摘要 |
To largely, or entirely inhibit glow discharges during the start-up or run-on phase (Ta) of a high-pressure discharge lamp, the lamp is operated in a second time period (T2) immediately after ignition (T1) with continuous direct current during which the electrode of the lamp which then functions as an anode has reached emission temperature; in a third time period (T3), the polarity of the direct current is reversed and the other electrode, which now will function as an anode, is heated to emission temperature; thereafter, alternating current energy is supplied to both electrodes, typically in frequencies between 90 and 150 Hz. A suitable second time period (T2) can be about 2 to 2-1/2 second, the third time period (T3) being shorter. The total warm-up time may extend to a minute or more; current being supplied during the second, third and subsequent periods is usually higher, for example by a factor of 1.5 of the normal or rated operating current. |