An Experimental Methodology for Determining the System Performance of Fluorescent Lamp, Ballast, Fixture Combinations Operating Under Realistic Application Conditions

Designers who wish to compare and select lighting systems and to design lighting layouts that meet both illuminance and energy code requirements require accurate data documenting the combined performance capabilities of fluorescent lamp, ballast, and fixture systems operating under realistic application conditions. These application conditions may differ significantly from the standard ANSI conditions under which routine photometric tests are performed, introducing temperature-dependent errors into the lighting design calculation procedure.

To meet the need for accurate performance data, we plan to develop and demonstrate an experimental method for determining the performance of lamp, ballast, and luminaire combinations operating under a broad range of realistic conditions.