G13 LED T8 end cap selection, installation and use precautions

When installing G13 LED T8 end caps, how should you choose and what are the precautions?

First, the status of the lamp must be clear:

Is the lamp modified? If the ballast and starter have been removed from the lamp, and the AC power L/N is directly connected to the pins at both ends of the lamp holder (usually the upper and lower pins on the same side are connected to L and N respectively, and the other side is short-circuited), then "ballastless", "direct drive" or "Bypass" type LED tubes are preferred (usually the end caps at both ends are symmetrical and unmarked). This solution is the safest, most efficient, and has the longest lamp life.

Is the lamp not modified? If you do not want or cannot modify the lamp (the ballast is still there), you must choose a double-ended LED T8 lamp that is "compatible with ballast" and "can be installed in traditional lamps", and strictly pay attention to the direction mark on the end cap (the shunt end is connected to the ballast side!). This is the prerequisite for safe operation.

Secondly, identify the direction of the end cap:

When purchasing and before installation, be sure to find the mark (sticker, engraving, color, special structure) on the lamp end cap that identifies the shunt end (ballast end/Bypass end).

When installing: Insert the end marked with the shunt end/Bypass end into the lamp holder on the side of the lamp that was originally connected to the ballast output line. Incorrect installation is the most common cause of lamp failure, flickering, burning, and even lamp damage!

Pay attention to quality and safety:

Choose products from well-known brands or with reliable certifications (such as CE, UL/cUL, TUV, CCC, etc.). The insulation performance and internal connections (especially the quality and welding of the shunt/resistor) of inferior end caps may not meet the standards, posing a risk of fire or electric shock.

Pay attention to whether the end cap has cracks, deformation, burn marks, and whether the pins are loose or skewed.

Does the end cap need to be replaced?

Reason:

The lamp needs to be disassembled (destructive operation, which may damage the lamp).

It is necessary to precisely weld the internal wires to the new end cap contacts, which requires high operation.

The new end cap must be exactly the same as the original end cap (with or without shunt? Shunt specifications? Internal connection method?). It is almost impossible for ordinary users to obtain matching, quality replacement end caps.

The operation involves high voltage, and there is a risk of electric shock.

Strongly recommended: If the end cap is damaged, directly replace the entire LED tube. Safety and reliability are more guaranteed.

The G13 end cap for LED T8 round tubes (double-ended power supply type) is far more than a physical connector. It is:

A bridge of physical compatibility: It allows LED tubes to be inserted into traditional fluorescent lamp holders.

High-voltage access point and insulation barrier: Direct connection to the mains, safety is critical.

The core of compatible ballasts (for specific types): The internal shunt/resistor is the key to achieving "end cap and play", and the installation direction must be correct.

The focus of quality and safety: Inferior end caps are a major hidden danger.

Therefore, understanding its working principle, strictly following the marked installation direction (for compatible ballast type), and choosing reliable quality products are the key to safe and successful use of LED T8 G13 lamps. If possible, it is the best solution to modify the lamp to remove the ballast and use a direct drive lamp.

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