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12v desk lamps:


I found the 12v camper lights work well at home but aren't convenient for field-day or other events, so I picked
up some cheap (Walmart brand) desk lamps and found some 12 volt bulbs for them. These bulbs are 40-watt light
equivalent, and come in a variety of "color temperatures". I picked up a set of "cool white" (aka "daytime")
and a set of "warm white" as well. (they can be easier on the eyes, it's a personal preference) To my surprise,
these bulbs don't care about polarity - center positive or negative is fine. They draw 450mA, which is a bit
more than I'd like to see, but isn't terrible. About the same as the camper lights at full power. They're
probably more than "40 watt equivalent" judging by how bright they are.

I replaced the 120VAC plug with a PP45 power-pole. The lamps come with a generous length of power cord, plus
have an on/off switch at the base, which is weighted for stability, a shade, and have an ajustable neck too.
All of this makes them ideal for desk and small area lighting.

Bulbs were around $20 for a pack of 6, and the lamps were only $12 each. (Amazon or Walmart)

I've found that the 40w equivalent bulbs might be too bright for evening work, plus 450mA seems to be a bit
more than I'd like to "spend" on lighting. I found some 25w equivalent bulbs that draw around half the power
and still provide good lighting, especially in areas otherwise blacked out. The "warm white" bulbs have a lot
more of a "yellow" look to them at the lower wattages, and the bulbs themselves are a little smaller.

And because these lights are single-brightness, they're completely noise-free.


12V 25w equiv daylight bulbs (6ct for $19 at Amazon)

12V 25w equiv warm white bulbs (6ct for $19 at Amazon)

12v 40w equiv daylight bulbs (6ct for $22 at Amazon)

12v 40w equiv warm white bulbs (6ct for $20 at Amazon)


12v 40w equiv LED bulbs:


desk lamp:

$12 at Amazon


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last updated 08/13/2023 at 09:07:03