Abstract: Lamp systems, lamp assemblies, and methods of operating a lamp system are provided. The lamp system includes a lamp head and a lamp assembly having at least one end fixture for securing the lamp assembly in the lamp head. A data carrier is mounted to lamp assembly. The data carrier is configured to store an identifier, or operational data, or data representing the number of hours of operation, or data representing the lamp type associated with the lamp assembly, or any combination thereof. A data reader is configured to read information stored on the data carrier. A controller is operable to process the information read from the data carrier. The data carrier may alternatively store data representing the number of hours of operation and the lamp system may further include a data writer for updating the stored data to reflect operation of the lamp assembly.