Abstract: This invention relates to a glow discharge starter including a glow bottle having a hermetically sealed discharge envelope containing an ionizable medium, a bimetallic electrode and a counter electrode. A pair of conductors extending from the main body of a radio frequency suppressing capacitor electrically coupling respective electrodes of the glow bottle. The main body of the capacitor is in a thermal relationship with the discharge envelope and responsive to heat generated therewithin. When a predetermined temperature limit is reached within the discharge envelope, the generated heat creates a short circuit within the main body of the capacitor and extinguishes the glow discharge. The present invention eliminates the need for an additional fuse member or thermal protector.

Abstract: A glow discharge starter having an integral thermal protector includes a glow bottle having an hermetically sealed discharge envelope containing an ionizable medium, a bimetallic electrode and a counter electrode. A pair of conductors extend from the main body of a radio frequency suppressing capacitor and electrically couple respective electrodes of the glow bottle. The cylindrically-shaped main body of the capacitor is coaxially positioned with respect to the discharge envelope so as to be responsive to heat generated within the envelope. When an abnormal temperature limit (e.g., 450 degrees Celsius) is reached by the discharge envelope, a short circuit is created within the main body of the capacitor and extinguishes the discharge.

Abstract: A rapid-start fluorescent lamp includes a circuit breaker having a sealed glass bottle, a pair of electrical conductors sealed therein and passing therethrough and a thermally sensitive bimetal switch within the glass bottle with the bimetal switch having a pair of leg portions of unequal length.

Abstract: A circuit breaker for a rapid-start fluorescent lamp includes a pair of electrical conductors sealed into a glass bottle, a bimetal switch within the bottle having one end affixed and the other end contacting the pair of electrical conductors and a meltable by-pass element shunting the pair of electrical conductors and formed of a material having a relatively high cold resistivity and a low temperature coefficient of resistance.