Product Overview

GE 97633 F32TBX/835/A/ECO Triple Biax T/E 32W CFL - 3500K Natural White

⚠️ Base Compatibility Warning: This 32W lamp uses a GX24q-4 base (4-pin), NOT GX24q-3. GX24q-4 is physically larger and keyed differently than GX24q-3 (26W). Verify your socket marking before ordering. We sell GX24q-4 sockets and compatible ballasts.

ℹ️ Part Number Note: You may see this listed as 97631 in some catalogs. The correct GE Current part number for 3500K is 97633. Part 97631 may be an older or regional variant. Both refer to the F32TBX/835/A/ECO 3500K lamp.

The GE 97633 F32TBX/835/A/ECO is a high-output 32-watt compact fluorescent lamp featuring a GX24q-4 4-pin base. This Triple Biax (T/E) CFL delivers 2,400 initial lumens of balanced 3500K natural white light with 82 CRI color rendering, making it ideal for offices, warehouses, retail, and hospitality applications requiring neutral color temperature with maximum light output.

♻️ Environmental: TCLP compliant with reduced mercury content (~3mg). End-of-life protected design. Recycle according to EPA Universal Waste Rule. Restricted States: CA, CO, HI, ME, MN, OR, RI, VT.

Technical Specifications - GE 97633

Product Identification

Manufacturer Part Number	97633 (may be marked 97631)
Product Code	F32TBX/835/A/ECO
NAED Order Code	97633
UPC	0043168976336
Product Series	Biax T/E Ecolux Triple Tube

Electrical & Photometric

Wattage (Lamp)	32 Watts
System Wattage	35W (includes ~3W ballast loss)
Voltage	120-277V (via compatible ballast)
Initial Lumens	2,400 lm
Mean Lumens	2,040 lm (85% maintenance)
Efficacy	75 lm/W
Color Temperature	3500K (Natural White / Neutral)
Color Code	835
Color Rendering Index (CRI)	82 Ra

Physical Characteristics

Bulb Shape	T4 Triple Biax (6 parallel tubes in triple configuration)
Tube Diameter	T4 (12.7mm / 0.5 inch)
Base Type	GX24q-4 (4-Pin, Programmed Start)
Maximum Overall Length (MOL)	5.5 inches (139.7 mm)
Maximum Width	4.75 inches (120.6 mm) across tube cluster
Operating Position	Universal (Any)

Performance & Compliance

Rated Average Life	12,000 hrs (3-hr cycles) / 17,000 hrs (12-hr cycles)
Mercury Content	3 mg (TCLP Compliant)
Start Type	Programmed Start (4-pin)
Warm-up Time	50% faster than standard CFL (Ecolux technology)
Dimming Capability	Yes - with compatible dimming ballast
ANSI Code	60901-IEC-3432-1

GX24q Base Identification Guide

It is critical to select the correct base type. GX24q bases are not interchangeable:

Base Type	Wattage	Pin Configuration	Compatible Ballasts
GX24q-2	18W	4-pin, smaller housing	GEC218 series
GX24q-3	26W	4-pin, medium housing	GEC226 series
GX24q-4 (This Lamp)	32W	4-pin, large housing	GEC232/GEC242 series
GX24q-5	42W	4-pin, extra-large housing	GEC242 series

? Verification Tip: Check the existing lamp base or socket for embossed markings. "q-4" or "32W" indicates GX24q-4. When in doubt, measure the socket opening: GX24q-4 is approximately 35mm wide, while GX24q-3 is approximately 30mm wide.

Compatible Electronic Ballasts - GX24q-4

⚠️ Critical: This 32W lamp requires GX24q-4 compatible ballasts. Do NOT use with 26W (GX24q-3) ballasts - they will underdrive the lamp or fail to start. We sell replacement ballasts and sockets for retrofit applications.

GE Electronic Ballasts for 32W Lamps

Model Number	Order Code	Type	Voltage	Lamp Capacity
GEC232-MVPS-BES	71446	Basic	120-277V	1x32W or 2x32W
GEC232-MVPS-3W	71448	3-Wire	120-277V	1x32W or 2x32W
GEC232-MVPS-SE	71447	Single Ended	120-277V	1x32W or 2x32W
GEC242-MVPS-BES	71439	Basic (26W/32W/42W)	120-277V	1x26W-42W or 2x26W-42W
GEC242-MVPS-3W	71441	3-Wire (26W/32W/42W)	120-277V	1x26W-42W or 2x26W-42W
GEC242-MVPS-SE	71440	Single Ended (26W/32W/42W)	120-277V	1x26W-42W or 2x26W-42W

Third-Party Compatible Ballasts

Philips Advance: ICF-2S32-H1-LD (IntelliVolt, 120-277V)
Universal Lighting: Triad C232UNVME-000K (Multi-volt)
Sylvania: QTP2X32/CF/UNV DM (Dimming capable)
OSRAM: QTP 2x32CF/UNV DM (Dimming)

? Dimming Note: To use dimming features, select ballasts marked "DM" or "Dim" and pair with 0-10V low-voltage or phase-control dimmers suitable for CFL loads. Standard incandescent dimmers will cause flickering and premature failure.

Recommended Applications for 3500K Natural White

Commercial Offices

Open Office Plans: 3500K natural white reduces eye strain while maintaining alertness
Conference Rooms: Neutral color temperature supports video conferencing and presentations
Reception Areas: Welcoming yet professional appearance
Task Lighting: Balanced color for detailed work without harshness

Retail & Hospitality

Big Box Retail: Natural white enhances merchandise without yellow cast
Hotel Lobbies: Professional ambiance for guest reception areas
Restaurant Dining: More flattering than 4100K, more energetic than 3000K
Showrooms: Accurate color rendering for product displays

Industrial & Warehouse

High Bay Manufacturing: 2,400 lumens provide excellent illumination for production
Distribution Centers: Neutral white improves inventory accuracy
Parking Garages: 12,000-17,000 hour life reduces maintenance
Security Lighting: Good visibility without harsh glare of cooler temperatures

3500K Natural White vs Other Color Temperatures

2700K (Warm White): 97630 - Residential, hospitality - cozy atmosphere
3000K (Soft White): 97631 - Retail, restaurants - flattering tones
3500K (Natural White): This lamp (97633) - Offices, commercial - balanced, professional
4100K (Cool White): 97632 - Industrial, medical - maximum alertness

Energy Savings: 32W CFL vs Alternatives

Based on 3,000 operating hours/year at $0.15/kWh electricity rate:

Specification	GE 97633 32W CFL	150W Incandescent	32W LED Retrofit
System Wattage	35W (lamp + ballast)	150W	32W (direct wire)
Lumen Output	2,400 lm	2,600 lm	2,400-2,800 lm
Annual Energy Cost	$15.75	$67.50	$14.40
Rated Life	12,000-17,000 hours	1,000 hours	50,000 hours
Efficacy	75 lm/W	17 lm/W	120-150 lm/W
10-Year Replacements	2-3 lamps	30 bulbs	0.6 lamp

? Save 77% on Energy: This CFL uses 77% less energy than incandescent equivalents, saving approximately $51.75 per year per lamp in electricity costs alone.

Key Features & Benefits

High Output: 2,400 lumens from compact 32W source - ideal for high-ceiling applications
Natural White: 3500K color temperature provides balanced, professional illumination
Ecolux Technology: 50% faster warm-up than standard CFLs with flicker-free instant start
Energy Efficiency: Up to 77% energy savings vs. 150W incandescent lamps
Extended Life: 12,000-17,000 hours (depending on cycle duration) - up to 17x longer than incandescent
TCLP Compliant: Low mercury content (3mg) meets US and Canada environmental standards
Universal Position: Same light output in any burning orientation
Dimmable: Compatible with appropriate dimming electronic ballasts for flexible lighting control
End-of-Life Protection: Safe failure mode prevents catastrophic rupture

Safety Information & Environmental Compliance

♻️ Mercury & Disposal

This lamp contains 3mg of mercury (TCLP compliant) but requires proper recycling at end of life. Do not dispose of in regular trash. Use EPA-approved CFL recycling centers or retailer take-back programs.

State Restrictions: Cannot ship to CA, CO, HI, ME, MN, OR, RI, VT due to mercury content laws.

⚠️ Operating Safety

Allow lamp to cool before handling (operates at 100°C+/212°F+)
Use only in fixtures rated for CFL use with proper ventilation
Do not use with photocells or timers not rated for CFL loads
End-of-life protection prevents rupture; lamp will darken gradually
Broken lamps: Ventilate area, avoid direct contact with mercury

✓ Certifications

TCLP Compliant (EPA 40 CFR Part 273)
ANSI C78.901 / IEC 60901 compliant base
RoHS Compliant (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)
CE Listed
UL Listed for dry/damp locations (verify fixture rating)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between GX24q-3 and GX24q-4 bases?

The GX24q-4 base (used on this 32W lamp) is physically larger than GX24q-3 (26W). GX24q-4 has a wider housing and different pin spacing to prevent insertion into wrong sockets. GX24q-3 is for 26W lamps only. Attempting to force a GX24q-4 lamp into a GX24q-3 socket will damage both the lamp and socket. Always verify the "q-4" marking on your socket before ordering.

Why does my lamp say 97631 instead of 97633?

GE Current's standard numbering is: 97630 (2700K), 97631 (3000K), 97633 (3500K), 97632 (4100K). However, some regional catalogs or older stock may use 97631 for 3500K. Both refer to the same F32TBX/835/A/ECO lamp with 3500K color temperature. If you need to verify, check the color code printed on the lamp: "835" confirms 3500K.

Is 3500K or 4100K better for office lighting?

3500K Natural White (this lamp) is generally preferred for general office lighting as it provides a balanced, professional appearance that's neither too warm nor too cool. 4100K Cool White is better for task-intensive areas, warehouses, or medical facilities where maximum alertness is needed. For offices with mixed use, 3500K is the safer choice.

Can I use a 26W ballast with this 32W lamp?

No. A 26W ballast (GEC226 series) will underdrive a 32W lamp, causing reduced light output, poor color rendering, and premature failure. You must use a 32W-compatible ballast (GEC232 or GEC242 series). The GEC242 series is multi-wattage and can handle 26W, 32W, or 42W lamps, making it ideal if you have mixed wattages.

Availability Notice: CFL products are being phased out due to federal energy efficiency regulations. Stock up for existing fixtures or consider LED retrofit options for new installations.

Manufactured by GE Current, a Daintree Company . Specifications subject to change without notice.

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GE 97631 F32TBX/835/A/ECO