Questions tagged [ballast]
41 questions
5
votes
1 answer
Using Oscilloscope So That Nothing Blows Up
I want to see the input current waveform of an LED T8 18W. An EM ballast is purposely placed in series with the lamp. I don't have a power analyzer. What's available is a GDS-2102 oscilloscope. So I connect 1 Ohm resistor in series with the lamp.…

Qelopin Uacel
- 65
- 1
- 7
4
votes
2 answers
What is this component marked 10mΩJ?
Can someone help me to identify this component marked "10mΩJ?" I'm pretty sure it's a 10 mega ohm resistor, but I can't find it anywhere to buy one. Maybe a similar resistor can work, but I don't have more information, like type and how much it…

shadow
- 161
- 5
3
votes
1 answer
How does a reactive ballast work?
I want to use a MOT (microwave oven transformer) for something it's not intended for. As a consequence, I need to limit the current so it doesn't melt itself. I am planning on connecting the ballast to the primary. The load on the secondary should…

Ethan Reesor
- 194
- 1
- 8
3
votes
3 answers
Using a microwave oven transformer as ballast by shorting the secondary
I am self learning electricity and have some basic understanding of RLC circuits.
I came across 2 separate articles (here or here) describing playing around with microwave oven transformers (MOT) which are basically high power step up transformers.…

JavaMan
- 243
- 1
- 3
- 8
2
votes
3 answers
Does current still flow through ballast with fluorescent bulbs removed?
I have a 3 fixtures each with 4 fluorescent tubes with ballast replaced about 8 years ago and these fixtures are connected to the same switch in the kitchen. This am there was an smokey smell and the fire department believes it originated from a bad…

Michael Ward
- 21
- 2
2
votes
1 answer
Can this 1000 W ballast be wired for 240 V and plugged to 120 V to run a 400 W MH Lamp?
I've a 1000 W MH ballast. Is it okay to use the wiring for 240 V on the ballast and use it on 120 V? Does it reduce the ballast to 500 W?
Here's a video for better understanding of how the bulb reacts to the connection.
Comparison between a 400 W &…

The_Vintage_Collector
- 1,514
- 5
- 19
- 34
2
votes
2 answers
Limiting mains current
What would be the best way to limit mains (240V @ 50Hz) current? I want at least 1A of current. The output should be AC 240V at any frequency greater than or equal to 50Hz. It should be able to endure short circuit like conditions. I have tried…

AvZ
- 317
- 1
- 5
- 17
1
vote
1 answer
Easy to use jumper cable to bypass lighting ballast
I am trying to retrofit 22 high bay LEDs in an armature designed for tungsten halide bulbs (400 W). I understand that I need to cut the capacitor and bypass the ballast.
These fittings are in a hard-to-reach spot (rafters of riding arena), and I am…

Floris
- 1,072
- 5
- 11
1
vote
1 answer
Understanding the specs of an electronic ballast (UV-Tubes)
I got lost on the topic of selecting the right electronic ballast for 4 UV-tubes (Cosmolux S pink 15W). I have learned about magnetic ballasts and starters, about electronic ballasts and connecting them in series or parallel (or not).
Currently I am…

Stefan
- 13
- 3
1
vote
1 answer
Switching a fluorescent ECG with normal relays
I want to switch a ballast with a relay. The target lamp is rated at 120 W, but the (electronic) ballast states a 55 A inrush current. Does this mean that as soon as the relay is closed, 55 A will be passing through the relay contact?
What kind of…

DEKKER
- 755
- 1
- 12
- 23
1
vote
0 answers
What is the possible reason that cause the failure (burnt) of PTC in an electronic ballast?
What is the possible reason that might cause the failure (burnt) of PTC in an electronic ballast?
I have been using this VOSSLOH SCHWABE brand electronic ballast and recently it has been burning up after several years of usage. When I investigate…

Chris Aung
- 338
- 2
- 9
1
vote
0 answers
How to power a 17W T5 Germicidal UVC Lamp?
I recently bought a SBL 350T Germicidal Lamp from American Ultraviolet, but have been having some trouble finding out how to power the lamp since I do not have much experience in lighting and the base of the lamp is unique.
After doing some…

Ruben T
- 11
- 1
1
vote
0 answers
Repurposing CFL ballast for different bulb (UVC)
I am attempting to repurpose the (electronic) ballast contained within a CFL lamp to power a UV-C bulb (mercury discharge, uncoated tube) for disinfection purpose, and out of general interest in fluorescent lamps.
I opted for repurposing a ballast…

Blkbox
- 11
- 2
1
vote
1 answer
Is it okay to run a mercury vapor lamp of lower wattage (100/150/175W) on a 400W MHL/MVL ballast? Also can a 60Hz ballast be used on 50Hz?
I have this RAB BMHH400PSQ metal halide pulse start ballast 400W, M135/M155 MULTI TAP 120-277V. Since the MVL are being phased out it has become quite difficult to get a ballast for one of these and the prices are like $30- $40 easily, but still…

The_Vintage_Collector
- 1,514
- 5
- 19
- 34
1
vote
1 answer
Current limiting ballast for a transformer
So, guys, I hope you can explain to me how to calculate the necessary parameters for a ballast to limit the current on the primary side of a high voltage transformer.It is for a tesla coil project. To stop excessive current being drawn through the…

Nano
- 81
- 1
- 10