fun with a broken CFL

Oct 07, 2008 2 Replies
M

I read this on the web:

formatting link



and thought, why not, I've got a dremel and a dead 25W CFL, let's look for neat electronics inside.



I also saw something about running the CFL mercury bulb at reduced wattage, at 5V:

formatting link



so now I'm wondering, how can you run a CFL bulb on DC?



Sure, I understand that a CCFL inverter might do the trick, but that kind of defeats the purpose of using cheap parts to run a broken bulb that could be bought for new, for under $2 when on sale....



Would a 555 switching 12VDC at several kHz excite a CFL? Or a boost converter, or... ???



Thanks,



Michael


Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
P

I read this on the web:

** You use an inverter circuit **designed** for 12 volt DC - fool.

Eg:

formatting link

Use Google to find schematics for higher wattages.

..... Phil

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
M

Transformer with five windings, huh? Wow...

M
Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required