Help with mini fluorescent lights

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The discussion centers on building a compact lighting system using small fluorescent tubes purchased from an electronics surplus store. The user seeks assistance in identifying the tubes, determining the appropriate DC voltage and amperage, understanding the wiring configuration, and identifying the necessary ballast. There is uncertainty about the tubes' specifications, with suggestions that they may be cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFL) commonly found in laptops. Participants emphasize the importance of measuring resistance across the wires before attempting to connect them to avoid damage. The user remains optimistic about experimenting with the inexpensive components despite the lack of information.
DaveC426913
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I'm trying to build a lighting system that's very small and have been experimenting with designs.

I bought these things at the local Electronics Surplus, and I think, if I can get them to work, they'll do exactly what I need. Unfortunately, they couldn't provide any information about them at the store.

So.

Does anyone
1] recognize these little fluorescent tubes?
2] know what DC voltage/amperage would probably light them?
3] know how to hook the 4 wires up?
4] know what ballast might be needed?

(see attached)

Thanks!
 
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No help from me, I'm afraid. I've seen very small bulbs before, but they always had the traditional 2-pins-per-end contacts. While I assume that those wires are the equivalent, I wouldn't try hooking them up that way without solid data.
 
Do the two wires on one end show a low resistance between them?

Does the other end also show low resistance?
Or does it show open?
 
Danger said:
No help from me, I'm afraid. I've seen very small bulbs before, but they always had the traditional 2-pins-per-end contacts. While I assume that those wires are the equivalent, I wouldn't try hooking them up that way without solid data.
Well, they only cost $1.50 so I'm good to 'speriment with them. That's why I got them. But if I try it without ANY prior edumacated knowledge, I'll just blow em up.
 
NoTime said:
Do the two wires on one end show a low resistance between them?

Does the other end also show low resistance?
Or does it show open?
I um, guess I could find out. This meter I've got might tell me something.
 
Might be cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFL) often used in laptops.
 
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