During start-up of the circuit shown in figure "B" of the illustration, it is noted that the ends of component "4" alternately glow and become dark without the tube illuminating. What is the most probable cause for this condition? Illustration EL-0081

Correct Answer: Option C — component "3" is shorted and therefore unable to produce the high voltage required to start the lamp

A shorted thermal starter capacitor fails to maintain the open-circuit period needed for the ballast inductor to generate the high-voltage inductive kick. This causes continuous flickering as the bimetallic strip repeatedly makes and breaks contact without striking the arc.