What happened?

They refused to get back with me so I just messaged them to give me a refund.

I ended up using the refund money to replace my SHURE SE112 earbuds that got busted at work.

This is how "good packing" should be done, but the stiff styrofoam is not good for cushioning SOX lamps.

The parcel contained 3-35w and 3-26w Philips lamps. The red marked messages were on all the sides of the box.

I'm aware that USPS charges xtra for "Fragile" items. Is ebay aware of this? Is it customary to throw and drop items just because there's no fragile notice?

So I ordered Sox successfully. I've ordered  6 55 watt lamps. I no longer am interested in 18 watt lamps.

Now I just need a ballast.


I am still interested in obtaining 175 watt C lamp!

So I ordered Sox successfully. I've ordered  6 55 watt lamps. I no longer am interested in 18 watt lamps.

Now I just need a ballast.


I am still interested in obtaining 175 watt C lamp!

I’ve found out you can just use an 18W fluro Ballast to start it wire a starter across the lamp

Is that only for 240 volts or can it work on 120v? 18 watt fluorescent isn't all that common around here... Also any idea on how to run the 55 watt lamp?

Is that only for 240 volts or can it work on 120v? 18 watt fluorescent isn't all that common around here... Also any idea on how to run the 55 watt lamp?

Here is a basic rundown on how it works:
Many years ago when Sox was common we used dedicated chokes (I’ll post a pic soon).
18w Sox is 57V and 0.53A. 18W fluro is also 57V and 0.53A, they are electrically identical

The fluro choke will work on both 120V and 240V.

I’m not sure the starter method will work because the low voltage starter or the series ones will make the lamp cycle so I use an FSU for 250V you can use a low voltage igniter for MH lamps.

You can use 18/20W fluro choke.

55W is different and you have to use a dedicated choke because there is no alternative

Well I hope I find a 55 watt ballast for cheap somewhere...