What is CCFL?

CCFL stand for “Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp”.
CCFL is commonly found in PC monitors and the backlight of LCD televisions.
The common fluorescent lamp technology used in lighting today is CFL or HCFL (Hot Cathode Fluorescent Lamp).

How do CCFLs radiate light?

The principle of radiation of CCFL is similar to HCFL.
But the method for discharging electricity is different.
HCFL discharges an electron from an electrode by the application of heat, using a filament.
CCFL discharges an electron from an electrode without the application of heat.

When power is turned on and off, the life of an HCFL lamp decreases, because the emitter – the filament - is consumed.
CCFL is different. The electrode does not deteriorate when the power is turned on and off; that is what gives CCFL its very long life, compared to traditional HCFL fluorescent lamps.

What advantages does CCFL have?

- CCFL technology has a lifetime of more than 40,000 hours (6 times the life of a standard fluorescent bulb) and can be even longer than LED.
- CCFL reduces electricity costs by 40% - 65% when compared with with the common fluorescent lamps.
- Not only is the power cost lower, but because product life is so long, there are maintenance and replacement savings, especially in large facilities.
- CCFL generates even less heat than Fluorescents or LEDs. Air conditioning costs are reduced, and environments sensitive to combustion are much safer.
- CCFL’s efficiency makes it a carbon-friendly alternative.
- CCFL functions well even at low temperatures – it can be used at -20 degrees.
- CCFL can be turned on and off many times without reducing its life expectancy, making it especially ideal for facilities with automated or sensored lighting..
- Because CCFL discharges few ultraviolet rays, it is not as prone to attracting insects.

What is CCFL made of?

CCFL is made from tempered glass.

CCFL contains much less mercury, a toxic pollutant, than fluorescent lamps. HCFLs contain about 15mmg, while CCFLs contain less than 3 mmg.
CCFL is RoHS compliant, while traditional fluorescent has a very high disposal/recycling cost.

What is the quality of CCFL light?

Unlike traditional fluorescent lighting, CCFL does not flicker. It turns on instantly, even in cold environments, and emits a range of light that is eye-friendly. It doesn’t cause headaches, eyestrain, and depression often reported by traditional fluorescent users.

UV and IR Radiation

Because CCFL doesn’t emit ultraviolet rays and infrared rays like traditional lighting, it doesn’t affect clothing and paper color or produce fading like other technologies.

Are CCFL lamps dimmable?

When CCFL tubes (T8) are combined with electronic ballasts that have a dim function, three dimming levels are available.
CFL Bulbs are supported with traditional dimmers (triac light dimmer). CCFL Lamps do support with electrical dimmers.

Can CCFL tube lights be used with existing electronic ballasts?

There are differences in circuit design and input/output voltage, so CCFL tubes do require a specialized electronic ballast. These are available for a very reasonable cost.