Competition Electronics Indoor Light Review

Everything I Learned from the Competition Electronics Indoor Light

As someone who has spent over a decade wrestling with gear in everything from dusty workshops to sterile labs and unpredictable outdoor environments, I’ve developed a keen sense for what works and what’s just marketing fluff. My own journey with chronographs, specifically the quest for accurate indoor velocity readings, led me to the Competition Electronics Indoor Light. The core problem was simple: no matter how well my ProChrono performed outdoors, indoor shooting sessions, especially in my basement range, were plagued by unreliable shot detection. This often meant frustrating sessions where half the data was lost, rendering the chronograph almost useless for serious analysis.

I’d seen these light systems before and, frankly, resisted. My initial thought was that I could probably rig up some sort of DIY solution, or that these dedicated lights wouldn’t offer much of an improvement over ambient light or simple desk lamps. I even spent time sketching out elaborate setups, wasting precious range time on prototypes that never quite worked. The price point also gave me pause; $69.99 for what seemed like a couple of LED strips felt steep. However, after one too many frustrating sessions where I missed critical data, I decided it was time to bite the bullet. A quick look at alternatives revealed mostly more complex industrial lighting solutions, so sticking with the Competition Electronics ecosystem seemed the most straightforward path. My first impression upon unboxing was one of pragmatic simplicity; it looked like it would do the job without unnecessary frills.

Real-World Testing: Putting Competition Electronics Indoor Light to the Test

My testing grounds for this light system were primarily my own basement shooting range, a space that’s consistently lit but prone to the kind of low-light conditions where optical chronographs can falter. I also took it out to a covered outdoor range, hoping to simulate less-than-ideal natural lighting. The setup process was remarkably straightforward. It involves clipping the two light bars onto the guide wires of the ProChrono and then plugging in the adapter. Within minutes, I had a functional indoor lighting setup ready to go.

The system is designed to work with infrared LEDs, which is a clever approach to avoid interfering with the chronograph’s optical sensors while providing a consistent light source. This infrared technology is crucial for eliminating reliance on ambient light conditions, which can fluctuate wildly even indoors depending on time of day or artificial light sources. I found that once attached and powered, the indoor light system worked flawlessly in my basement. Every single shot was registered accurately, providing a consistent stream of velocity data that I had been missing for so long. Even when I deliberately dimmed the overhead lights to near darkness, the Competition Electronics Indoor Light unit maintained perfect performance.

First Use Experience

My first few sessions with the Competition Electronics Indoor Light were a revelation. The sheer ease of use was immediately apparent. No more fiddling with external lamps that cast shadows or trying to position my chronograph just right to catch the best natural light. The system simply attaches to the existing guide wires of the chronograph, making it an integrated part of the setup. This made moving the ProChrono between indoor and outdoor use significantly faster, as the light bars were always ready to go.

The only minor quirk I encountered initially was ensuring the power adapter was securely plugged in. It’s a standard wall adapter, and while it performed reliably, I did have one instance where it felt slightly loose, leading to a moment of panic before I realized I just needed to push it in a bit firmer. This was a user error, not a product flaw, but it highlighted the importance of checking all connections when you’re relying on electronic equipment for accurate data. The light bars themselves felt reasonably durable, made of what seems to be a robust plastic housing. I haven’t dropped them, but they feel like they could withstand a minor bump or two.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in my basement range, the Competition Electronics Indoor Light has proven itself to be a reliable and essential accessory. I’ve run hundreds of rounds through my ProChrono with this system active, and the shot detection rate remains at 100%. This level of consistency is exactly what I needed to get usable data from my indoor shooting sessions. The infrared LEDs show no signs of dimming or degradation, and the connection ports on the light bars feel as secure as they did on day one.

Maintenance is practically non-existent, which is a huge plus. A quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is all that’s ever needed to keep them clean, even if they get a bit dusty from the workshop environment. Storing them is also simple; they detach easily and can be stored alongside the chronograph without taking up much extra space. Compared to my previous attempts at DIY lighting solutions, which were cumbersome, unreliable, and often required constant adjustment, this dedicated system is a night-and-day difference. It’s freed up mental energy that used to be spent troubleshooting lighting and allowed me to focus purely on the shooting itself.

Breaking Down the Features of Competition Electronics Indoor Light

The Competition Electronics Indoor Light system is designed with a singular purpose: to provide consistent and reliable illumination for optical chronographs in indoor environments. Its infrared LED technology is the key innovation, ensuring that the chronograph can accurately detect projectiles passing through its sensors without interference from ambient light or reflections. This approach bypasses the need for bulky, heat-generating bulbs and offers a more stable, focused light source.

The system consists of two light bars that attach to the ProChrono’s guide wires, a power adapter, and the necessary cables to connect everything. The primary benefit is the elimination of “no-read” shots that plague indoor chronograph use when relying solely on ambient light. For anyone serious about collecting accurate velocity data in a basement, garage, or any indoor shooting space, this accessory moves from “nice-to-have” to “essential.”

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Competition Electronics
• Color: White (referring to the housing of the light bars and adapter, not the light emission itself, which is infrared).
• Adapter Input: 100-240 volts AC 50-60Hz – This universal input voltage range means the adapter can be used in virtually any country with the appropriate plug adapter, which is a thoughtful inclusion for a global market.
• Light Arc Input/Adapter Output: 24 VDC 200mA – This clearly defines the operating voltage and current required by the light bars, ensuring compatibility and proper power delivery for optimal performance. It’s a relatively low power draw, making it efficient.
• Power Consumption: Approx. 200mA (100 mA per arc) – This indicates that each of the two light bars consumes about 100mA, for a total of 200mA for the entire system. This low power draw is beneficial, especially if considering battery power options (though not included).
• Compatibility: Works with all Prochrono models – This is a critical specification, ensuring that users with any generation of the popular ProChrono chronograph can integrate this lighting solution without issue.
• Features: Portable and quick setup – The design prioritizes ease of deployment, allowing users to get up and running in minutes.

These specifications paint a clear picture of a purpose-built accessory. The 24 VDC 200mA output from the adapter is specific and ensures the LEDs operate within their intended parameters for both brightness and longevity. The 100-240 volts AC input on the adapter makes it versatile for travel or international use, a detail often overlooked but greatly appreciated by those who shoot in different locations. The approx. 200mA total power consumption is modest, meaning it won’t draw significant power from your outlet.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Competition Electronics Indoor Light is to provide a consistent light source for the chronograph’s sensors. It succeeds at this mission exceptionally well. In my indoor range, where ambient light can be inconsistent or insufficient, this system turned “no-read” shots into a thing of the past. Every single bullet passing through the chronograph’s optical gates was registered, providing a clean and complete data set. This level of performance is critical for anyone who relies on accurate ballistic data, whether for load development, competition analysis, or simply tracking performance.

The infrared nature of the LEDs is key here. Unlike visible light sources that can cause glare or reflections that interfere with optical sensors, infrared is invisible to the human eye but perfectly detectable by the chronograph’s sensors. This leads to more reliable and consistent readings, especially when shooting darker projectiles or in varying light conditions. The system does exactly what it’s designed to do, and it does it without fuss.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Competition Electronics Indoor Light is purely functional and driven by its application. The light bars themselves are slim and made of a durable, likely ABS plastic. They attach securely to the guide wires of the ProChrono using a simple clip mechanism that feels robust enough for repeated attachment and detachment. There are no complex buttons or controls; it’s plug-and-play.

The power adapter is a standard wall wart type, with a decent length cord connecting it to the light bars. While the design is not aesthetically groundbreaking, it’s practical and unobtrusive. It doesn’t add significant bulk or complexity to the chronograph setup. The ergonomics are excellent in the sense that it’s incredibly easy to attach and detach, making setup and takedown very quick. There’s no learning curve; you simply clip them on and plug them in.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the materials used, the Competition Electronics Indoor Light appears to be built for longevity. The plastic housing of the light bars feels solid and resistant to minor impacts. The LED components are sealed within, offering protection against dust and occasional workshop grime. I haven’t encountered any signs of wear or tear, such as flickering LEDs or loose connections, even after months of use.

Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. A quick wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth is sufficient to keep them clean. There are no moving parts that require lubrication or adjustment. The only potential point of failure would be the power adapter or the cables, but these are standard components that are relatively easy to replace if they were to fail. Overall, this is a low-maintenance accessory designed for consistent performance over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Competition Electronics Indoor Light system comes with the essential components needed for operation: the two light bars, the power adapter, and the connecting cables. There are no additional accessories included, and there isn’t really any scope for customization in terms of adding different light colors or intensities, as it’s specifically designed for infrared.

The primary “customization” is its integration with the ProChrono line. The system is designed to attach directly to the chronograph’s guide wires, which are standard across ProChrono models. While some users might wish for a battery-powered option for true portability away from wall power, the current setup is optimized for stability and consistent power delivery. The simplicity of the design means there aren’t many parts to swap or modify, which aligns with its “just works” philosophy.

Pros and Cons of Competition Electronics Indoor Light

Who Should Buy Competition Electronics Indoor Light?

This indoor lighting system is an absolute must-have for any Competition Electronics ProChrono owner who shoots indoors with any regularity. If you have a basement range, a garage setup, or shoot in any environment where consistent natural or artificial light is an issue, this product will fundamentally change your chronograph experience for the better. It’s ideal for reloaders who need accurate velocity data for load development, competition shooters who analyze their performance, and hobbyists who just want complete and reliable data from every session.

However, if you primarily shoot outdoors in bright, consistent sunlight, or if you own a chronograph from a different manufacturer, this specific accessory may not be necessary or compatible. For those who do need it, I highly recommend pairing it with a reliable extension cord for your indoor range setup, as wall outlets can sometimes be awkwardly placed. It’s also worth ensuring you have a good quality power strip to manage all your electronic gear if you’re running multiple accessories.

Conclusion on Competition Electronics Indoor Light

The Competition Electronics Indoor Light system is a prime example of a product that brilliantly solves a specific, common problem for its user base. For anyone who has struggled with inconsistent shot detection on an optical chronograph indoors, this accessory is nothing short of a game-changer. The infrared LED technology is perfectly implemented, the setup is incredibly simple, and the performance is consistently reliable, delivering 100% shot registration in conditions that would otherwise render a chronograph useless.

While the $69.99 price tag might initially give some pause, especially when viewed as just “lights,” the value it provides in terms of accurate data collection and time saved from troubleshooting is easily justifiable. It transforms indoor shooting sessions from frustrating guesswork into productive data-gathering opportunities. I wholeheartedly recommend the Competition Electronics Indoor Light to any ProChrono owner looking to unlock the full potential of their chronograph in any indoor environment. It’s an investment in consistent, reliable performance that pays for itself with every perfectly recorded shot.