FCB74L/WW Bausch & Lomb 31-31-31 Fluorescent Ring Microscope Light Bulb

Light Bulb Technical Specifications:

Watts: 6 Watt
Volts: 100 Volts
Bulb Shape: T4 Ring Light
Base: G10Q
Color Temperature: Warm White (2700K)
Overall Length: 94.5mm
Life: 2000 Hours

***NOTES FOR CHANGING A MICROSCOPE LIGHT BULB***

Being in the Microscope Business for over 25 years Specialty Optical has seen all kinds of specialty bulbs that need replacement in optical systems. From multi-million dollar photolithography machines to simple student microscopes there are some basic guidelines that can be followed to ensure safety and extend the bulbs life.

PURCHASING A MICROSCOPE LIGHT BULB:

If you have trouble finding your bulb, try searching the web with the model number of the scope or any other information you know about the light bulb. There are many light bulb distributors globally but it is a good idea to buy a microscope bulb either from the scope manufacturer, a microscope dealer, or a “specialty” bulb distributor. These bulbs (sometimes referred to as “lamps”) are not household bulbs and if not sourced correctly can result in lost time and lost money. We have seen such things as filament spacing, arc positioning, base seating, and poor ceramic potting as issues. Another issue we hear is pricing discrepancies. Once again, buy from a reputable source - when there is an issue with the performance of the microscope or light bulb the retailer or web site will not know how to correct the problem.

MICROSCOPE LIGHT BULB REMOVAL:

Locate the microscope manual. It is always a good idea to follow the steps within the manual. Some microscope manuals have detailed graphics that show where the light bulb is located and how to replace it.

Make sure the microscope has been off for at least 30 minutes. Some of these light bulbs burn extremely hot and can cause severe burns.

When removing the light bulb, be very careful when taking it out of the socket. Some sockets are made out of ceramic that can be fragile. You may require a screwdriver to remove the illuminator in order to get to the light bulb.

Compare the removed light bulb with the new bulb. There are so many different types of bulbs and manufacturers of bulbs that even the slightest change may affect the optics of the microscope. It is also a good idea to keep the light bulb for future reference.

MICROSCOPE LIGHT BULB INSTALLATION:

Never touch the glass of the light bulb especially if you are replacing a mercury short arc, xenon, or halogen bulb. The oil from your skin increases the surface temperature of the bulb causing the light bulb to a have shorter life. Use a cloth or request an optical cloth for bulb replacement. We can send you one if requested free of charge when buying a bulb from us.

Reverse the procedures when you removed the burnt out light bulb and reattached the illuminator. Some higher end microscopes require filament alignment. There should be adjustment screws that change the “X” and “Y” axis for proper performance.

MICROSCOPE LIGHT BULB DISPOSAL:

Most bulbs can simply be thrown away but some microscope bulbs require proper disposal. If you are replacing a mercury, xenon, or fluorescent bulb, contact the distributor to ensure proper disposal methods.

©Copyright 2008 Specialty Optical Systems, Inc.