Question - PC Ballast & Flashing Lights?

[MelodyCorals]

When my 2 PC 65w Actinics turn on in the morning, they sometimes (most of the time) start "flashing" on/off quickly. It seems to go away, but the timing is intermittent. Is this a sure sign that the ballast is just bad, or is this an electrical/wiring/grounding problem? I have the lights setup for a while, and just recently started noticing the flashing, so before I go and buy a new ballast - is that really the problem and is there a way to know - recommended troubleshooting steps?

As a side question, which PC Ballasts are recommended, because if I need to replace it already then the one I have has not lasted very long.

Here is what I have now:

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=CU01913

Thanks,
Josh

 

[Nu2SW]

Hmmm well my black light in my kids room does that. How old are the lamps i think it may do with age.

But on the other hand, im not too sure. I know exactly what your talking about and thats when I see it happen.

 

[MelodyCorals]

Just replaced the lamps because I thought the same thing. So I'm definately leaning towards ballast, but was also thinking perhaps something electrical?

 

[CaliforniaDreamer]

I think it is the ballast also. I know magnetic ballasts can cause the lamps to flicker (I don't know if your electronic ballast will do likewise).
I have what I believe is a workhorse that you could have if you want (I am not using it any longer). I will check when I get home. We don’t live that far from each other and I will be going out your way later today.

-- edit --

Woops we do live very far from each other (I live in the Elk Grove area). In any case you can have the ballast if you want it. I work in the Carmichael area and can get it to YourReef for pickup or we can meet or whatever. Just let me know if you want it.

 

[RxBandit]

The issue may also be in what type of electronic ballast it is. There are Instant Start, Rapid Start, and Programmed Rapid Start. Each of them ignites the cathode differently. Instant Start Ballasts do not have the problem of flicker, but they are the hardest on lamp life. Generally though, since we all replace our lamps quite sooner than they are going to go out this is likely not going to be an issue.)

 

[MelodyCorals]

Thanks

Thanks

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7709227#post7709227 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by CaliforniaDreamer
I have what I believe is a workhorse that you could have if you want (I am not using it any longer).

How cool, thanks for the offer, I would like to give it a try. I'll PM you seperately for pick-up and let me know if you want some Kenya Tree or Green Striped mushrooms in trade - both are taking over my tank

Thanks again,
Josh