Measuring Lamps
All lamps have a specific “bulb type” designation that describes the shape of the lamp and the size of the lamp (diameter). The designation is a two part code consisting of a letter and a number. The letter indicates the shape of the lamp and the number relates to the diameter of the lamp in eighths of an inch.
The reference ruler illustrates the most commonly used household lamp, an A19. The “A” indicates the shape (standard) and the diameter would be 23.8″, which is “19” eights of an inch.
All lamp types are available in a variety of technologies and therefore may vary in appearance. Maximum overall length (MOL) will also vary.
Additional popular lamp designations are also indicated on the reference ruler.
Abbreviation Guide
A: Arbitrary (Standard) and so many more.....
| PS: Pear Shape | B/BA: Bulged, Bulged with angular tip |
| F: Flame | C/CA: Conical, Candel shape with bent tip |
| R: Reflector | RP: Reflector, Pear shape |
| BR: Bulbous Reflector | S: Straight-sided shape (compare with CA and BA) |
| G: Globe | ST: Spherical Tubular |
| T: Tubular | MR: Multi-Faceted Reflector |
| BT: Bulged Tubular | E/ED: Elliptical, Elliptical with dimple in the crown |
| AR: Aluminized Reflector | PAR: Parabolic Aluminized Reflector |
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