T5 question

[aaron]

I have a simple question, there seems to be a lot of confusion here in Australia about T5 lamps. I know there are two types - regular T5 and T5HO which are the high output ones. My question is does the HO designation only refer to the tubes or is it a whole other system? ie do you need a T5HO ballast to fire T5HO tubes or will any T5 ballast fire any T5 tube?
I have asked a few people and its hard to get s straight answer

 

[NYreefNoob]

Lets take a 36" bulb, reg t5 36" are 24 wattts as where ho 36" is 39w, yes it is a different ballast and bulb

 

[aaron]

Thanks, It seems in Australia they often drop the HO in describing them - so as long as I get my 39W i should be fine.

 

[ming]

FYI, it is possible to fire up a T5 (not high output) with a high output ballast and have it light up. The bulb lasted many months before cracking (yes, it actually cracked... possibly from burning too hot). I never tried the reverse if it holds true.