Can I Safely Convert a Diode Lighting Fixture to Plug into an Outlet?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility and safety of converting a diode lighting fixture to plug into an electrical outlet. Participants explore the requirements for powering fluorescent lamps, including voltage and polarity considerations, while addressing safety concerns related to electrical work.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes attempting to connect a diode lighting fixture to an old phone plug but reports that it did not work.
  • Another participant identifies the fixture as a fluorescent lamp and warns against attempting to light it without a ballast transformer, emphasizing the risks of electrical hazards.
  • A different participant suggests that if the fluorescent light is designed for 12 volts and the plug-pack delivers the same, it might work, but stresses the importance of matching voltage and polarity.
  • Concerns are raised about the dangers of working with mains voltage equipment, with a recommendation to seek help if unsure about the process.
  • A participant expresses a willingness to heed the safety advice given, acknowledging the potential risks of their initial plan.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the safety concerns associated with converting the lighting fixture for use with an outlet, but there are differing views on the technical feasibility of such a conversion depending on the specific voltage requirements.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the need for clarity on voltage specifications and the importance of using appropriate equipment, but lacks detailed information on the specific requirements of the lighting fixture and the plug-pack.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY electrical projects, particularly those involving lighting fixtures, as well as those seeking to understand the safety implications of working with electrical devices.

Zazuba
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So I have this lighting fixture that I'm trying to plug into an outlet. I took the diode and tried connecting it to and old phone plug. This didn't work.

[PLAIN]http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/6803/20100608201408.jpg

I was wondering if plugging this into an outlet is even possible, and if so how to do it.
 
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What you have is a fluorescent lamp if I see that rather large picture correctly.

My advice is: NOOO Stay way from trying to light it. No way will you get it lit without some sort of ballast transformer. And from what you've asked about; diode? telephone plug? , you shouldn't be messing around with power. If you don't know what you're doing you could get yourself killed or start a fire and hurt someone else.

Welcome to PF by the way.
 
Zazuba said:
So I have this lighting fixture that I'm trying to plug into an outlet. I took the diode and tried connecting it to and old phone plug. This didn't work.



I was wondering if plugging this into an outlet is even possible, and if so how to do it.


If the fluorescent light is meant for 12 volts and the plug-pack (wall wart) delivers 12 volts, it might work. It still depends on the polarity of the input and output, whether it is AC or DC and the actual voltages.

You have to match the output of the wall wart to the needs of the light. If it is supposed to run on 110 volts, then the output of the wall-wart will not be enough and the lamp will not light.

Somewhere on the lamp and on the wall wart there should be information to tell you the voltages they work on.

I agree with Digoff, though. If this is mains voltage equipment, you need to stop now and get someone else to help you.

Incidentally, photos need to be a lot smaller than this and carefully focussed. Programs like MS Paint or Irfanview can reduce the size of a picture from a digital camera to 640 by 480 and convert them to JPG or PNG format.
 
Considering I don't know what I'm doing, I'll gladly take your advice(s) and stop.

I just thought since my friend's florescent plugged into a wall, I could make mine do the same. I didn't want to pay an electrician because this is more of a temporary lighting situation. But its most definitely better than setting my house on fire.
 

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