Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi,

My project this year is using a multimeter to test the power consumption of Incandescent, Compact Fluorescent, and LED lightbulbs, as shown at http://www.ehow.com/how_6762832_measure ... bulbs.html. And I can't find the "Light bulb test socket with accessible terminals and a plug" anywhere! I tried Radio Shack, Lowes, Home Depot (and other hardware stores), and the internet and I just can't find it. Does anybody know where I could find one?

Thanks,

Light Guy

Do you mean something like this: http://www.dreamstime.com/two-light-bul ... 247853.jpg

or this: http://www.lighting-bible.com/light-bulb.html?

It's strange that the hardware stores didn't have anything. Just out of curiosity, what did you specifically ask for? Maybe they didn't understand what you needed because the way things are phrased on eHow isn't always the best.

From what I understand of your project, it appears that you can buy a standard light socket along with wires and a plug for a wall outlet. I would suggest mounting everything on a wooden board with terminals to allow for your measurements. After you connect the light socket to the wall outlet. measure the voltage as described in the instructions by placing the multimeter in parallel with (across) the wires. Then to measure current, disconnect one of the wires, set the multimeter to amps (or milliamps) and place it in series with the light socket and the wall outlet. Of course you want be careful not to touch any of the bare wires or terminals with your hand or fingers. I hope this clarifies things. Good luck with your project.