What is the ballast's function?
A ballast serves to start a fluorescent or HID bulb by causing an arc
to form inside the bulb. Once the bulb is lit, the current flowing through the
bulb must be regulated to keep the arc operating at peak
efficiency.
Magnetic vs. Electronic Ballasts
High frequency electronic ballasts operate bulbs more
efficiently and eliminate the hum and visible flicker normally associated with
standard magnetic ballasts. With respect to linear fluorescent lamps,
electronic ballasts are designed to operate
T8 fluorescent tubes, while older-style
magnetic ballasts
are designed to operate
T12 fluorescent lamps.
Click here for more information
about various ballast types.
Instant Start, Rapid Start, and Programmed Start Electronic Ballasts
Many of the ballasts we sell feature instant start circuitry. Instant
start ballasts are very efficient, leading to a reduction in energy costs.
They have parallel circuitry that allows lamps to remain lit even after one
lamp has failed. They use 1.5 to 2 watts less per lamp than rapid start
electronic ballasts. Instant start ballasts also allow longer remote
wiring distance, easier installation, and the capability to start lamps at 0ºF
(versus 50ºF for rapid start). Programmed start ballasts heat the
electrodes to their optimum operating temperature, before voltage is applied to
start the lamp. This greatly reduces stress on the electrodes, and increases
lamp life.
Safety
Ballasts should be installed and operated in compliance with the National
Electronic Code, (NEC), Underwriters Laboratories Inc., (UL), requirements, and
all applicable codes and regulations. As it is possible to come in contact with
potentially hazardous voltages, only qualified personnel should perform ballast
installation. All installation, inspection, and maintenance of lighting
fixtures should be done with the power to the fixture turned off. The ballast
case and fixture must ALWAYS be grounded in order to insure safety, proper
start-up, and acceptable electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.