Kylmäkatodivaloputki

Kylmäkatodivaloputki, often abbreviated as CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp), is a type of fluorescent lamp that differs from standard hot-cathode fluorescent lamps in its ignition and operation. Unlike hot-cathode lamps, which require a filament to heat up to emit electrons, CCFLs operate at lower temperatures. They consist of a glass tube filled with a noble gas, such as neon or argon, and a small amount of mercury. The inner surface of the tube is coated with a phosphor material. When a high voltage is applied across the electrodes at either end of the tube, it ionizes the gas, causing it to glow. This glow is typically in the ultraviolet spectrum, which then excites the phosphor coating, causing it to emit visible light.

CCFLs are known for their thin profile, durability, and relatively long lifespan. They have historically been used as backlighting solutions for liquid crystal displays (LCDs) in devices like monitors, televisions, and portable electronics. Their ability to produce a bright, even light in a compact form factor made them ideal for these applications. However, CCFLs have largely been superseded by light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in modern display technology due to LEDs' higher energy efficiency, longer lifespan, better color reproduction, and the ability to control dimming more precisely. CCFLs also contain mercury, which poses environmental concerns. While less common now, they may still be found in older devices or specific niche applications.