm not too sure of any eye strain that might be brought on from the reflection of the light off of the screen.

It does look a bit clunky, on the other hand, actually seeing the Reader in person gave me a much more favorable impression about its size and workability. I'll assume the same about the light. I'd be concerned about light reflection as well, so having some flexibility there would be key.

It does look a bit clunky, on the other hand, actually seeing the Reader in person gave me a much more favorable impression about its size and workability. I'll assume the same about the light. I'd be concerned about light reflection as well, so having some flexibility there would be key.

One assumption I don't have to make about the light:

Round light, rectangular book reader.

I would think a light designed for the Reader would at least not invoke the classic joke of round peg for square hole. :)

One assumption I don't have to make about the light:

Round light, rectangular book reader.

I would think a light designed for the Reader would at least not invoke the classic joke of round peg for square hole. :)

So, are you saying you want Sony to make a Reader with a round screen? :D

So, are you saying you want Sony to make a Reader with a round screen? :D
They know all about it. Are'nt they the ones who gave you the runaround on an other thread. :happy2:

How does the light fasten on to the Reader? It's not obvious from the picture.

It clips to the jacket.

We saw a pre-production version, and it does clip very nicely to the the case.

There is some room for the clip between the case and the back of the Reader because of the circular fastener in the middle of the back. If I remember correctly, you should also be able to clip it very firmly and conveniently to both sides of the cover together, with the front folded all the way around so the clip holds the cover open. I seem to remember that it was not an issue with the default cover, so I expect it's also not a problem with the upgraded covers offered by Sony.

The B&D fancy leather cover might be a different issue because it can't fold open completely, but I think it should work fine clipping onto just the back cover. I doubt it would damage the leather. Nathan may remember more detail...

I've got one of the original lights (more or less the same, but silver instead of black). You've pretty well nailed it on the description, Bob. Only thing I'd add is that Barnes & Noble usually stock the original silver version, so anyone near one of their stores can easily get a quick look at it.

It clips to the jacket.

Thanks! It looks quite nice, but I don't think I'll bother buying one simply because I don't find myself reading in places where lights are not available.

It's pretty rare for me too, Harry. 'Bout the only time I need a reading light is when we're visiting relatives who don't have reading lights on both sides of the bed. Somehow, I always end up on the 'other' side, but that's not a big deal when I've got one along with me. :grin:

I envy you.
You are lucky ones.
I have got a daily problem.
I always read before I fall asleep. However, my other half cannot sleep with the lights on. So, I had to make a makeshift wall from capboard and buy a special light with a clip to attach it to our headboard and point it away from my other half's direction. It improved the situation a little bit but not entirely. It is not completely dark in the room and she is not heppy with it :( So, I definitely need something else. I have tried 3 different from Watersonte (bookshop in the UK), they are so lame. Not enough light at all. I hope someone is going to sell something good in the UK so I can try it.

Anyone knows an alternative in the UK?

It is not completely dark in the room and she is not heppy with it :( So, I definitely need something else.Well, I s'pose you could try something like this (http://www.amazon.com/Comfortable-Satin-Lightweight-material-Sleep/dp/B000F3N6SK/sr=8-4/qid=1172170640/ref=pd_bbs_4/102-3158530-4645755?ie=UTF8&s=hpc) or this (http://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-Night-Vision-Goggle-Headgear/dp/B00006RZ42/sr=8-1/qid=1172170735/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-3158530-4645755?ie=UTF8&s=electronics). :grin:

Well, I s'pose you could try something like this (http://www.amazon.com/Comfortable-Satin-Lightweight-material-Sleep/dp/B000F3N6SK/sr=8-4/qid=1172170640/ref=pd_bbs_4/102-3158530-4645755?ie=UTF8&s=hpc) or this (http://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-Night-Vision-Goggle-Headgear/dp/B00006RZ42/sr=8-1/qid=1172170735/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-3158530-4645755?ie=UTF8&s=electronics). :grin:

Oh, great!
At least you have not suggested a new wife :crowngrin

Nah, a good wife is too hard to find. From what I've been told (I haven't looked myself, you understand), a good husband is even harder to find. I've got an excellent wife, who, fortunately, is completely unbothered by light when she's sleeping. :grin:

Nah, a good wife is too hard to find.

Agree :happy2:

OK - this lite's bright.. So bright actually that my girlfriend asked me to turn it off and use the bedside lamp..
-mark

Sony has now added a battery powered light accessory for the Sony Reader. Price is set at $14.95. The light is made by Great Point Light, and appears to be equivalent to the black version of this model (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=BB&Product_Code=GP-02&Category_Code=greatpointlight) (GP-02), which shows a price of only $9.99.

Correction: The equivalent light is model GP-02-1164, which is also $14.95 at BiggerAndBetter (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-02-1164.html). It features a different texture for better protection and coloring that matches the Sony Reader.

The 2-LED light is Sony model PRSLIGHT01, and has a flexible neck which is important in order to properly position for coverage and minimum glare. I can confirm that light positioning is important after using a Z-light purchased at Borders. That light works well, but I do find myself desiring more flexibility in light placement.

The product description from Sony states "Say goodbye to strained eyes and hello to the PRSLIGHT01 Flex-Neck 2 LED light. The PRSLIGHT01 is ideal for the Portable Reader, notebook computers, books and just about anywhere you need extra light. Featuring a flexible metal neck and a strong soft-touch clip, this light can grip to most surfaces and bend to precise positions for all your needs. For added convenience, the head of the Flex-Neck fits into the clip and stows easily for travel. Two bright LED lights illuminate a large area, making tasks more enjoyable. Replaceable CR2032 lithium batteries are included and provide up to 20 hours of bright light."

Features:
* 20 Hours of Bright Light with included CR2032 lithium batteries
* Two LEDs
* Flex-Neck Design

The Sony Style site also indicates that the light is "in the process of being shipped to our retail partners. Please visit sonystyle.com or a Sony Style store near you to pre-order or purchase this product now." However, it's not clear if this is a default web page artifact at the store, or an indication that it will show up in non-Sony retail outlets.

The store also gives some "remarkable" extended warranty offers for this $15 light! These rates are obviously standard tier pricing, and it doesn't make much sense for this product:
* Standard Limited Warranty [$0]
* 2 Year Replacement Plan with Accidental Damage from Handling [$17.99]
* 3 Year Replacement Plan with Accidental Damage from Handling [$24.99]
* 2 Year Replacement Plan [$10.99]
* 3 Year Replacement Plan [$14.99]

While I wouldn't recommend the extended warranties, this looks like a nice option for a Sony Reader light. If you want to save a few dollars, you might consider checking out the Bigger And Better link above, but we do not yet have any confirmation that the products are equivalent. As indicated above, the cheaper light is not equivalent.

Thanks to Xtremegene for finding (http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9755) the accessory at the Sony Style site, and Karen for pointing out the product equivalencies! (Btw, the product mismatch in my original post was my error, not Karen's.)

OK - this lite's bright.. So bright actually that my girlfriend asked me to turn it off and use the bedside lamp..

Good news. I am going to wait till Sony start selling the reader in the UK, then I am going to try this light (if it doesn't suit me I can easily return it vs. buying it from the USA).

You know I ended up purchasing this one and actually it's not that bad. Much better than the single little lens and IMO it lights up the whole screen well enough to see. I got the red one in anticipation of my RED leather jacket that doesn't exist yet ;)

http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-03.html

You know I ended up purchasing this one and actually it's not that bad. Much better than the single little lens and IMO it lights up the whole screen well enough to see. I got the red one in anticipation of my RED leather jacket that doesn't exist yet ;)

http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-03.html

I think I tried this one about one year ago with hardback book. Didn't like it. Maybe I should give it another chance because reader is smaller than book.

Well if you have it, it's worth tryng. I found it much better than what I had. This one throws quite a bit of light.

No, I don't have it anymore. It went back to a bookshop on the next day. Maybe they still sell it, I dunno.

hmmmm, well that changes things... ;(

I use that 3 LED light mentioned above, and it is not bad, but I wouldn't recommend it.

It throws out enough light without much glare, but there are a few problems:

-Sometimes the light will turn off when swiveling the top part.

-It uses 2 CR2450 batteries, which are not as easy to find in stores as other types (such as CR2032s).

-The clip doesn't fit that well on the thicker cover and I feel like it is going to snap off one of these days if I am not careful.


I might go ahead and try this PRSLIGHT01. Hopefully someday they will come out with a LightWedge for the Reader.

This is why I love these forums. I was considering purchasing the light from Sony, but refused to pay $7.00 shipping for a $15 item. As suggested I went to Barnes and Noble and found the Great Point Light for $12.99. No shipping cost, and the instant gratification of having it NOW. Heh heh heh. I think the light works great. Extremely compact, light weight, and gives great screen coverage. I would definitely recommend.

I use that 3 LED light mentioned above, and it is not bad, but I wouldn't recommend it.

It throws out enough light without much glare, but there are a few problems:

-Sometimes the light will turn off when swiveling the top part.

-It uses 2 CR2450 batteries, which are not as easy to find in stores as other types (such as CR2032s).

-The clip doesn't fit that well on the thicker cover and I feel like it is going to snap off one of these days if I am not careful.


I might go ahead and try this PRSLIGHT01. Hopefully someday they will come out with a LightWedge for the Reader.

I did notice that the batteries looked large. I bought a spare pair at the time I bought the light. guess I will see in the future what happens.

This is why I love these forums. I was considering purchasing the light from Sony, but refused to pay $7.00 shipping for a $15 item. As suggested I went to Barnes and Noble and found the Great Point Light for $12.99. No shipping cost, and the instant gratification of having it NOW. Heh heh heh. I think the light works great. Extremely compact, light weight, and gives great screen coverage. I would definitely recommend.
Is it this (http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?z=y&EAN=9781932836851&itm=13) one?

I think he's talking about this one (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-02-1164.html), vvaann. :nice:

No vvaan, it's the one Natch linked to., basically the Sony one but my clip is gray, not black.

For those in the United States who are looking to save some money, walmart.com sells this light for $11.22 plus 97 cents for shipping.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5279895

For those in the United States who are looking to save some money, walmart.com sells this light for $11.22 plus 97 cents for shipping. I think that's the best price I've seen for it yet.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5279895

I use that 3 LED light mentioned above, and it is not bad, but I wouldn't recommend it.

It throws out enough light without much glare, but there are a few problems:

-Sometimes the light will turn off when swiveling the top part.I'm having trouble with this light, too. The tiniest jiggle of the reader causes the light brightness to variably dim, or even turn off. I find myself tapping the side of the reader with my finger while I read, trying to keep the light steady on. Is anyone else having this problem?

Sounds like a bad connection (i.e. loose wiring), to me. :(

I'm having trouble with this light, too. The tiniest jiggle of the reader causes the light brightness to variably dim, or even turn off. I find myself tapping the side of the reader with my finger while I read, trying to keep the light steady on. Is anyone else having this problem?


Yes I had it but I fixed it. I modified mine so it could dim in 4 levels. But I also fixed the problem that you are describing.

The joint sockets have a little metal contact plate(on the picture, right):

http://www.mobileread.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=1997

The other side (the frame) has a little wire that makes contact with that plate. Because the pressure is too low it will dim or even go off. I bend the wires outwards so it applies more pressure on the contact plates and that solves the problem. You need to be technical to do it since you have to take it apart on the side of the base with the batteries and the side of the LED's.
Because both sides have the joints and contact plates.

Is it the same light as you can buy on sony website?

Black/Silver 2 LED Flex-Neck Clip-on Reading Light - $12.95 (http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?z=y&EAN=9781599850092&itm=9)

Black 2 LED Flex-Neck Clip-On Reading Light - $9.99 (http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?z=y&EAN=9781932836875&itm=10)

Flex Neck Tech Light - $14.99 (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-02-1164.html)

Is it the same light as you can buy on sony website?

Black/Silver 2 LED Flex-Neck Clip-on Reading Light - $12.95 (http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?z=y&EAN=9781599850092&itm=9)

Black 2 LED Flex-Neck Clip-On Reading Light - $9.99 (http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?z=y&EAN=9781932836875&itm=10)

Flex Neck Tech Light - $14.99 (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-02-1164.html)Those three are, indeed, the same as the one on the Sony site -- the coloration differs is all.

Placed an order for $9.99.
I hope to receive it within 1-3 weeks.

anybody tried this light? If you have,does it fit well on the reader? how well does it light. I like this light a lot cause its rechargeable

http://www.amazon.com/ReLight-Rechargeable-Book-Light/dp/1599850168

It fits fine. I personally found the light insufficient for my needs, I had to move it around to see the whole page.

I eventually settled on a light that used a full spectrum CCFL light and AA batteries (I use rechargables 'cause it's a bit of a battery hog). The one I bought is made by MightyBright, but Verilux also makes one, and its design is perhaps a bit better for the Reader. If you're interested, a forum search for Verilux, should find you pix and details on it in short order. :nice:

I have it and it works ok if you attach it on the side (right side cover above the turn page buttons). It is very portable and I also like the fact it is rechargeable. I consider it a good light to carry in a bag or pocket while traveling etc - but for reading at home (for those times I need to read in dark room) i'm still looking for something better.

If i am from Australia, do they ship international? If not where else can i buy it that ships internationally..

You can get them directly from Bigger And Brighter (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/items/GP-02.html), they're the folks who actually make them. Their shipping policy (http://www.biggerandbrighter.com/book-lights-magnifiers/catalog/shipping.html) says they ship internationally, and I imagine that Australia would be on their list. :D

However, I'd suggest you read around a bit before you order, most folks aren't real happy with the results they get from these lights, and there are a number of others discussed in numerous threads that folks are much happier with. :nice: