Overview
The IOTA I-42-EM-A is a compact emergency lighting ballast designed for seamless dual-mode operation in existing fluorescent fixture installations. This UL-listed unit combines a ballast, rechargeable battery, charger circuit, and emergency inverter into a single enclosure, allowing the same fixture to serve both normal and emergency lighting functions. When AC power is present, the standard ballast operates normally while the battery charges. Upon power loss, the unit automatically switches to emergency mode and illuminates one or two existing lamps for a minimum of 90 minutes.
Key Features
- Integrated battery, charger, and inverter in single can eliminates need for separate components
- AC output ensures compatibility with new lamp technologies
- Operates one or two existing lamps for 90 minutes during power loss
- Meets or exceeds NEC, IBC, and Life Safety Code requirements
- Automatic switchover with no manual intervention required
- Maintenance-free unit requiring only periodic inspection and testing
Technical Specifications
- Input Voltage: Dual 120/277V, 60Hz
- Input Wattage: 3.5 Watts
- Maximum Light Output: 650 Lumens
- Emergency Runtime: 90 minutes
- Battery Recharge Time: 24 hours
- Battery Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F)
- Compatible Lamps: 10W-42W 4-pin Rapid Start Compact (Twin, Triple, Quad, 2D, Straight) and 18W-36W Long Compact
- Dimensions: 9.5 in. Length × 1.5 in. Height × 2.375 in. Width
- UL Listed for damp locations
Typical Applications
The IOTA I-42-EM-A is specified for emergency egress and backup lighting in commercial, institutional, and industrial facilities. Common installations include:
- Office and retail corridors and stairwells
- Hospital and healthcare facility emergency circuits
- School and educational building evacuation lighting
- Data center and utility room emergency backup
- Warehouse and manufacturing facility emergency egress
- Existing compact fluorescent downlight fixture retrofits
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Standard AC ballast circuits (120/277V, 60 Hz)
- Existing compact fluorescent fixture wiring
- Life Safety Code emergency lighting systems (NFPA 101)
- IBC and NEC emergency lighting requirements
- Damp location-rated indoor fixtures
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- I-42-EM-A-LOL (Lightolier “LOL” version with conduit on ends)
- I-42-EM-A-DL (straight conduit version)
- Standard non-emergency ballast circuits in existing fixtures requiring emergency function retrofit
Works With
- Compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) fixtures rated for emergency duty
- AC ballast wiring configurations (switched and unswitched circuits)
- IOTA test and battery monitoring accessories
- Emergency lighting design software and system integration tools
