Any ColdCathode tubes with rheostat-controlled intensity?

[syf3r]

I know this isn't exactly a "cases and cooling" question, but it seems like the most appropriate forum to post this question... I want to mount a blue cold-cathode tube under my computer (it sits on caster wheels) and be able to control the intensity (from OFF to 100%) via a rheostat dial mounted somewhere on the front face of the case... Any of you know any places that sell light tubes that are rheostat-controlled, or would it be easier just to buy a rheostat and wire it up myself?

/syf3r

 

[Mday]

Originally posted by: syf3r
I know this isn't exactly a "cases and cooling" question, but it seems like the most appropriate forum to post this question... I want to mount a blue cold-cathode tube under my computer (it sits on caster wheels) and be able to control the intensity (from OFF to 100%) via a rheostat dial mounted somewhere on the front face of the case... Any of you know any places that sell light tubes that are rheostat-controlled, or would it be easier just to buy a rheostat and wire it up myself?

/syf3r

you cant and shouldnt. the CC tubes use AC, and there is an inverter which converts the DC into AC (a few thousand Hz, voltage varies). if you send too low a voltage to the inverter, the inverter may start drawing more current. you may wind up having an electrical fire inside your computer as a result. if you want to dim the CC, you should alter the AC end of the inverter.

 

[Mday]

stupid serve ris having problems today.

 

[syf3r]

hmm.. okay... are there any other types of light tubes besides CC that would be easier to incorporate varying voltage with, to increase or decrease intensity?

/syf3r

 

[Peter D]

Nexus NXP-301 Fan & Light Controller

or

Nexus NXP-305 Fan & Light Controller

That what you're lookin for? They come with blue cathodes as well..

 

[BZeto]

Originally posted by: syf3r
hmm.. okay... are there any other types of light tubes besides CC that would be easier to incorporate varying voltage with, to increase or decrease intensity?

/syf3r

Yeah, car neons.. Cut off the cig lighter plug and wire it to a molex.