FAQ
FAQ
What are MC Electronic’s hours of operation?
Hours of operation: M-F 8am – 5pm EST; SA 8am-12pm EST; SU by appointment
Where is MC Electronics located?
MC Electronics
53-63 Main Street
Athol, MA 01331 USA
Phone: (978) 249 – 6474
For an interactive map click here: Map
What is an electronic ballast?
Ballasts are used where a load does not regulate its own current consumption well enough. These are most often used when an electrical circuit or device presents a negative (differential) resistance to the supply. If such a device were connected to a constant-voltage power supply, it would draw an increasing amount of current until it was destroyed or caused the power supply to fail. To prevent this, a ballast provides a positive resistance or reactance that limits the ultimate current to an appropriate level. In this way, the ballast provides for the proper operation of the negative-resistance device by appearing to be a legitimate, stable resistance in the circuit.
An electronic ballast (sometimes called control gear) is a device intended to limit the amount of current in an electric circuit. Ballasts vary greatly in complexity. They can be as simple as a series resistor as commonly used with small neon lamps or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). For higher-power installations, too much energy would be wasted in a resistive ballast, so alternatives are used that depend upon the reactance of inductors, capacitors, or both. Finally, ballasts can be as complex as the computerized, remote-controlled electronic ballasts now often used with fluorescent lamps.
What service does MC Electronics provide specifically for the ballast category?
MC Electronics has engineered its products and tailored its services for the indoor tanning industry since the mid 1980s. We provide service and equipment for new and replacement ballasts; we manufacture ballasts as well as provide products for retrofits and upgrades of existing equipment. For the manufacture market we have a universal ballast combined with a line of inexpensive custom adapter harnesses that mate with specific tanning bed and booth types. The combination of these two products allows the replacement of old electronic and magnetic ballasts dating back to about 1980. You will find the ease of installation refreshing, including our user-friendly design which allows the user to select the required input voltage of 115 volts or 230 volts in less than ten seconds! Distributors no longer have to stock multiple replacement ballasts. By stocking our “Fits-All” replacement ballast, salon owners’ needs can be met for most every replacement with a handful of inexpensive adapter harnesses. Why stock lots of different ballasts when you can stock just one?
And for those who would rather trade-in the ballast instead of the bed, we have products for retrofits and upgrades of your existing equipment.
What brands of electronic ballasts do you carry?
MC Electronics has the following brands of iIndoor tanning ballast applications available: Alisun, FST, Fyrnetics, General Electric, Image 1000, Kesio, Magnetek, Solaire, Super Sun, Triad, and Tan America.
What is the warranty for repair services?
Repair services are covered for 90 days except for new electronic ballasts which are covered for 2 years. New and used indoor tanning and hydrotherapy equipment are covered for 1 year (parts and labor).
Where are service and repairs performed?
We can perform service repairs at our facility or we can arrange on-site servicing depending on your location.
I’m not sure what type of equipment or service I need; do you do specialty work?
MC Electronics frequently performs custom or specialty wiring services for a wide variety of industries and businesses both large and small. Please contact us to inquire about your specific project. Contact
What is The Restoration Center?
MC Electronics is part of a family owned and operated business, called The Restoration Center. Chris Colo is President and Electrical Engineer at MC Electronics while his father, Thomas Colo runs multiple automotive sales and service businesses. Together, the Colos share business innovations through collaboration that benefit all the businesses and their customers. The Restoration Center has a stellar reputation for quality products and service. For more information on the Colos click on “Our Story”.