The Technical Vault
By SOSCleanroom
Lamp Deep Dive
Ushio UXL-S150M-O-KL • 150W Xenon Short Arc
Stable Arc
DC operation
High-pressure xenon
Ignition / trigger
Xenon Short-Arc Lamps: Why Arc Geometry, Ignition Discipline, and Power Regulation Decide Output Consistency
A Xenon Short-Arc Lamp Is an Optical “Reference Point”
In a short-arc system, the arc is the functional source. Reflectors and condensers are built around that small, intense emitting region.
When a replacement lamp is even slightly wrong (geometry, seating, electrode behavior), the result can be a shifted focal spot, reduced coupling efficiency,
or uneven illumination at the sensor/target plane. This is why instruments specify exact xenon short-arc families rather than general substitutes.
Power Supply Mode Matters (Constant Power + Ripple Control)
Xenon short-arc lamps are typically operated on DC supplies to stabilize the discharge. For this 150W class lamp, constant power control is commonly used,
and controlling current ripple helps protect arc stability and measurement repeatability. When output is unstable, the lamp is only one variable —
regulation quality, cabling, and igniter behavior can be equally decisive.
Ignition and Trigger Events Are Not “Free”
Short-arc xenon lamps require an igniter / trigger event to initiate the discharge. Excessive switching, unstable start routines, or marginal ignition circuits
can shorten service life and create intermittency that looks like a “bad lamp.” If you see repeated re-strikes, investigate the igniter, connectors, and supply margins
before blaming the lamp alone.
Orientation, Heat, and End-of-Life Risk
Xenon short-arc lamps are high-pressure devices. Lamphouse orientation tolerance, base temperature limits, and replacement timing matter.
Operating well past rated life increases rupture risk and can put optics and housings at risk. Treat lamp replacement as controlled maintenance, not as a casual swap.
SOSCleanroom Practical Tip
If performance changes right after a lamp change, check seating and optical alignment first. If performance drifts over time, check power regulation and igniter behavior.
Stable xenon output is a system result — lamp + supply + optics.
Disclaimer: Product and application information is provided for general guidance. Always verify compatibility, ignition requirements, orientation, and safety procedures using your equipment documentation and internal standards.
Xenon short-arc lamps are high-pressure devices and must be handled, operated, and disposed of per applicable requirements. Ushio® is a trademark of its respective owner; SOSCleanroom is not affiliated with or endorsed by the manufacturer.