What are the Components of Fluorescent Light Fixtures?
The elements that all fluorescent light fixtures use are: • Tubes: Tubes are either long, straight tubes or tubes formed into other shapes to fit specific applications. Circline bulbs are circular, for example. • Sockets: Sockets are available in many shapes and sizes. Sockets have two purposes; fluorescent sockets secure the tube in place as well as transmitting power to it. • Ballasts: Fluorescent ballasts are crucial to operation. As soon as your light switch is flipped on, your ballast supplies the electrical current that illuminates your tube, and next it lowers the voltage down to the least voltage that’s needed to keep your light properly lit. The voltage drop at this point is the primary reason that fluorescents are known to be so power-stingy. It only takes a trickle to keep going. Note: Some fixtures also have trigger switches or starters. Fluorescent Temperature and Color Particular applications require different fluorescent temperatures and colors. This temperature which is
