>Is there a simple non-PIC solution to reduce this stress or reduce the
>230V down by 10% (which would significantly increases bulb life) for
>a 60W bulb. A series resistor sounds like it should work, but are there
>any real safety concerns with a few watts of heat and/or regulations
>that prohibit this

use a high efficiency bulb. They provide more light, last longer and produce
less heat. Because of this you can usually use the highest wattage one you can
obtain in any desk lamp. The worst things about them is the shape and price.

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