Tweakers' Asylum

Posted by MMasztal (A) on June 30, 2009 at 16:41:20

In Reply to: RE: Improvement from using an RFI/EMI filter posted by Al Sekela on June 30, 2009 at 16:04:08

What has been your experience with quantifying noise introduced into the mains by compact fluorescent lights (CFL)?

A friend brought a Graham-Stetzer meter which supposedly measures microtransients in the electrical system. We measured an outlet using a lamp with a CFL bulb and got a reading of 124. Switching the bulb to an incandescent got a reading of 36.

Any thoughts?

Cogito Ergo Credo

• I haven't gone there. - Al Sekela 16:01:56 07/01/09 (0)
  In Reply to: RE: Question for Al... posted by MMasztal on June 30, 2009 at 16:41:20

  Any fluorescent lamp needs a ballast to function with AC line power. The newer ballasts are electronic and I would expect them to make RF noise at some level. The electric arc inside the tube is also a noise source. However, I've not noticed noise on AM radios near lamps with compact fluorescent bulbs installed.
  
  Your question inspired me to hold a portable AM radio right next to a CFL. I could hear a slight hiss with the lamp on that went away when I switched it off. Other non-audio appliances seem to be worse. The fluorescent display on my Wadia 861 makes about as much noise.
  

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