ANSI C78.2

Description / Abstract: This standard sets forth the physical and electrical characteristics of the principal types of fluorescent lamps intended for application on conventional preheat start circuits or for dual circuit applications. Lamp data sheets for lamps with dual circuit applications show both preheat (switch) start(Footnote 1) and rapid-start conditions. Specifications for both the lamp itself and the interactive features of lamp and ballast are given. Self-supporting, single-ended compact lamps are not included.

Lamps designed primarily for operation on other types of circuits such as rapid start and instant start are specified in other lamp standards. See clause 3. Lamp data sheets have generally been placed in the standard that covers the original application for that lamp.

Lamps for conventional systems relying on auxiliary support from external ballasts are described. The lamps are those designed for 60 Hz operation.

Lamp color is not specified herein.

Bactericidal lamps have been included because their sizes and electrical requirements are similar to some preheat fluorescent lamps.

Certain lamp types covered in this standard may be similar to those in IEC Publication 81. However, additional types are included that are used only in North America and are not specified in the IEC standard.

Footnote 1 - The terms "switch start" and "preheat start" have been used interchangeably in various standards. Herein, they are considered to be equivalent as indicated by the term "preheat (switch) start".