> For startup, just use a resistor? Why didn't anyone
> mention this? I thought it was common knowledge. The
> cold filament has a very low resistance, and startups
> kill bulbs. A resistor that drops 5% volts at running
> will give a very soft start.
> 230v/60w=261mA, drop 5%=11.5v=44ohms@3w (use 10w or
> 2x5w). Remember a 5w resistor run at 1.5w will get
> quite hot. Keep them away from the bulb.

Thanks. I did think a resistor was feasible, if there weren't any
serious gotchas

> You will get *huge* bulb life improvement from this

And conversely at (if you reckon with the odd voltage surge
from time to time) or over the rated bulb voltage will drastically
reduce bulb life. On a smaller scale I picked up a new 3V torch
a few months ago and the bulb lasted about a minute. Only rated
for 2.4V, thanks very much Mr Manufacturer. Nice and bright it
was though ;-)  Put 3 white LEDs in, almost as good

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