There are various different kinds of strobe lights. Or perhaps there’s a really good definition out there, and some of the products are misnamed. I have seen the following called “strobes”:

* A bright light that flashes at regular close intervals, often used to “freeze” motion. An example is an automotive engine timing light.
* A bright light that flashes at regular slow intervals, often as a warning. An example is the flashing red light at the top of radio station antennas, to warn airplanes.
* A bright light that flashes once, often used for photographic purposes. A protographer’s xenon flash lamp is a reusable alternative to “flash bulbs”.
* Just about anything built with a xenon flash lamp.

Xenon flash lamps are frequently used for strobes, but other things can serve as well. Some old turntables use a tiny NE-2 neon tube as a strobe to help set the rate or rotation.

Warning: Strobe circuits can be dangerous.

Strobe circuits are based on high voltages. This is true of even battery-operated units. It is extremely important to exercise appropriate cautions around this type of equipment to avoid electric shock. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist, like my wife, but you do need to be careful!

All strobe units must have their electronics fully enclosed in an insulating case. The xenon strobe lamp must have a cover, in case it shatters during operation. When you purchase a ready-to-use strobe, it should come with these features. Don’t open the case – it’s dangerous in there!

If you build a strobe, from scratch or a kit, you must make it fully enclosed in an insulating case. The xenon strobe lamp must have a cover, in case it shatters during operation.

http://www.horrorseek.com/home/halloween/wolfstone/Flash/xsbint_XenonStrobe.html

@Big Brother. Thanks for the comment. And it really works.