The discussion centers on the audible sound produced by a tube light, which is attributed to a failing ballast. The ballast, responsible for converting AC mains power (120V or 240V) to high voltage for the fluorescent tube, can emit a buzzing noise when it malfunctions. Participants confirmed that replacing the light fixture resolved the issue, indicating the ballast was indeed the source of the sound. The conversation also touched on variations in terminology regarding ballasts across different regions.
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Yes, I changed the light, but the sound continues.berkeman said:
The ballast takes the AC Mains power in (120V or 240V, etc.), and converts it to the high voltage used to turn on the florescent tube. It is basically an inexpensive switching power supply, and when it starts to fail, it can make an audible buzzing noise.Wrichik Basu said:
Understood.berkeman said:
I thought that the term "ballast" was used for the series Inductor that's used to limit the current flowing through the very low resistance of the discharge tube, once it has struck. But I am referring to the ordinary domestic flow tubes which strikes easily with mains volts after the starter circuit has heated the filaments at each end and produced its thermionic electrons.berkeman said:
It could just be a difference in terminology country-by-country. The Wikipedia article follows the US terminology, I think.sophiecentaur said:
