On 27/07/2011 00:32, Dwayne Reid wrote:
> I work with both single-pin and bi-pin 8' fluorescent tubes and
> fixtures regularly.  All are currently using old-style magnetic
> ballasts and all run from 120Vac / 60Hz.
>
> The bi-pin tubes and ballasts are so-called "high output" and are
> specified to run down to --20C.  I find that they reliably start down
> to about -30C but are dim until they warm up.  Single-pin tubes
> simply won't start when cold.
>
> Keep in mind that these are NOT simple choke-type ballasts with
> external starters, but rather, ballasts containing step-up
> transformer windings.  I don't recall the strike voltage on a bi-pin
> ballast but I do know its rather high.
>
> I don't often see choke-type ballasts used these days except for
> PL-type fixtures (the starter is built into the base of the tube).
>
All the standard fittings here are choke ballast + starter. A Ballast=20
with step-up transformer winding IMO is not

"old-style magnetic ballasts"


Old style is simply a series choke (inductor) and only works with bi-pin=20
(filament).

I wonder how much additional RFI the single pin tubes, especially the=20
"electronic" ballast variety create?

It's getting increasingly difficult to do "Radio" as regulators are not=20
enforcing EMI limits on SMPSUs, Electronic Ballasts,=20
Powerplug/homeplug/comtrend ethernet etc. A common "trick" is to submit=20
for test parts with RFI filtering and then leave it out later. Or in=20
case of mains communication devices to test one instead of pair, or=20
without data. I don't know what FCC is like these days, but Ofcom in UK=20
seems to think RF interference from CE marked goods is nothing to do=20
with them.

Also the  issue with CE is that there is no After import auditing and=20
Manufacturers can to an extent pick and choose what ever they want to=20
certify on.  I've seen plenty of the "dodgy" devices (noisy wallwart=20
SMPSU, CFL lamps, ALL ethernet over mains etc) with CSA and FCC marks=20
too though.
--=20
http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist
.