fluorescent starter?

Only older fixtures use these, I thinks... Most use other circuits to do this process(build up voltage and then close the circuit).

if you have the old technology ballast...like preheat etc etc you would need a starter

most "newer" ballasts...like rapid start or electronic start ballasts no longer need them

Magnetic ballasts need a starter. You'll still find them a lot in older office buildings etc. Most fixtures sold nowadays come with (way superior) electronic ballasts that don't need a starter.

I hated the flickering you got when turning on a light with those old school ballasts. Newer electronic ballasts are so much better.