This joins the radiometer and 4" prism as one of the basic sun toys that everyone should have. It's a fun design with a transparent case, exposed motor, different colored gears, and counter rotating crystals. It looks to be quite well made, and I was pleased to find that its large built-in suction cup does a good job. Up close you hear a little whirring sound (not objectionable) from the motor and high speed gear, but from across the room it runs silently. Its speed doesn't vary with the intensity of the light, it either runs or it doesn't run. Occasionally it will click for a few seconds as the shadow of the sun passes over it.
I saw one reviewer who said the single crystal unit worked fine, but the double unit was underpowered and would barely rotate in bright sunlight. I don't find that to be the case at all, mine rotates even when the sun is partial obscured by clouds. As I write, it is late on a winter afternoon in New England with the sun low in the sky at 60 degrees off perpendicular, and my double unit is still running. I experimented and found it would even run when the solar cells were illuminated from the back!
Minor negatives --- Compared to the one big bright solar spectrum a 4" prism will throw on the wall, the spectrums from this thing are pretty small and dim, though the compensation is that there are many of them and they sweep around the room. When the sun is at the right angle, you have to expect that some of these 'rainbows' are going to pass over your eye, so you get a little flash now and then. It's more complicated than a prism or radiometer, so it's probably not going to live as long.
For those interested technically its solar panel is 4 cm x 2.5 cm = 10^-3 m^2 and looks to be five (1/2 V) cells in series. Since the power of bright sunlight is 1,000 w/m^2, if inexpensive solar cells with efficiency in the 5% to 10% range are used, the output power available to drive the DC motor would be 50 to 100 mw, or 20 to 40 ma @ 2.5V.
update --- It's now nine months since I put this on a window using the vacuum sucker and it's never fallen off! Still works fine too.
update2 --- Well after two years, it's showing its age. One crystal broke off when it fell and the gears are now sticking. I just ordered a replacement.
More technical--- When my new one arrived, I took apart my old one to look at the motor, which still works. (I am a motor control engineer.) The motor is not a DC motor with brushes, which is good as brushes wear out. It is a brushless AC PM (permanent magnet) motor that a finger test shows will spin in either direction (at roughly 200 RPM). The 2.5V from the solar cell is converted to AC by a tiny circuit board mounted above the coil. The board's active component(s) is covered by glop, but it is probably a single IC clocked by an external crystal, which seems like overkill.
Kikkerland Solar Powered Rainbow Maker – Prism Suncatcher, Fun Home Window Decor – Unique Gift for Christmas & Birthdays – Si
4.4 | 3,934 ratings
Price: 37.5
Last update: 12-17-2024
About this item
Experience Rainbow Magic: This innovative device harnesses solar power to create mesmerizing rainbow effects in any room; a fascinating addition to your home decor that instantly adds a touch of magic and wonder, this device rotates like a disco ball, expertly refracting sunlight to produce captivating, ever-changing rainbow patterns dancing around the room
Universal Charm to Brighten Your Day & Inspire Awe: Designed by David Dear, this visual delight offers a wonderful experience for the whole family, including pets; fascinating for cats, the moving rainbows add an extra layer of entertainment and enchantment to your furry friends' lives
RAINBOW MAGIC - Need help? Your Rainbowmaker might not be producing rainbows due to common issues like inadequate light, a jammed crystal gear, or dust and debris on the solar panel. This innovative device harnesses solar power to create mesmerizing rainbow effects in any room. This solar-powered device rotates like a disco ball, expertly refracting sunlight to produce captivating, ever-changing rainbow patterns dancing around the room.
Easy Installation (No Batteries Needed): Simply attach the Rainbow Maker to a sunny window with the included suction cup; there is no need for batteries or electricity, making it an environmentally friendly and hassle-free addition to your home that you can easily move around to spread the joy
The Perfect Gift: A unique and thoughtful gift idea, the Kikkerland Solar Powered Rainbow Maker is a versatile present that can bring a little extra sunshine into the lives of your family and friends — whether it's a birthday, housewarming gift, or spontaneous gesture
Universal Charm to Brighten Your Day & Inspire Awe: Designed by David Dear, this visual delight offers a wonderful experience for the whole family, including pets; fascinating for cats, the moving rainbows add an extra layer of entertainment and enchantment to your furry friends' lives
RAINBOW MAGIC - Need help? Your Rainbowmaker might not be producing rainbows due to common issues like inadequate light, a jammed crystal gear, or dust and debris on the solar panel. This innovative device harnesses solar power to create mesmerizing rainbow effects in any room. This solar-powered device rotates like a disco ball, expertly refracting sunlight to produce captivating, ever-changing rainbow patterns dancing around the room.
Easy Installation (No Batteries Needed): Simply attach the Rainbow Maker to a sunny window with the included suction cup; there is no need for batteries or electricity, making it an environmentally friendly and hassle-free addition to your home that you can easily move around to spread the joy
The Perfect Gift: A unique and thoughtful gift idea, the Kikkerland Solar Powered Rainbow Maker is a versatile present that can bring a little extra sunshine into the lives of your family and friends — whether it's a birthday, housewarming gift, or spontaneous gesture
Product information
| Product Dimensions | 2 x 1 x 6 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 4 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Kikkerland |
| ASIN | B000068UG6 |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Item model number | 1588 |
| Customer Reviews |
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars
(3,929)
4.4 out of 5 stars |
| Best Sellers Rank | #127 in Patio, Lawn & Garden (See Top 100 in Patio, Lawn & Garden) #1 in Garden Suncatchers |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Dishwasher compatible | No |
| Assembly required | No |
| Number of pieces | 1 |
| Batteries required | No |
| Import | Imported |
Top reviews from the United States
Donald E. FultonFun solar toy
Donald E. Fulton
Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2009
I saw one reviewer who said the single crystal unit worked fine, but the double unit was underpowered and would barely rotate in bright sunlight. I don't find that to be the case at all, mine rotates even when the sun is partial obscured by clouds. As I write, it is late on a winter afternoon in New England with the sun low in the sky at 60 degrees off perpendicular, and my double unit is still running. I experimented and found it would even run when the solar cells were illuminated from the back!
Minor negatives --- Compared to the one big bright solar spectrum a 4" prism will throw on the wall, the spectrums from this thing are pretty small and dim, though the compensation is that there are many of them and they sweep around the room. When the sun is at the right angle, you have to expect that some of these 'rainbows' are going to pass over your eye, so you get a little flash now and then. It's more complicated than a prism or radiometer, so it's probably not going to live as long.
For those interested technically its solar panel is 4 cm x 2.5 cm = 10^-3 m^2 and looks to be five (1/2 V) cells in series. Since the power of bright sunlight is 1,000 w/m^2, if inexpensive solar cells with efficiency in the 5% to 10% range are used, the output power available to drive the DC motor would be 50 to 100 mw, or 20 to 40 ma @ 2.5V.
update --- It's now nine months since I put this on a window using the vacuum sucker and it's never fallen off! Still works fine too.
update2 --- Well after two years, it's showing its age. One crystal broke off when it fell and the gears are now sticking. I just ordered a replacement.
More technical--- When my new one arrived, I took apart my old one to look at the motor, which still works. (I am a motor control engineer.) The motor is not a DC motor with brushes, which is good as brushes wear out. It is a brushless AC PM (permanent magnet) motor that a finger test shows will spin in either direction (at roughly 200 RPM). The 2.5V from the solar cell is converted to AC by a tiny circuit board mounted above the coil. The board's active component(s) is covered by glop, but it is probably a single IC clocked by an external crystal, which seems like overkill.
Images in this review
Amy Chumagic
jef St.It was great until it wasn’t…
Michele E.Works great
Mike WoodwardCute and interesting, but overpriced
Beverly MasudaIt works!
Barbara La BarberaDisappointed
Amazon Customer