Arizer Solo II

[Little Bill]

been using mine at 428 and no combustion

Yes @Zow237 I think we all agree now that 428f (220c) should not cause combustion but boiling the THC might really thicken the vapor. I'll try it on the Solo 2 soon. What length stem do you use at that temp?

Also I would love to know what was causing your headaches if it is not too embarrassing to discuss.

@area50one thanks for the link you provided,

 

[dynospec]

@Little Bill I personally only go up to 428 when using a water tool, but I use 410 through the short stem (90mm) without water frequently and dont find it to be overly irritating/harsh

 

[Zow237]

Yes @Zow237 I think we all agree now that 428f (220c) should not cause combustion but boiling the THC might really thicken the vapor. I'll try it on the Solo 2 soon. What length stem do you use at that temp?

Also I would love to know what was causing your headaches if it is not too embarrassing to discuss.

@area50one thanks for the link you provided,

I have neck problems and anything with the restriction causes my neck muscles to cramp up and give me a headache. Have used the short and long at 428 but prefer long. The load was just to tight n grind was to fine? I think idk

 

[Pepus]

No need to guess, we know. NCR19650s make the pack so it's nominally 7.4 Volts at 3400mAh. Solo II uses about 2000mAh of that capacity (Solo I uses about 1000mAh of the 'available' 2200). This is the Solo II pack:

You can see the capacity on it. Here's Solo I:

So, to recharge, you need a 12VDC bank and will use about 2 Amp Hours of capacity for a complete recharge. This pack (used by LED lighting guys) does just fine:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ME3ZH7C/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I reported on it in the Solo thread a while back (year and a half?). It recharges Solo I over ten times, should do at least half that many on Solo II, more if you recharge before it hits bottom of course.

OF

Hi OF, I looked up for that information and couldn't find it. Following your advice I looked for something similar in my country's Amazon. I like the 5V function but the ones which have it are heavier, about 0.75 pounds. I have found this one which is close to yours and half the weigh, but almost double the price!

https://www.amazon.es/gp/product/6040387866/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A17M1OH9UAKGE7&psc=1

So, according to your calculations (I really don't understand how it works) it might be able to charge the solo II about 5 times or even more, am I right?

I'm loving this little big monster! I'm getting big clouds easier than with my old Air, but continue needing more than 20 minutes to get out all the vapor from a single load, so my sessions are long and not always arrive to the end of the day.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

 

[area50one]

I have neck problems and anything with the restriction causes my neck muscles to cramp up and give me a headache. Have used the short and long at 428 but prefer long. The load was just to tight n grind was to fine? I think idk

Try a looser packing and lower temp. Just dab it with your index finger and leave it 1 to 1.5 mm from the top of the glass filler tube. It needs air to take everything out. Increase your temperature as the session progresses or you feel you need more. Work on it and you'll hit your sweet spot that works for you. I might add, you can put an unbroken nug, no grinding necessary in the stem fill area and it will still work wonders. Good Luck!

 

[JCharles]

They have worked just fine, then all of a sudden Flashing Red/Yellow lights and dead. I submit an RMA online, send it back, and a day after they get it I receive an email that they've shipped something to me. I never get any other reply asking questions or telling me anything about problems with the units I've returned. This latest unit was the most short-lived one I've gotten. Hoping for much better luck with the Solo 2 - even after the initial issue.

I'm still impressed with 5 RDA

I have neck problems and anything with the restriction causes my neck muscles to cramp up and give me a headache. Have used the short and long at 428 but prefer long. The load was just to tight n grind was to fine? I think idk

Medium coarse grind - Super Weapon II does it best, ime
Straw fill, or stab fill with light finger tamp to 1mm or more from glass lip
Heat soak!! A good 30-45 seconds once at temp works for me
Long slow draw or a couple cigar puffs
Heat soak 30-60 seconds
Long slow draw or a couple cigar puffs
Heat soak....

Good luck- though I think I saw you had the unit up for sale in the classifieds for a great price.

 

[OF]

https://www.amazon.es/gp/product/6040387866/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A17M1OH9UAKGE7&psc=1

So, according to your calculations (I really don't understand how it works) it might be able to charge the solo II about 5 times or even more, am I right?

Yes , from what I see, that should work fine (after you sort out cables, etc of course). Looks similar to mine. Prices vary a lot, shop around some. Like I said the guys that set up LED lights for parties and dances use them a lot. EBay had some last I looked.

I recharged my Solo I ten normal charges (for me, after say 6 or 8 sessions per charge?). Solo II should easily get that same number of sessions?

I've also built packs for this, this is the one I first made for PD, but modified and use with Solo:

It normally lives in one of the pockets on the camera bag 'go bag'. If you're handy soldering.......

OF

 

[Zow237]

I'm still impressed with 5 RDA


Medium coarse grind - Super Weapon II does it best, ime
Straw fill, or stab fill with light finger tamp to 1mm or more from glass lip
Heat soak!! A good 30-45 seconds once at temp works for me
Long slow draw or a couple cigar puffs
Heat soak 30-60 seconds
Long slow draw or a couple cigar puffs
Heat soak....

Good luck- though I think I saw you had the unit up for sale in the classifieds for a great price.

My problem is I'll take a big rip n then go back almost right away and I'm realizing more heat soaks in between the better

 

[JCharles]

My problem is I'll take a big rip n then go back almost right and I'm realizing more heat soaks in between the better

You do need to be somewhat patient- or bump up the temp.

Even 2or 3 rips then a short heat soak will work.

 

[OF]

My problem is I'll take a big rip n then go back almost right away and I'm realizing more heat soaks in between the better

You do need to be somewhat patient- or bump up the temp.

Even 2or 3 rips then a short heat soak will work.

No offense guys, but think outside the box?

Put a Solo in each hand? Automatic heat soaks!

Of course you have to keep that whole 'left/right thing' straight.....

OF

 

[Little Bill]

No offense guys, but think outside the box?

Put a Solo in each hand? Automatic heat soaks!

Of course you have to keep that whole 'left/right thing' straight.....

OF

Well @OF I do like your idea, except I can barely keep up with one Solo 2.

 

[Pepus]

Yes , from what I see, that should work fine (after you sort out cables, etc of course). Looks similar to mine. Prices vary a lot, shop around some. Like I said the guys that set up LED lights for parties and dances use them a lot. EBay had some last I looked.

I recharged my Solo I ten normal charges (for me, after say 6 or 8 sessions per charge?). Solo II should easily get that same number of sessions?

I've also built packs for this, this is the one I first made for PD, but modified and use with Solo:

It normally lives in one of the pockets on the camera bag 'go bag'. If you're handy soldering.......

OF

Hi OF, I could solder, can I use a 3 18650 pack for recharge the solo 2 as well?

 

[OF]

Hi OF, I could solder, can I use a 3 18650 pack for recharge the solo 2 as well?

Yes, you can do just that. The 3 18650s have to be matched of course, but that's just what I did.

Solo II should still charge OK at 9.6 Volts (3.2 per cell) when all 3 cells are exhausted in a 'worst case'. Normally you'd recharge the pack at something like 10.5 Volts (3.5 per).

You can also buy 18650 holders with protective circuits built in (supply unprotected 18650s). You want a 3S1P configuration (3 series, one parallel). Like this one:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/1-x-3S1P-3...d=401158103202&_trksid=p2385738.c100677.m4598

OF

 

[Pepus]

Yes, you can do just that. The 3 18650s have to be matched of course, but that's just what I did.

Solo II should still charge OK at 9.6 Volts (3.2 per cell) when all 3 cells are exhausted in a 'worst case'. Normally you'd recharge the pack at something like 10.5 Volts (3.5 per).

You can also buy 18650 holders with protective circuits built in (supply unprotected 18650s). You want a 3S1P configuration (3 series, one parallel). Like this one:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/1-x-3S1P-3-7V-18650-Battery-Holder-Wire-w-Li-ion-PCM-Protection-Circuit-Module/401158103059?_trkparms=aid=222007&algo=SIM.MBE&ao=1&asc=20160908110712&meid=3006c7114f884118b21d72724d097e3a&pid=100677&rk=6&rkt=30&sd=401158103202&_trksid=p2385738.c100677.m4598

OF

OF, how do you charge the 3 batteries? do you use the same holder or outside it?

And about the official charger, it is 12V-1.5A, do you know if is it any problem to use a 12V-1A or a 12V-2A?

Sorry for so many ignorance...

 

[OF]

OF, how do you charge the 3 batteries? do you use the same holder or outside it?

And about the official charger, it is 12V-1.5A, do you know if is it any problem to use a 12V-1A or a 12V-2A?

Sorry for so many ignorance...

You must recharge them as individuals if you don't have a protection PCB. I use a four channel charger.

Maximum charge rate is about 1.3 Amps. Any rating over that is fine (same as normal appliances use only a fraction of the available power to do their jobs). If you provide less (say 1 Amp) it simply charges slower.

BTW I actually tested my Solo II for the above voltage numbers. It worked OK. My tests with Solo I were similar. With the OG Solo it's a bit more complex since it switches from charging to 'true PA' as the voltage is reduced. Not so Solo II.

Also BTW, remember to never solder directly to 18650s. Use holders or welded on tabs specially installed for this. Damage caused can force a failure later that can make the 18650 catch fire or blow up. Or both. Don't mess with them, they can bite and bite hard. Due respect is called for.

OF

 

[Pepus]

You must recharge them as individuals if you don't have a protection PCB. I use a four channel charger.

Maximum charge rate is about 1.3 Amps. Any rating over that is fine (same as normal appliances use only a fraction of the available power to do their jobs). If you provide less (say 1 Amp) it simply charges slower.

BTW I actually tested my Solo II for the above voltage numbers. It worked OK. My tests with Solo I were similar. With the OG Solo it's a bit more complex since it switches from charging to 'true PA' as the voltage is reduced. Not so Solo II.

Also BTW, remember to never solder directly to 18650s. Use holders or welded on tabs specially installed for this. Damage caused can force a failure later that can make the 18650 catch fire or blow up. Or both. Don't mess with them, they can bite and bite hard. Due respect is called for.

OF

Hi, I'm not sure if I'm getting it right , ido you mean that holder with protective circuits is not enough for be used as a charger?

And in order to prevent the battery to arrive to the bottom, what about to charge it when I have the opportunity, let's say at 80 or 50%, could it be inconvenient for the long term battery life?

Thanks!!

 

[OF]

Hi, I'm not sure if I'm getting it right , ido you mean that holder with protective circuits is not enough for be used as a charger?

And in order to prevent the battery to arrive to the bottom, what about to charge it when I have the opportunity, let's say at 80 or 50%, could it be inconvenient for the long term battery life?

No, it's not enough. You need a special charger as well if you want to charge them in place (much like Solo does with the PCB built into the battery pack:

The board is under the tape, between the 18650s. The white thing next to it is the thermal safety. The special 'two cell' charger is built into the Solo PCB and needs only 12 Volts to power it. In the battery pack I first suggested this is built into the 'wall wart', that's not a normal 12 Volts supply like comes with Solo.

Yes, early (partial) charges are to be recommended. What I normally do. Avoid going under 3.2 Volts/cell for any reason. Likewise never exceed 4.2. Longest possible battery life is found here.

OF

 

[dynospec]

Im definitely interested in getting one of the battery packs so I could charge my solo2 on the go, that one that you posted @OF how many times can you charge your solo2 with it give or take? Sorry if already answered.

Its not that Ive had any troubles with my solo2's battery running out on me while out or anything, just nice to have for when summer comes.

Sipping some lovely ice cream in my solo2 at current, its really nice. I dont know if Id had this strain or not before, but it is incredible highly recommend it. It is 60/40 Indica/sativa but has a very nice uplifting effect, which mellows out after a while.

 

[OF]

Im definitely interested in getting one of the battery packs so I could charge my solo2 on the go, that one that you posted @OF how many times can you charge your solo2 with it give or take? Sorry if already answered.

It depends widely on how you use it (how deep you discharge, etc). And which pack (I've shown two.....) of course.

The home made one should give a few recharges (assuming you use similar 18650s), at least a complete 'bottom to top' charge with some to spare. The Amazon version I tested and got 10 recharges as I normally do (run it most of the way down, recharge to about 80%) giving say 60 sessions extra? Solo II should give as many sessions but will recharge less times (more sessions per charge). I estimate at least five on Solo II, perhaps more?

A better way to look at it is probably based on sessions (stems), not recharges? Recharges gets mighty subjective mighty fast.

One advantage with the Amazon pack is it comes with a 'charge meter' so you can keep track of available reserves. I built a home made one with such a readout (they cost a few dollars as PCBs) which I ended up giving to a friend who needs such indicators to keep track of details......

Another option worth considering is a car cord. Not only can you charge from your (or anyone else's for that matter) car, but you can also plug that into one of those 12 Volt emergency jump start packs (some of which already have a cigarette lighter socket) for field use. The jump start box can be handy on it's own.........

OF

 

[JCharles]

Another option worth considering is a car cord. Not only can you charge from your (or anyone else's for that matter) car, but you can also plug that into one of those 12 Volt emergency jump start packs (some of which already have a cigarette lighter socket) for field use. The jump start box can be handy on it's own.........

OF

Great suggestion.

 

[OF]

Great suggestion.

Don't put too much stock in it. Shoot your mouth off enough and it's bound to happen.

If history is any guide I'll probably get another a year or so down the road. I hope I recognize it when it happens, I'd hate to miss it....... If I'm lucky, maybe someone will point it out to me when the time comes.

I used to use one of those emergency lights that charges full time and comes on in a power failure. It has a 8 Ah gel battery inside and came with a 50 Watt inverter (50 Watts of 110 Volt, 60 Hz power.....enough to run cell phone chargers and such) and cigarette lighter plug. I ran my PD on it for a year or so until I built the first pack. A car cord can come in handy, and can be plugged in RVs, boats and so on as well. You'll find one in my 'go bag' below (in one of the side pockets).....'just in case'.

OF

 

[dynospec]

Thanks for the advice, absolutely see how there is a tremendous amount of ambiguity to the number of charges. I will likely purchase one from amazon soon, and perhaps down the road attempt to make on like yours.

I simply like the idea of being able to charge while hiking or at a lake or something along those lines, but the suggestion of a car charger cord is also a great one.

I actually bought the solo2 because I was still cheating and combusting after I got my EQ whenever I was away from the house for long periods of time I would bring joints with me, and so I wasnt committed to vaporizing yet and that was leaving me with lackluster effects. I got the solo2, cut out the combusting and havent looked back. Whats funny though is that I notice vaporizing lasts so much longer now, that I often dont bring the solo2 out unless Im going to be out for 4+ hours.

I think Im gonna have some more of that ice cream, but Im gonna start it out at 165c and get the flavors! This strain has such an amazing aroma and flavour.

 

[OF]

I simply like the idea of being able to charge while hiking or at a lake or something along those lines, but the suggestion of a car charger cord is also a great one.

I actually bought the solo2 because I was still cheating and combusting after I got my EQ whenever I was away from the house for long periods of time I would bring joints with me, and so I wasnt committed to vaporizing yet and that was leaving me with lackluster effects.

Understood. It can give a lot of freedom for sure.

FWIW you might consider the VapMan. A low cost backup that's outstanding and fun in it's own way. Being heated by a torch type lighter it has basically unlimited 'battery life'. It took me nearly a year to empty the can of fuel I've been using. It's a very intimate vape, super efficient and IMO really in it's element 'in the great outdoors'. A personal favorite, especially when it's time to supervise the garden.....

Neat design, got that 'steampunk' flavor. Organic shape, hand made in Switzerland of the finest materials for the job. Some of us own a couple (fancy woods and all), very strong following. Can do concentrates with special screens.

Regards to all.

OF

 

[dynospec]

Very intrigued in the VapMan, just looked it up and read a little bit about it neat looking device. Im also really interested in getting a VapCap, but this would be nice for in the garden for sure where as I would use the VapCap as a more portable device (not that the VapMan doesnt seem quite portable aswell.)

Ive yet to get a chance to vape and garden, I cant wait since I love gardening already! No doubt my solo2 and whatever else I have acquired by the time the frozen wastes have transformed back into sunny paradise will be nice company out there.

 

[OF]

Very intrigued in the VapMan, just looked it up and read a little bit about it neat looking device. Im also really interested in getting a VapCap, but this would be nice for in the garden for sure where as I would use the VapCap as a more portable device (not that the VapMan doesnt seem quite portable aswell.)

Don't overestimate the VM size. If you read the thread "this thing is really tiny" is like the third most popular statement. It's bitty, like golf ball size.

VC is smaller in diameter (but longer), also tiny really. I couldn't get the kind of control I wanted with it, the clicks didn't really work. Most seem to get satisfactory results. VM, OTOH, is very much under user control. You develop a rhythm of say 'heat for a four count' (my technique) as a base, adding time if the last hit seemed weak. Read the thread, it's chock full of happy owners amazed at how much useful vapor comes from such a small load. IMO it's right up with stem vapes and MFLB in terms of efficiency.

Besides, how many other things do you have made of Pear wood? To call it 'a work of art' is not far off the mark IMO.

There's also a basic model, without the mica shield and wood finish. Lots of guys really like them, the wood slowly chars with use. I didn't care for mine, so I loan that one out. It works fine of course, but the mica sheet held in with those tiny screws 'just fits'.

Enjoy your Solo II, it's a great vape for sure. Spring is coming, the garden will be waiting for you.

OF