So unless you mount solidly (using heat sink paste) to something substantial (i.e. don't just float it in the air) these devices will get hot. The derating is from 25 deg C where the device will operate at full rated power down to 0% at 275 degC. So properly mounted at any ambient temp you are going to be no more than 10% derated (i.e. maximum of 4.5 watts for 5W or 9 watts for 10W device)
5 ohms 10W is fine if you don't find the size objectionable.
Dan,
The 6 ohm resistor will actually will run hotter than the 5 ohm. I posted a set of power calculations in a matrix of voltage v.s. resistance . Even though this is counter intuitive it is true. You have to do the calculations to convince your self.
I = V / R_total
R_total = 12.5 + R_ballast + R_switch (use 1 ohm is you like for R_switch)
P_ballast = I^2*R_ballast
Also the switch seems to be dropping quite a bit of voltage (I calculate 1 ohm using Age's values) the 5 ohms is keeping the total current in check along with the switch.
Jim



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