Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Timer on Fluorescent

I have several fluorescent bulbs I purchased from IKEA. I would like to use these in various fixtures around the house, most of which are on timers. The bulbs state in the enclosed warnings “not for use with electronic timers”. I cannot figure out what the difference would be between me turning on the lamp and a timer turning on the lamp. I would also like to replace my front porch light switch with a timer, however that fixture is strickly fluorescent. Again, what would be the difference? Any help would be greatly appreciated

If you find a timer switch that makes a mechanical connection, as does an ordinary wall switch, then you can use it. But electronic switches do not make a mechanical connection. If the switch doesn't make a clicking noise when it turns on or off, don't use it.

Thank you for responding so quickly. I think you've answered my question. If I use the old style rotary timer that has to trip the little plastic tabs that you insert for on and off times I'll be okay. However, I should stop using the new programmable digital style. Thanks again for the help.

You don't need to swear off programmable timers, just read the label to see what types of lighting they support. For example, I got one from my local big box store with all sorts of programmable features, including:
- replacement wall switch that fits into a standard switch box
- battery power so it never loses time or program
- randomizing options so it doesn't have to come on exactly the same time every day
- the entire front is a big on/off button so I don't have to think about how to manually switch it
- programming, all sorts of programming
- the concepts of sunrise and sunset that change through the year so for example I can program a light to be on from sunset to 10pm on weekdays and it just works.

The label said it works on fluorescent lights; that's all you need to look for.

The label also said it uses a relay (mechanical switch operated magnetically).