Im thinking of using cold cathode lamps to replace the trunk lamp in my Contour. The stock piece would probably work fine, but the even light from the flourescent would illuminate the front of my sub box better.

I figure a computer lighting kit would most likely be the least expensive way to go. The one I have run across even has the bulb and inverter encased in plastic to protect them (and anything else that might touch them). Anyway, the kit I have found comes with a dual inverter, and one bulb. The bulb that comes with the kit is rated at 29,000 cd/m2. The lamp(s) would operate like stock and only be on when the trunk was open. I would still probably build a reflector to help throw all the light into the trunk instead of up through the package tray.

I am assuming that one would most likely be enough to light everything, two would probably do it better. It just seems like that is an awful lot of light, but then I have never been the best at cd/lumen conversion. Would two do the job, or be overkill?

-Jon

The section "What is the difference betwen cd an lm?" on http://faq.auto.light.tripod.com/hl-general.htm describes how to convert candela to lumen.

A computer lighting kit is probably the easistest way, just be awaye that 12V in a PC is not the same as 12V in a car. A car has 12V system voltage, with an operating range of 10-16volts. Transient spikes up to 100 volts can appear when operating solenoids and electrical motors. These will eventually kill unprotected equipment. A driver curcuit will help alot, which can be made in many ways, all depending on load.

What exactly is needed to build the driver circuit? I have the link of the kit that I was looking at on the other computer so I dont know its power needs directly. I will look at the kit or on digikey.com and see what the needs of the inverter are.

Wouldn't it just be easier to go to Advance, AutoZone, Murrey's, Pep Boys, or etc. and get any of the already prepped automotive CCF lamps that are sold for decorative purposes?

I have never seen white offered at any of those places. Most are blue, purple, or blacklight. Not quite right for what I have in mind.

Otherwise, I would be all over it.