What are different starters for fluorescent tubes?
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What are different starters for fluorescent tubes?
Listed below are the 3 most common types of fluorescent starter:
- Series Twin Tube. FS2 Series Starter. Up to 22W. For use with fittings with multiple fluorescent tubes.
- Single Tube Starter. FSU Universal. 4W to 65W. 2ft 18W, 3ft 30W, 4ft 36W and 5ft 58W fluorescent tubes.
- Single Tube Starter. FS125. 70W to 125W.
How does fluorescent tube starter work?
When you turn on a fluorescent tube, the starter is a closed switch. The filaments at the ends of the tube are heated by electricity, and they create a cloud of electrons inside the tube. When it opens, the voltage across the tube allows a stream of electrons to flow across the tube and ionize the mercury vapor.
What are the different type of fluorescent ballast?
There are two basic types of fluorescent ballasts: magnetic (low frequency) and electronic (high frequency). Most fluorescent ballasts are now electronic, which are more efficient than magnetic ballasts.
Do all fluorescent tubes have starters?
Not all fluorescent lights have starters, but if yours does, it will usually be located near a tube socket. Lights with more than one tube have a separate starter for each. Fluorescent lights designed without starters are called rapid-starting lights, and this designation is usually printed or stamped on them.
What is S2 starter?
The S2 Fluorescent Starter is commonly used for igniting fluorescent lighting fixtures that have an electro-magnetic ballast. These S2 Fluorescent Starters are also referred to as glow switch starters.
Where is the starter in a fluorescent light?
The starter is located on the lamp frame (there are typically two starters). When you turn on the light switch, the starter sends a jolt of electricity to the gas inside the fluorescent bulb.
What is the difference between a ballast and transformer?
A transformer changes the amperage and / or voltage. It literally “Transforms” electrical energy. A ballast is like a capacitor. The electrical ballast stores energy in the same way that a water ballast stores water for stability.
What is the difference between rapid start and instant start ballast?
Rapid start configurations have two wires connected to each side of the lamp. There is a small voltage between the two wires that is used to provide heat to the lamp’s cathodes. With an instant start configuration, a high voltage pulse is used to start the arc between the lamp’s cathodes.
What is the difference between a ballast and a starter?
In older fluorescent fixtures, the ballast, or choke, is a transformer that limits the current flowing into the tube, while the starter provides the high voltage needed to excite the tube when it is turned on.