Powering Neon or Aerolux bulbs

[rxtxau2]

Since most of the Aerolux style bulbs are US 110V styles & I'm in a 240V country, I was considering how to power them here.

I can use a transformer but I was wondering about other methods.

1.  Would just using a diode in series work.  That is used with some small motors etc but I don't know how it would go with these lamps.

2.  Would a high frequency inverter power supply working off batteries work?

3.  If a lamp has a blown resistor, does it work correctly if it touched to a high voltage source like a Van De Graaf generator or does that just energise all of the neon in it?

Thanks,
Brian

[adam2]

I would use a small transformer, they are very cheap in the sizes needed for these low wattage lamps.
A pair of identical lamps could be worked in series, but do not  try this with 2 lamps of different sorts as they are likely of different wattages

You could certainly use a battery powered inverter with a 110/120 volt output at 50 or 60 cycles.
I would avoid high frequency inverters. I dont believe that the high frequency will be a problem in itself, BUT these are often intended to power flourescent lamps, and if lightly loaded may produce a grossly excessive output voltage.