FLUORESCENT LAMP ELECTRONIC BALLAST CONTROL CIRCUIT

摘要

An electronic ballast control apparatus and method for fluorescent lamps includes applying a heating current through the filaments of the lamp, and delaying the application of a rc current through the filaments and the gas for a predetermined time. This allows the filaments to heat up t o a level capable of sustaining thermionic emission, thereby eliminating sputtering damage upon the application of the arc current.