High frequency fluorescent lamps very sensitive to switch bounce - any cure?

[tinnews]

I have a couple of 5ft HF fluorescent lamps which frequently fail to start when I switch them on. At first I thought I had a faulty switch which wasn't turning on but after a while I decided that it was switch bounce causing the problem.

If I push the switches carefully, or at least in a way that I guess will stop them bouncing, the lights come on OK. However I'm not a perfect switch de-bouncer and neither are other users. Once not started the lights don't re-try, they simply stay off until I switch off for a few seconds and then re-try.

A change of switch has improved things a little but it's still far from perfect.

Can anyone advise a way around this problem, probably the best answer is a non-bouncing switch as I don't particularly want to replace the lights.

[Bob Minchin]

Any scope for hiding away a relay in the circuit that might have decent contacts compared to the switch?

Bob

[John Williamson]

My experience has been that intermittent working can be the first sign of a failing switch... If careful operation can get it to work, that's a second sign.

[Fredxx]

I would say a dodgy switch, or light fittings that aren't fit for purpose.

Did you mean switch(es)?

[tinnews]

As I pointed out "A change of switch has improved things a little", it's now a brand new switch. The 'old' switch is fine when used to switch other lights, I've tried it.

[Tabby]

The problem is with the ballast, no point blaming a perfectly functional switch. Solution involves either replacing the ballasts or showing us the circuit diagram of them, and perhaps someone will have an idea how to improve it.

NT