I removed this tube from a UV insect trap. It's quite interesting in that it is self ballasted by a resistive coating on the outside of the lamp that limits the current and also capacitively couples to the inside of the tube to help ionise the gas at startup.

12 thoughts on “Self ballasted uv tube.”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ipsum the Purple Wuss - Loud Nation says:

    What does it look like when power is applied? ⚡

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars king james488 says:

    omg this isn't bigclive, it's big-c-live!
    hax!!!

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alex Marshall says:

    Video and audio fine for a on the hoof needs must information blipvu..really enjoyed the subject..the convoluted machinations that manufacturers employ is the fuel that makes your vids and bait to keep me hooked

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Reg Pollock says:

    I worked t for a lighting company for a while.  They once installed UV lighting under baseboards.  The UV light was so strong it would kill flees that crawled underneath.  We were told not to leave any light exposed.  Evian light from peripheral vision would blind us.

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Roller Coaster Maniac says:

    Video looks way better, sound is absolutely horrid

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ikonix360 says:

    Now if the unit that bulb is used in has any scent or attractant could the heat from the bulb be used to heat that up?

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tiger12506 says:

    Sorry if someone has already asked this — did you ever get around to striking this tube? I wouldn't mind seeing a followup.

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Tradition says:

    Sound is poor and harsh. Video bitrate and clarity is better, but the exposure is constantly and distractingly snapping and hunting. And hands and objects kick the auto focus, which is distracting too.
    Shame as the raw video being captured looks clear, if a little post processed.

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars z08840 says:

    probably this heating made on purpose – mosquitoes are attracted by body heat of warm-blooded animals

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars rchandraonline says:

    Everything seemed fine. It just sounds different, probably due to room acoustics different than your shop.

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars PapaBless says:

    Anyone else think Clive was going to draw a willy when he started?

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rouverius says:

    Here's an interesting twist…. mosquitoes are attracted to heat; not necessary UV. So, I wonder if the radiant heat is by design. If so, this would really make this an even more clever bit of engineering.

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