Method and apparatus for starting difficult to start electrodeless lamps using a field emission source

摘要

An electrodeless lamp comprises an envelope containing a fill; a starting electrode in proximity to a given region of the envelope when lamp is started; a field emission source disposed inside the envelope at the given region; starting power source coupled to the electrode for applying an electric field to the field emission source to cause a discharge; and excitation power source coupled to the fill to sustain the discharge. A method for starting an electrodeless lamp is also disclosed, comprising the steps of providing bulb comprised of an envelope and a discharge forming fill in the envelope; providing a field emission source on an interior surface of the envelope at a given region; applying an electric field at the given region to cause field emission from the field emission source to cause a discharge; and coupling a power source to the fill to sustain the discharge.