Bi-pin bulb question

[Pokerstud]

I just ordered a "3Rd Run Golden PR To Bi-Pin Ceramic Socket" from Fivemega. I have never used a Bi-pin bulb, just PR based potted. I thought getting one of these sockets would expand bulb options for me. My question is, do Bi-pin bulbs come pre trimmed to length, or do I do it? If I do it, is there a pre-determined length? Looking at pictures, it seems the pins are trimmed until the bottom of the bulb is barely touching the ceramic. Also, is there a right way and a wrong way to trim the pins? Thx in advance for your experience.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/fivemega/Bipin-2.jpg

 

[leeleefocus]

I have no experience with the five mega bi pin holders but as far as i know you do not have to trim the legs you just push the bulb in and away you go.

 

[Pokerstud]

I have no experience with the five mega bi pin holders but as far as i know you do not have to trim the legs you just push the bulb in and away you go.

Thx for the advice. I will assume that you should not hold the bulb with your bare hand while inserting in the socket. I understand the oils from your hand can sometimes cause issues with the bulb. Maybe use a tissue or something to hold it. This holds true for a PR based bulb as well. Thx again.

 

[cd-card-biz]

Thx for the advice. I will assume that you should not hold the bulb with your bare hand while inserting in the socket. I understand the oils from your hand can sometimes cause issues with the bulb. Maybe use a tissue or something to hold it. This holds true for a PR based bulb as well. Thx again.

If you do need to touch the lamp, just wipe it down with some alcohol before lighting it up again.

 

[Pokerstud]

If you do need to touch the lamp, just wipe it down with some alcohol before lighting it up again.

Great advice, thankyou. :thumbsup:

 

[BVH]

The height the bulb filament is in relation to the reflector will affect focus. If you had a light that could not change the position of its reflector (focusing ability) the height of the bulb in the socket would definitely matter. But since you can focus a mag with or without a cammed reflector, the height of the bulb in the socket doesn't really matter with regard to focus. My thought is the longer the pins, the further the pins are inserted and the better the lamp is held in place. Definitely keep the glass tit at the bottom of the bulb off of the ceramic by a little bit. Be careful trimming the pins. Sometimes if you move the pin to much while cutting, it will break the glass envelope where the pin goes through and then the bulb is toast.