This standard sets forth the physical and electrical characteristics of the principal types of fluorescent lamps intended for application on conventional line frequency circuits, and electronic high frequency circuits. Some data sheets may specify more than one circuit application. Specifications for both the lamp itself and the interactive features of the lamp and ballast are given. Only double-based lamps of the regular linear shape are included. Single-based lamps including compact, circular, square shaped and Ushaped are found in ANSI C78.901.

Lamps for conventional systems relying on auxiliary support from external ballasts are described. These lamps are those designed for 60-Hz and/or high frequency operation.

Lamp color is not specified herein.

Certain lamp types covered in this standard may be similar to those in IEC 60081. However, additional types are included that are used only in North America and are not specified in the IEC standard.

Important patent disclaimer

The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of this American National Standard. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All standards are subject to revision, and parties to agreements based on this American National Standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the standards indicated below.