Overview
Thomas Research ESP-125 is a quartz restrike controller engineered to provide automatic auxiliary lighting control in High-Intensity Discharge (HID) systems. The unit activates an auxiliary quartz lamp when the primary HID lamp extinguishes, ensuring continuous illumination and eliminating unplanned downtime. This current-sensing design allows compatibility with virtually any lamp or ballast circuit configuration.
Key Features
- Current-sensing technology measures HID circuit draw rather than voltage, enabling use with diverse lamp/ballast combinations
- Automatic restrike activation when main HID lamp fails
- Compact form factor simplifies field installation and wiring
- Proven design for critical-lighting applications where failover protection is essential
- Supports HID circuits from 39 to 1500 watts
Technical Specifications
| Model | ESP-125 |
| Manufacturer | Thomas Research |
| Input Voltage | 120V AC |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| HID Circuit Range | 39–1500W |
| Auxiliary Lamp Capacity | 500W maximum |
| Control Type | Timed circuit with current sensing |
| Ballast Compatibility | Magnetic ballasts with 120V tap/input |
| Lamp Detection Method | Current draw measurement |
| Condition | New – No Box |
Typical Applications
- Sports facility lighting (stadiums, arenas, outdoor fields)
- Warehouse and industrial facility backup lighting
- Emergency and security lighting systems
- Outdoor area lighting with high availability requirements
- Theater and performance venue lighting
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- HID lamps: Metal halide, high-pressure sodium, mercury vapor
- Magnetic ballast systems with 120V control tap
- Quartz auxiliary lamps up to 500W
- HID circuits rated 39–1500W
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Verify specific replacement compatibility with your system integrator or facility maintenance team before ordering
Works With
- Standard 120V AC power distribution systems (50/60 Hz)
- Existing HID ballast and lamp assemblies
- Quartz restrike lamp kits and holders
- Facility-wide HID lighting infrastructure














