'...I should be delighted to learn of an electronic sensor that wil detect
approaching dusk and switch a compact flourescent on for a predetermined
time (preferably not dusk to dawn)...'

Is this the sort of thing you are after

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/STNM3000B.html



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"Brian S Gray" wrote in message
...
On Thu, 4 Sep 2003 20:45:05 +0100, "JimM"
wrote:

Don't know exactly why these are not supposed to be suitable, think it's
something about the switches/sensors needing a small amount of permanent
current to operate...

Anyway I use the Ikea low energy bulbs in an outside light that is on a
dusk
to dawn sensor with no problems

HTH

Jim
You can use most compact flourescents on a MECHANICAL timer as
far as I know, but not with most (all?) electronic timers.
When I tried to use one with a low light sensor indoors (on
recommendation of a local shop!) the light flashed at about one second
intervals when the light should have been off (and the shop took it
back when I complained).
My particular sensor can tell whether the circuit is complete
or not which must mean a low current at least for some of the time.
I should be delighted to learn of an electronic sensor that
wil detect approaching dusk and switch a compact flourescent on for a
predetermined time (preferably not dusk to dawn)