Power Compact Light bulbs changed?

[scuba_dave]

I started to switch to PC bulbs over 4 years ago at my old house.
The bathroom light fixture was 100w, but would trip the heat sensor & shut it off. A 23w PC bulb worked wonders. One thing I actually liked was that the PC bulb would brighten slowly - nice on the eyes in the Am
I've become used to this slow power up on all of the PC bulbs in my house
I've never used these in areas where I need immediate light. My utility room has a normal bulb for instant light & a 2nd fixture with a PC bulb for more light
Of the bulbs - all many different brands & all performed roughly the same.
In 3 years I have only needed to replace 1 bulb - due to my hammering or I dropped it maybe

I just bought 2 new 4 paks of 23w PC bulbs made by n:vision
I put one in a new fixture I recently installed as you go into the main part of the basement. Turned it on & instant light!!
The bulb powers up instantly :idea:

So, have the PC bulbs changed? I'd like to say I can read all the fine print on the bulb, but my magnifying glass is missing right now

[mdshunk]

I have always observed that the el-cheapo compact fluorescent lamps had a delay between the time you turn on the switch and the time the lamp illuminates. This was never true with the better brands/models that I've always purchased at my supply house. I've never heard of N-Vision, but I'm glad you've had good results.

[scuba_dave]

I guess I should stop buying the El Cheapo Building #19 discount store bulbs for 49 cents :D

The recent purchases were still 49 cents each, but after an instant rebate

[AllanJ]

I think there must be manufacturing tolerances that allow some compact fluorescents to take a minute or two to reach full brightness while others seem to come on at or near full strength. I have several of the same kind and wattage (from Lights of America) that behave differently in the same room.

Also, in lower temperatures fluorescents tend to be dimmer. If the surrounding temperature is not that low and the interior of the bulb heats up enough, full brightness will still be achieved.