What does T5, T8 and T12 mean?
The "T" in lamp nomenclature represents the shape of the lamp-tubular. The number following the "T" usually represents the diameter of the lamp in eighths of an inch (1 inch equals 2.5 centimeters). T5 lamps have a diameter equal to 5 times an eighth of an inch, or 5/8". These lamps are approximately 40% smaller than T8 lamps, which are one inch in diameter, and almost 60% smaller than T12 lamps, which are 1½" in diameter. The picture above shows diagrams of lamp ends of T5, T8, and T12 lamps. The picture also shows that pin base type of T5 lamps is different from that of T8 and T12 lamps. T5 lamps have a miniature bi-pin base while T8 and T12 lamps use a medium bi-pin base.
Are T5 lamps the same length as T8 and T12 lamps?
NO.
T5 Bulbs do not fit T8 fixtures or vice - versa.
T5 lamps are slightly shorter than T8 and T12 lamps and therefore cannot be used as replacements for the larger lamps.
