Help with mini fluorescent lights

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around building a small lighting system using mini fluorescent lights. Participants are exploring the identification, electrical requirements, and wiring of these lights, as well as potential ballasts needed for operation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant is seeking help to identify the fluorescent tubes and their electrical specifications, including DC voltage and amperage.
  • Another participant expresses uncertainty about the wiring, noting that they have only seen traditional bulbs with standard pin configurations.
  • Some participants suggest checking for low resistance between the wires at both ends to gather more information about the tubes.
  • There is a mention that the tubes might be cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFL), commonly used in laptops, but this is not confirmed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the identification or specifications of the fluorescent tubes. Multiple viewpoints and uncertainties remain regarding the wiring and electrical requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants express limitations in their knowledge about the specific tubes and their configurations, indicating a dependence on further testing and data to proceed safely.

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!
 
Last edited:
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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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