Quick Answer: The Spectrum Tube - Helium is a 260 mm discharge tube filled with helium gas, used to study typical gas spectra and to calibrate spectrometers.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Helium gas-filled discharge tube, 260 mm long
Metal end caps on a glass body
Constricted middle portion concentrates the discharge glow
Strikes at 2000 V - 4000 V; maximum recommended running current 3 mA
Run cycle of 30 seconds on and 30 seconds off recommended
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Tube length
260mm
Gas
Helium
Strike voltage
2000V - 4000V
Maximum recommended running current
3mA
Recommended run cycle
30 seconds on, 30 seconds off
About This Product
The tube is operated in a spectrum tube holder from an E.H.T. power supply, connected with E.H.T. safety experiment leads. Other individual tubes, including mercury vapour, neon, argon and hydrogen, are available separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What equipment is needed to operate it? A Spectrum Tube Holder, an E.H.T. Power Supply and E.H.T. Safety Experiment Leads.