Universal M5012-27CK-5EU-F

The Universal Triad® eHID 188612.02 Ballast is an architectural-grade, high-efficiency electronic HID ballast engineered to operate a single 50W ceramic metal halide (CMH) lamp. Utilizing advanced microprocessor-controlled resonance start technology, this premium module delivers precise voltage regulation to guarantee flicker-free, stable lamp performance while securing a 20% efficiency gain over standard magnetic ballasts. Outfitted with an auto-sensing IntelliVolt 120V to 277V input power line and a compact feet-mount housing case, it serves as a straightforward drop-in maintenance solution for commercial track systems, retail downlight rings, and landscape accents.

ADL Supply Expert Application & Replacement Guide

The Universal 188612.02 eHID ballast is primarily specified by electrical contractors, energy managers, and facility maintenance teams executing magnetic-to-electronic ballast upgrades in 50W CMH retail track fixtures, hospitality accent systems, commercial downlights, industrial low-bay units, and outdoor area luminaires where the 20%+ efficiency gain over magnetic ballast operation delivers measurable energy cost reductions on continuous-burn schedules. The dual ANSI code support for both M148 and M110 is a meaningful operational advantage for multi-manufacturer facility lamp inventories — both common 50W ceramic metal halide ANSI types are supported from a single ballast SKU, reducing stocking complexity for maintenance teams.

Critical Remote Mounting Lead Limitations and Dual ANSI Code Mapping: Maintenance crews executing retrofits must track an absolute electrical boundary when remote-mounting this module outside track cylinders: this ballast produces a high-voltage starter ignition pulse peaking up to 4,000V (4 kV) upon strike cycles. To prevent high potential current from tracking or grounding out through the fixture frame, **the maximum allowable wire run distance between the ballast chassis and the porcelain socket lampholder cannot exceed 5 feet**. Bypassing this distance block adds capacitive line resistance that dampens the ignition wave, leaving the lamp in a continuous unstriking loop that accelerates cathode degradation.

Contractors executing magnetic ballast replacements must verify that the existing fixture wiring is compatible with electronic ballast operation before installation: magnetic HID fixtures use a two-wire lamp connection (no separate ignitor wire in many configurations) while electronic eHID ballasts may require a dedicated ignitor lead connection depending on fixture wiring topology — review the Universal wiring diagram for this model against the fixture's existing lead configuration before proceeding. Confirm the fixture mounting channel accepts the feet-mount profile and that the side lead exit orientation clears internal fixture components.

Before You Order

Detailed Product Specifications

• Brand: LEDVANCE (Formerly Universal Lighting Technologies / Universal Douglas Series)
• Product Line Series: eHID Electronic Metal Halide Ballast
• Order Code / SKU: 188612.02
• Ballast Technology: Electronic HID (eHID) — Microprocessor Controlled
• Lamp Compatibility: One (1) 50W Ceramic Metal Halide lamp
• ANSI Codes Supported: M148 or M110
• Input Voltage: 120–277V AC universal auto-sensing (±10% operating tolerance)
• Input Frequency: 50 / 60 Hz
• Total Circuit Power Consumption: 55 Input Watts under continuous operational load
• Power Factor: Greater than 0.98 (Active Power Factor Correction)
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Less than 10%
• Energy Savings vs. Magnetic: Greater than 20%
• Sound Rating: Quiet / Silent (high-frequency operation)
• EOL Protection: End-of-Lamp-Life automatic shutdown
• Mounting Style: Feet Mount, Side Lead Exit
• Maximum Lead-Wire Remote Distance Limit: 5 Feet maximum tracking spacing (18 AWG copper wires)
• Maximum Case Temperature Threshold (Tc): 176°F (80°C)
• Minimum Ambient Starting Threshold: -4°F (-20°C)
• Dimensions: 5.51" L x 3.62" W x 1.57" H (140mm x 92mm x 40mm)
• Certifications: UL Type 1 Outdoor Rated, RoHS Compliant

Operation, Safety & Mounting Compliance

Electronic vs. Magnetic Wiring Compatibility

Electronic eHID ballasts operate at high frequency using microprocessor-regulated lamp power delivery — a fundamentally different circuit topology from the transformer-based CWA and reactor magnetic ballast designs they replace. While this ballast's universal voltage auto-sensing eliminates input voltage wiring concerns, contractors must review the fixture's internal wiring configuration before installation. Some older HID fixture housings were wired exclusively for magnetic ballast lead configurations and may require modification to accommodate the eHID lead layout. Always de-energize and lock out the circuit before opening the fixture housing, and verify all connections against the Universal 188612.02 wiring diagram before restoring power.

HID Warm-Up, Hot Restrike & EOL Protection

Despite high-frequency electronic operation, this ballast drives a 50W ceramic metal halide HID lamp that still requires a 2–4 minute warm-up period from cold ignition to reach full lumen output and stable color temperature. Following any power interruption, a hot restrike cool-down interval of 5–10 minutes must be observed before the lamp can re-ignite. The integrated EOL protection circuit monitors lamp operating parameters and automatically shuts the ballast down when the lamp reaches end-of-life voltage thresholds — this prevents sustained abnormal current draw that can damage lampholders, char fixture wiring, or create fire risk in enclosed fixture housings. Active power factor correction above 0.98 reduces reactive load on distribution panels, supporting compliance with utility demand programs and commercial energy codes.

Industry Cross-Reference Data

Legacy Cross-Reference: Direct electronic upgrade replacement for 50W ANSI M148 / M110 magnetic HID ballast positions in commercial, retail, hospitality, industrial, and outdoor CMH fixture installations.

Bulk Commercial Lighting Supply & Project Support

ADL Supply delivers commercial-volume logistical fulfillment, tiered commercial contractor discounting strategies, and full pallet project quoting options to electrical accounts across the United States.

For formal wholesale inquiries, volume pricing modifications, or manufacturer spec sheet documentation, reach our commercial branch directly at 1-800-235-3489. We are your commercial supply partners as an authorized wholesale Lighting Distributor In Doral, Florida.