HID Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a HID/Xenon?
A: HID, High Intensity Discharge, is a relatively new technology for consumers. Unlike Halogen or Incandescent bulbs, HID bulbs do not have filaments. The HID bulb is filled with a mixture of gasses including Xenon. When the HID bulb is ignited, an arc is created between two electrodes. HID is not just a new type of bulb. It is a whole new lighting system. The system consists of an HID bulb, electronic starter and a ballast.
Q: Why is HID/Xenon light better than halogen light?
A: HID provides four to five times more light and ten times the life of Halogen. HID produces light that is nearly identical to ordinary daylight to provide brighter, cleaner and crisper visibility. Halogen bulbs produce a light that is much warmer, or yellow in appearance. With HID light objects are easier to recognize from greater distances and glare reflected off objects is greatly reduced. Because HID bulbs do not use filaments, breakage from shock and vibration is eliminated.
Q: Why does HID produce a blue/white light?
A: The light produced by an HID bulb is actually white. The light only appears blue in comparison to the warmer, yellowish light produced by a Halogen bulb. The light emitted by the HID bulb has a color temperature (often perceived in the blue scale) that is similar to daylight (known as "Daylight Color Impression"). They illuminate better, and their light appears more natural to the user.
Q: What is a ballast, and why do I need one?
A: Ballasts are technologically complex units. They convert incoming power into a high voltage that ignites and maintains a steady stream of energy to the HID bulb. Without a ballast to convert and regulate the incoming power, the HID bulb will not function. A ballast also acts as a monitor for the lighting system. If there is damage to either the starter or the bulb, the ballast shuts down the flow of power to prevent further damage and exposure.
Q: How can I make sure I don't buy an imitation product?
A: Xenon has become a buzzword equated with brighter headlights. Watch out for imitators! Some bargain basement companies offer Xenon-filled Halogen filament bulbs. These bulbs have had a blue film applied to them to make them appear more like HID bulbs. They are marketed as Xenon bulbs. While this may be technically correct, it is misleading. Xenon-filled Halogen bulbs will produce no more light than a standard Halogen bulb, and often less due to the blue coating. These bulbs are not as resistant to shock and vibration (require a filament), and require more power to operate than a true HID (Xenon) bulb. But no need to worry, at Loss Auto Lights we only offer real HID products.
Standard Halogen light vs. HID/Xenon light.
"Xenon Filled Halogen Bulb vs. Real HID/Xenons.
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