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From: amichiel@rodan.acs.syr.edu (Allen J Michielsen)
Newsgroups: sci.electronics
Subject: Re: incandescent light bulb life extender
Message-ID: <1990Dec7.142843.1870@rodan.acs.syr.edu>
Date: 7 Dec 90 14:28:43 GMT
References: <5232@rsiatl.Dixie.Com> <4225@kitty.UUCP>
Sender: amichiel@sunrise.acs.syr.edu
Organization: Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY
Lines: 50

In article <4225@kitty.UUCP> larry@kitty.UUCP (Larry Lippman) writes:
>In article <5232@rsiatl.Dixie.Com>, jgd@Dixie.Com (John G. DeArmond) writes:

   ... in a truly esoteric arguement of lumens and baked beans... 8-)
>> Here is how to extend your bulb life indefinitely with practically (<1%)
>> decrease in output.  Place a negative tempco thermistor of the proper
>> value in the lamp lead.  The thermistor limits inrush and self-heats to
>> a low resistance value in about a second.

>	While the above installation technique may function as intended,

  If you can't clearly see that the above 'application' isn't a functional
solution then you shouldn't make ANY coment on it.  I haven't reviewed the
power ratings discussed, but believe (agree) that this type of application
is outside the normal design parameters & specs, but probably within physical
normally distributed (fire/explosioin) limits of the device(s).  
   The key word there may well be probably, I have found a BIG difference in
bulb life just by selecting 'major' manufacturers ir bulbs, AND not buying 
them in cheap/discount store packaging.  Meaning major MFG bulbs in cheap 
looking packages in cheap discount houses aren't (always/sometimes/often)
then same quality (and life) bulbs as those you usually can get at hardware
store, expensive outlets, AND which have older type, more conservative
packaging.  


>	UL does approve the various button-type devices which insert within
>the lamp socket for lamp life extension, with such devices utilizing diodes
>or thermistors.
>	I would strongly urge readers to utilize such button-type devices
>instead of the above wiring suggestion.  Why risk a fire?

    The funny part here is that while ul listed, these button type jobs are
a common cause of fires, and very popular (winning) lawsuit item.  I have
a friend that testifies and consults, and has made a ton of money off these
little jobs blowing up.  The UL rating was either a result of poor government
inoperation or just a simple bribe.  Can anyone list a part number for one of
these that was made by & sold under the GE, Westinghouse, Sylvania name in
any part of north america.
al







-- 
Al. Michielsen, Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University
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