View Full Version : Using a starter for rapid-start T12
wooden_reefer
02/22/2010, 01:20 PM
I believe a distance of about 1/2 inch from the lamp to grounding is needed if you use a rapid-start ballast. Either a metal hood or a meatal strip is needed.
Can I get away with the grounding requirement of 1/2 inch if I use a starter on a RS lamp with a RS ballast?
This is so that I can use a plastic hood.
This is for FO tanks.
captsluggo
02/22/2010, 07:10 PM
I haven't tried a starter on a RS ballast , but my thoughts are that it may not make a difference. I have made many a temporary fixture w/o a grounded reflector and some ballast/ bulb combinations have had starting problems. If this is the case, try a ground wire in close proximity to the bulbs or better yet use T8 bulbs/ ballast. You still should have the ballast case grounded and by all means connect to GFCI.
Captsluggo
wooden_reefer
02/23/2010, 01:39 PM
MAy be you really do not need a metal hood. may be just a grounding point near one point on the lamp.
Just drill and tap on the plastic hood for one or two metal bolts near to the lamp?
wooden_reefer
02/26/2010, 01:28 PM
The need for grounding a metal shield and placing the lamp within 0.5 inch is due to capacitance consideration to ionize the gas.
Also is a way to start with less voltage, so less cost in making the ballast.
I just found out.
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