Does anyone know where to get those filament testers you use on flourescent light fixtures? I can't find them on the web, I'm just about to make my own. I understand all you need is a #13 flashlight bulb for the bi pins and the same with a 4-ohm resistor for the recessed base. Or maybe I'm better off with the voltmeter, but the little tester seems like it would test the lamp contact area better.
Thanks, Brian

Found them at one of the contractor shows years ago. The Lamp manufactures had them in a basket. I belive they stopped making them for safety reasons. Best to check with mfg.

I test them with my continuity tester. Works every time. If you have continuity, you have a good filament, no continutity, no filament.

I'm not sure but it seemed to me he was talking about some device you plug into the fixture's lampholders?

Maybe you could make one using a base from an old bulb and a little plastic instrument case?

[This message has been edited by SvenNYC (edited 08-21-2003).]

I use this tester for all gas filled lamps:
SLIM-LINE NEON TUBE TESTER

BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ, March 19,1999 -- A new slim-line, portable, high frequency tester for neon and fluorescent tubing has been introduced by EGL. When the extendable antenna is touched to the electrode wires or tubing wall, the unit will cause viable tubing to illuminate in a pulsating manner.
The hand-held tester features an impact-resistant ABS case with molded grip and measures 1.875" long x 1.5" wide x .75" deep, fitting easily into pockets and utility belts.
It operates on four "AA" 1.5-volt batteries and lists for $85.00, reportedly offering greater convenience and economy than larger, heavier testers.
EGL also manufactures the world's largest selection of neon tubing colors, Premium Plus neon electrodes, Maxi-Vac MXV50 pumping systems, rare gases, gas transfer systems, bending equipment, neon accessories and 10-foot high-output fluorescent lamps.
For a free 28-page catalog detailing the Slim-Line tube tester and more than 800 other products for electric sign shops, contact The EGL Company, Inc., 100 Industrial Road, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922, Tel: 908-508-1111, Fax 908-508-1122

Yes the device I am talking about plugs onto the flourescent fixtures lampholder and tests the filament preheat function of the ballast while also checking pin contact. Its just a fast handy device if you do a lot of flourescents. I normally use my VOM to read the voltage but I wanted to try one of these partly to see how they work but mostly because I am a tool freak.

Thanks Voltron I will send away for that catalog.
Brian