The present invention is directed to methods of mounting a light source, such as, for example a high-efficiency, high-power solid state light source (e.g., a LED) within a handle of an endoscope. One of the methods of the present invention includes removing a portion of a package surrounding the light source to expose a light source chip, positioning the exposed light source adjacent to a chassis within the handle and in contact with an end of a light guide bundle, translating the light source with the exposed light source chip about the end of the light guide while measuring light output from an illumination (i.e., distal) end of the light guide bundle with a photodetector, and securing the exposed light source to the chassis at a position in which maximum light output is measured.