swing arm lamp switch


  #1  
Old 09-23-20, 10:53 AM
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swing arm lamp switch

Looking for the proper name for a replacement switch for swing arm fluorescent magnifying lamp. Profile or shape is not important.
<img src="https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.doityourselft.com-vbulletin/2000x1124/img_20200923_133632176_3170d282d64266279eb974a5bc3482e6e5064b0e.jpg" width="1999" height="1124"/>
Typical 22w T9 circular T9 fluorescent bulb

<img src="https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.doityourselft.com-vbulletin/2000x1124/img_20200923_133639839_b0f321a9fc4d0c04bafc76e9e9831d14fec99e1d.jpg" width="1999" height="1124"/>
Original switch

Any reason I can't convert this to a LED lamp instead? Where is the ballast located if it has any?

Is it possible to use this switch?
http://vi.raptor.ebaydesc.com/ws/eBa...21380000&ver=0
 
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Old 09-23-20, 01:17 PM
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That is what is called a manual preheat setup you push and hold until the ends glow and then release it and the lamp will fully light. The actual ballast is probably in the base where the lamp sits (clamp or stand or floor stand).
I would no replace it with LED as my stance is I hate LED but it is your fixture and you can do LED if you want but they never will last as long as they claim they do.

I will look a little later and post the link where you can get a new switch I know Leviton makes one but I don't remember off hand the part number.

EGaynor also makes one but not a round one like that. What is wrong with the original switch?
 
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Old 09-23-20, 01:32 PM
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What is wrong with the original switch?
Broke. That pic is of another lamp. Years ago I replaced one, but I don't remember the specs or the name. As far as mounting goes it doesn't need to be round or the same dia. I can make an adapter without a problem.
Notice the 4 wire hook up. How does the wiring go. I can take apart the the other one to look at it but I thought maybe someone be able to show me. I like the toggle type you referenced but again how would I wire it.
 
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Old 09-23-20, 02:47 PM
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I found This on eBay that is the cheapest I have seen them they are not made anymore to my knowledge so they are NOS I think. I asked another forum about the wiring of the switch I posted in this message.

The other one has this diagram on the product page it is made for two lamp units probably those 2x F15T8/T12 ones but I think it would work for one lamp but I am not 100% sure about that.
 
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Old 09-23-20, 03:22 PM
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Gee for that price it's not worth the effort. I don't really need the light. It's just that the only thing it needs is a switch. Plus the fact that they may not be made anymore was why I asked about converting to a LED.
I also have two swing arm lamps that use a screw in type bulb that I don't need either. I hate to throw them out but that may be the best thing I can do.
 
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Old 09-23-20, 04:11 PM
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If you decide to toss it I will take the lamp head (where the bulb and switch is) is it a metal one? I will pay shipping if you want. Another idea is two switch one would be a momentary switch SPST switch (for starting) and a regular latching SPST for on/off I would also have to ask the other forum I asked about the Leviton one about the wiring if you want to go that route
 
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Old 09-23-20, 05:00 PM
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Let me think about it. Don't answer me but I'm curious as to why you might want them. You can probably pick them up at a Goodwill store. Shipping would a lot I suspect.
 
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Old 09-23-20, 06:44 PM
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I only want one I have one of these but mine has a plastic head that is yellowed from years of use. I don't want the whole lamp just the head where the switch and circline lamp is. Anyway I found This video that explains how a fluorescent starter switch is wired
 
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Old 09-24-20, 03:28 AM
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Well the one I have is also old and very yellowed with age. But it is metal. I suppose it can be cleaned up or painted. Let me take a look at see if it can be easily taken apart.
 
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Old 09-25-20, 08:36 AM
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They do come apart easily the two nuts and the one hand tight-up nut come undone and the wire can be cut there. I really like old lighting and fluorescent lighting stuff LED is 100% junk in my completely honest opinion they never last what they claim they are supposed to and the drivers (fancy name for power supply) are junk as that is usually the first part to fail.
 
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Old 09-25-20, 11:26 AM
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Sent you a PM.
I called a local electrical supply house and the guy kind of laughed. He said I'd be lucky to find a replacement for that switch in any configuration. These lights are out of style. I recently bought a fluorescent swing lamp for my current desk. But it's an instant start. No ballast. It's the Harbor Freight on for 40.00.
You're the exception.
I like as do most people the LED lighting. And what's nice is that you can change color. I just bought a floor/desk lamp LED on line. Three different light colors and 5 different levels of light. It's fantastic. This unit...https://www.woot.com/offers/miroco-l...loor-desk-lamp. I love it. As far as longevity I think they will last longer than any fluorescent.
 
 

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