1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your SYLVANIA METALARC PRO-TECH MP50/U/MED 50 Watt Pulse Start Metal Halide Lamp. Please read this manual thoroughly before use and retain it for future reference.
The SYLVANIA METALARC PRO-TECH MP50/U/MED is a 50-watt pulse start metal halide lamp designed for various lighting applications. It features a protected arc tube, a 3000K color temperature, and a medium E17 base, ensuring reliable performance and universal burn capability.

Figure 1: SYLVANIA METALARC PRO-TECH MP50/U/MED 50W Metal Halide Lamp. This image displays the clear glass bulb with its internal metal halide arc tube and the E17 medium screw base.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Metal halide lamps operate at high temperatures and pressures. Improper handling or installation can result in serious injury or property damage. Always follow these safety guidelines:
- Power Disconnection: Always disconnect power to the fixture before installing, removing, or servicing the lamp.
- Proper Fixture: Use only in enclosed fixtures rated for metal halide lamps of the correct wattage and ANSI designation (M110/O).
- Ballast Requirement: This lamp requires a compatible pulse start ballast for operation. Do not operate without a proper ballast.
- Eye Protection: Avoid direct exposure to the lamp's light output, especially during initial ignition, as it can be very intense.
- Handling: Handle lamps by the base, not the glass envelope. Avoid touching the glass with bare hands, as oils can cause hot spots and reduce lamp life.
- Disposal: Dispose of spent lamps according to local regulations. Metal halide lamps contain mercury.
- Operating Temperature: Allow lamps to cool completely before handling.
- Lamp Enclosure: Operate only in fixtures with a protective lens or shield to contain hot particles in case of lamp rupture.
3. Setup and Installation
- Verify Compatibility: Ensure your fixture and ballast are compatible with a 50W pulse start metal halide lamp with an E17 base and ANSI M110/O designation.
- Power Off: Turn off the power supply to the lighting fixture at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Cool Down: If replacing an existing lamp, allow the old lamp to cool completely before removal.
- Remove Old Lamp: Carefully unscrew the old lamp from the socket.
- Inspect Fixture: Check the fixture socket for any damage or corrosion. Clean if necessary.
- Install New Lamp: Holding the new SYLVANIA MP50/U/MED lamp by its E17 base, carefully screw it into the fixture socket until it is finger-tight. Do not overtighten.
- Secure Enclosure: Ensure any protective lens or cover on the fixture is securely closed before restoring power.
- Restore Power: Turn on the power supply to the fixture.
Note: Metal halide lamps require a warm-up period to reach full brightness and color stability. This typically takes several minutes.
4. Operating Instructions
- Initial Ignition: Upon first power-up, the lamp will ignite and gradually increase in brightness and color temperature.
- Warm-up Time: Allow approximately 2-5 minutes for the lamp to reach its full light output and stable color.
- Restrike Time: If the lamp is turned off, it requires a cool-down period (typically 5-15 minutes) before it can be re-ignited. Attempting to restrike a hot lamp prematurely may prevent ignition or reduce lamp life.
- Universal Burn Position: This lamp is designed for universal burn, meaning it can operate in any orientation (base up, base down, horizontal).
- Ballast Compatibility: Always ensure the lamp is paired with a compatible pulse start ballast. Incompatible ballasts can lead to premature lamp failure or improper operation.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the outer glass envelope of the lamp and the fixture's protective lens with a soft, dry cloth to maintain optimal light output. Ensure power is off and the lamp is cool before cleaning.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect the lamp for any signs of damage, such as cracks or discoloration. Replace damaged lamps immediately.
- End of Life: Metal halide lamps experience lumen depreciation over time. Replace lamps when light output significantly diminishes or when they begin to cycle on and off (cycling).
- Replacement: When replacing the lamp, always follow the installation steps outlined in Section 3.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Lamp does not light. |
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| Lamp cycles on and off. |
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| Reduced light output. |
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If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, consult a qualified electrician or contact SYLVANIA customer support.
7. Specifications
| Brand | SYLVANIA (OSRAM) |
| Model Name | MP50/U/MED |
| Part Number | 64587 |
| Light Type | Metal Halide (HID) |
| Wattage | 50 Watts |
| Bulb Shape Size | E17 |
| Bulb Base | E17 (Medium) |
| Color Temperature | 3000 Kelvin (Warm White) |
| Brightness | 5000 Lumens |
| Special Feature | Long Lasting, Protected Arc Tube, Pulse Start |
| ANSI Code | M110/O |
| Burn Position | Universal |
| Material | Metal |
| Item Weight | 0.32 ounces |
| Package Dimensions | 6 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches |
| UPC | 046135645877 |
8. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official SYLVANIA product documentation or visit the SYLVANIA website. Contact details for support are typically provided with the product packaging or on the manufacturer's official website.







