evil!!!

I've always been fascinated as to what may cause a fluorescent lamp to instant start vs. rapid start. I've seen instant start CFL's start with a flicker or in steps like a rapid start on certain occasions, such as when put in base up instead of base down, or just randomly on certain days.

I've also seen linear, magnetic-ballasted fluorescent rapid start & preheat ballast occasionally instant-start a lamp.

All I can guess is that environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) and voltage (slightly high or low line voltage at a particular time, or at what point in the AC cycle the switch is turned on) may effect starting behavior.

i noticed sylvania has programmed/rapid start ballast in all of their cfls. also they make instant start ones too. i always buy slyvania or GE.