Re: ? on small battery operated fluorescents


"Dave" <db5151@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:0eOdnZWk7oEImAPUnZ2dnUVZ_sDinZ2d@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Once purchased a small flashlight with a fluorescent (6") built into the
side, and a switch that let you decide which one to turn on. Ran on 4 AA
batteries, for several hours. Wife fell in love with it, but I fear it
will not last forever (it has already lasted 20 years of intermittent
use). Wondering if I could build her something similar, since I can't find
anything like that at the sporting goods store any longer. I have a
background in electronics and a workshop with a junkbox that won't quit.
And patience. Unfortunately, Google doesn't seem to have what I am
looking for readily accessible. Everything I see there seems to deal with
household AC. I am guessing that a device such as I describe would make
use of a switching power supply, but I have no idea what voltage would
ultimately be used for an F4T5CW bulb. Or what frequency of alternating
current (or whether alternating current would even be used.) Any ideas on
where I could find info, and possibly schematics? This one would be
eternally gratefull.

Many thanks,

Dave



Found this, which looks interesting from the tinkerer's perspective.

http://www.zetex.com/3.0/appnotes/apps/an1.pdf

Thinking about tackling it just for fun. What think y'all? My only real
concern is the transformer, and what to wind it on/whether it matters if I
use 32 AWG enamal-coated wire instead of 34/36 gauge wire for windings #1
and 5, and 28 guage for windings #2/3/4. Ideas?

Thanks all...

Dave


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