[aprssig] CFL Bulbs and Shack backup power ;-)

[Rick Green]

I've been using CFLs for probably twenty years now, I started back when 
the local utility was actually giving away incandescents, and I had to pay 
close to $20 for the CFLs.  By the time those first ones failed, the 
market had moved to the integrated spiral style, and the replacement 'U' 
style bulbs for my expensive ballasts were no longer available.  I'm not 
complaining, because they paid for themselves many times over.

   The cost savings disappears fairly quickly, however, if you implement 
them in inappropriate situations.  The life of the bulb is limited more by 
number of on-off cycles than hours burned, so you don't get the return on 
investment if you use them in closets with automatic door-operated 
switches. Be also wary of infrared motion sensors. With the early 
first-generation bulbs, the rule of thumb was a three hour typical burn. 
Any less, and it'll fail before its 'paid for'.  That number has probably 
shifted with better technology and lower investment cost, so YMMV.

Rick Green, N8BJX

-- 
"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little
temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
                                   -Benjamin Franklin

"As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our
safety and our ideals."
                                -President Barack Obama 20 Jan 2009