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Ushio BC2079 100W Short Arc Mercury Bulb — main product image
Ushio

Ushio BC2079 100W Short Arc Mercury Bulb

4.5"100W

Deliver 2,200 lumens of high-intensity illumination with the Ushio BC2079 100W short arc mercury bulb.

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Overview

The Ushio BC2079 100W Short Arc Mercury Bulb is an engineered lighting component built for specialized applications where a compact, high-intensity point source is essential. Producing 2,200 lumens from a 100-watt, 20-volt short arc design, it delivers a concentrated beam of light that is critical for equipment such as microscopy systems, optical projection units, UV curing stations, and scientific analytical instruments. The clear glass envelope ensures the full mercury spectrum passes through without color filtering, maintaining the spectral consistency that these applications demand.

With a rated average lifetime of 200 hours, the BC2079 is built for performance-per-hour rather than longevity — a characteristic common to short arc mercury lamps operating at this intensity level. The compact physical dimensions (4.5" x 1.75" x 1.25") allow it to fit within tight optical housings. Proper handling during installation is essential, as the quartz or glass envelope is sensitive to contamination from skin oils. For facilities and technicians who rely on precise, high-output illumination, the Ushio BC2079 is a proven, purpose-built replacement lamp from a manufacturer with a long track record in specialty lighting.

Key Features

Color/finish: clear

Average lifetime: 200 hours

Lumens (light output): 2200

Product Dimension: 4.5"L x 1.75"W x 1.25"H

Specifications

Brand
Ushio
Model
BC2079
Wattage
100W
Voltage
20V
Bulb Type
Short Arc Mercury Lamp
Color/Finish
Clear
Average Lifetime
200 hours
Lumens
2,200
Dimensions
4.5" L x 1.75" W x 1.25" H

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Strong 2,200-lumen output from a compact 100W lamp provides concentrated, high-intensity light
  • Short arc design produces a small, bright point source ideal for optical and projection systems
  • Clear glass envelope delivers unfiltered spectral output for technical accuracy
  • Ushio's manufacturing reputation offers consistent quality and reliability in demanding environments

👎 Cons

  • 200-hour average lifespan is relatively short, leading to frequent replacements in heavy-use applications
  • Requires a compatible ballast or dedicated power supply — not a standard socket lamp
  • Must be handled with gloves to avoid contamination that shortens bulb life
  • Limited to specialized equipment and not suitable for general-purpose lighting

Frequently Asked Questions

The Ushio BC2079 is designed for specialized technical and scientific equipment such as microscopes, projection systems, UV curing units, and analytical instruments that require a high-intensity point light source.
The BC2079 has a rated average lifetime of 200 hours, which is typical for high-intensity short arc mercury lamps used in demanding applications.
This lamp operates at 20 volts and requires a compatible ballast or power supply designed for short arc mercury bulbs.
The clear finish allows the full, unfiltered spectrum of the mercury arc to pass through, which is essential for applications requiring consistent, high-intensity illumination across specific wavelengths.
No. As with most short arc and high-intensity lamps, you should avoid touching the glass envelope with bare hands. Skin oils can cause hot spots that reduce bulb life. Use lint-free gloves during installation.

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