What can I use for a T5 ho ballast? Anything?

sikpupy · 02/17/2009, 02:58 PM

Will i be okay as long as it throws out 54w for the 4' long tubes? If not, what makes them so special? Why can I not use a, or can I, T12 or such ballast?

Help me understand

sikpupy · 02/18/2009, 11:57 AM

Is there another message board i can go to that would answer this?

PaulErik · 02/18/2009, 03:07 PM

A T5 HO ballast is designed for T5 HO lamps. A T12 ballast is designed for T12 lamps. A T8 ballast is designed for T8 lamps. Each lamp type has different electrical and operating requirements. T5 and other small diameter bulbs also require a ballast that limits lamp current or is equipped with an EOL (End Of Life) circuit just in case a cathode fails on a lamp. If you use a ballast that is not designed or compatible with T5 lamps the operation is considered unsafe. For safety and reliable operation you should always match lamps with the proper ballast.

sikpupy · 02/18/2009, 03:13 PM

I agree, but, with newer and newer designs coming out, the latest T12 ballast, for example, could have everything a T5 ballast has. Remember, I said "could, not "did" or "does". I was just curious if there may be such a critter. No one knows if there is a sub that could be used unless one asks around.

I have heard of EOL and never knew it applied only to T5's, I thought it was a new thing for all? Same thing as a dimmable ballast, never knew there was one out there for flouresent's. Many other variable and things to find out.

Thanks.

PaulErik · 02/18/2009, 03:35 PM

EOL circuits are added to other ballasts not just T5 ballasts. Itâ€™s a safety feature that is more commonly used with T5 and other small diameter bulbs. T5 lamps do require current limiting or an EOL circuit for safe operation. Most manufacturers do not use an EOL circuit on T8 and T12 lamps because of the larger bulb diameter. These lamps do not have the risks smaller bulbs have. An EOL circuit adds cost and more complex wiring (each lamp pin pair is monitored) so it is not added unless it has a good reason for it. It is always best to consult with the ballast manufacturer for compatible lamps. Even if the wattage is the same the current and voltage specifications are usually not between different lamp types. Even lamp ignition and warm up requirements vary with the lamp type.

sikpupy · 02/18/2009, 08:36 PM

Probably why T5 ballasts are so much!?

02/17/2009, 02:58 PM	#1
sikpupy Moved On Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 1,431	What can I use for a T5 ho ballast? Anything? Will i be okay as long as it throws out 54w for the 4' long tubes? If not, what makes them so special? Why can I not use a, or can I, T12 or such ballast? Help me understand

02/18/2009, 11:57 AM	#2
sikpupy Moved On Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 1,431	Is there another message board i can go to that would answer this?

02/18/2009, 03:07 PM	#3
PaulErik Premium Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: North Charleston, SC Posts: 1,703	A T5 HO ballast is designed for T5 HO lamps. A T12 ballast is designed for T12 lamps. A T8 ballast is designed for T8 lamps. Each lamp type has different electrical and operating requirements. T5 and other small diameter bulbs also require a ballast that limits lamp current or is equipped with an EOL (End Of Life) circuit just in case a cathode fails on a lamp. If you use a ballast that is not designed or compatible with T5 lamps the operation is considered unsafe. For safety and reliable operation you should always match lamps with the proper ballast.

02/18/2009, 03:13 PM	#4
sikpupy Moved On Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 1,431	I agree, but, with newer and newer designs coming out, the latest T12 ballast, for example, could have everything a T5 ballast has. Remember, I said "could, not "did" or "does". I was just curious if there may be such a critter. No one knows if there is a sub that could be used unless one asks around. I have heard of EOL and never knew it applied only to T5's, I thought it was a new thing for all? Same thing as a dimmable ballast, never knew there was one out there for flouresent's. Many other variable and things to find out. Thanks.

02/18/2009, 03:35 PM	#5
PaulErik Premium Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: North Charleston, SC Posts: 1,703	EOL circuits are added to other ballasts not just T5 ballasts. Itâ€™s a safety feature that is more commonly used with T5 and other small diameter bulbs. T5 lamps do require current limiting or an EOL circuit for safe operation. Most manufacturers do not use an EOL circuit on T8 and T12 lamps because of the larger bulb diameter. These lamps do not have the risks smaller bulbs have. An EOL circuit adds cost and more complex wiring (each lamp pin pair is monitored) so it is not added unless it has a good reason for it. It is always best to consult with the ballast manufacturer for compatible lamps. Even if the wattage is the same the current and voltage specifications are usually not between different lamp types. Even lamp ignition and warm up requirements vary with the lamp type.

02/18/2009, 08:36 PM	#6
sikpupy Moved On Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 1,431	Probably why T5 ballasts are so much!?