> -----Original Message-----
> From: Wagner Lipnharski [SMTP:wagner@USTR.NET]
> Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2003 9:31 PM
> To:   PICLIST@MITVMA.MIT.EDU
> Subject:      Re: [OT]:  flourescent light switch
>
> rad0 wrote:
> > { OR how do the new fluorescent light switches work?}
> >
> > I have a fluorescent light, the kind with a big magnifying glass,
> > that has a switch that you must hold in while the thing starts up.
> >
> > I was looking around at new lights and I noticed the new ones
> > have a toggle switch that it appears you just turn the thing on, and
> > it goes.
> >
> > I'm wondering if I can use a pic to modify my old light to a
> > non-press and hold type of switch.  OR how do the new
> > fluorescent light switches work?
> >
> > If I can't modify this old lamp, I going to take it out and smash
> > it on the side-walk.  I'll take digital photos for you.
> > (just kidding)
>
>
> The trick it is not about the switch, this is about the reactor and
> starter, they call it "instant", or "rapid-start", including electronic
> systems or not.
> Check http://www.ustr.net/electronics/fluorescent.shtml
>
> Wagner.
>
The lamps that have a switch that has to be held in don't have a starter at
all IME, not even the old gas filled type.  Pushing the switch all the way
down simulates the action of the starter, heating the elements in the ends
of the tube.  When you let go the ballast provides enough voltage to strike
the tube.  It shouldn't be hard to put a normal starter in the circuit, IF
you can find one of a suitable rating for such a tiny tube.  Alternatively,
you may be able to steal the guts of a compact flourescent lamp and use that
to drive the tube, they are becommming very cheap and have an "electronic
ballast", effectievly a small switched mode supply that can produce enough
voltage to start the lamp very quickly.

Regards

Mike

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