Lasse Karlsson wrote:
My question is: 1) Generally, how does the idea sound to you, who may know a bit more about these types of lights than me?
Sounds OK to me.
2) Do you think those tubes can be replaced with other types of fluorescent tubes of same power? Any reason not to?
Yes. If you check the starters and chokes, you may find that you can put higher power tubes in. There are various "light types" of tubes, too.
3) Would it's power adjustment capabilities work just as well with other types of tubes?
Not sure from your description. Fluorescents generally do not work well at reduced outputs. Maybe better to build something that selectively removes tubes from the circuit, if that is not what is already there.
4) Am I possibly missing something else?
Whatever you do, DO NOT use it with the UV tubes in without proper UV eye protection. Even a short exposure (and reflected off something at that) can cause eye problems, even with old tubes that do not tan well any more. These problems may not show up immediately. The problems may be permanent. Better to be safe.
This looks like an excellent idea to pick up high intensity lighting for a very reasonable price.
mike
