G8.5 Base - Pulse Start Metal Halide

G8.5 based bulbs refers to the type and size of the base. With pin spacing approximately 8.5 millimeters (about 0.33 inches) apart, the G8.5 bases of these pulse start metal halide bulbs are compact yet powerfully efficient light source. T4.5 bulbs, i.e. tubular pulse start bulbs, can be paired with G8.5 bases and are today commonly found in the ceramic metal halide family.

Ceramic metal halide (CMH) lamps, also known as ceramic discharge metal halide (CDM) lamps are MH lamps with one notable difference in their inner arc tubes. CDM lamps use obviously smaller ceramic tubes instead of fused quartz inner arc tubes to decrease the chances of a burnout due to the high pressure and temperature of the light. Pulse start MH lamps, like all metal halide lamps, need a ballast to function. The pulse start method uses a high voltage ignitor rather than a third starting electrode (i.e. the "probe" electrode) to create pulses of electricity to start the lamp. Without a starter electrode, the lifespan of the lamp increases while maintaining the lumen output over time.

Along with 3-5 times greater lumen efficacy than traditional halogen bulbs, these lamps' ability to withstand higher temperatures results in better color rendering and color stability. Pulse start MH lamps have one of the highest CRIs of the HID family, ranging from a standard 80 to an optimal over-90 CRI. The accuracy of the color doesn't fade or change over time for a perfect light until the end of its lifespan.

The condensed size of our G8.5 lamps combined with a convenient range of wattages and lumen outputs, makes them the popular choice for television or film sets, flood lights, or sporting arenas. They are also gaining popularity as indoor grow lights.

For more advice about where pulse start bulbs can improve your lighting, call 1-800-624-4488 and speak with one of our knowledgeable lighting experts!