Apparatus for operating discharge lamps

摘要

An apparatus for operating discharge lamps with a stable electric current supply and minimal dimensional area requirements. The apparatus includes an input power source coupled across a capacitor, establishing a first loop circuit. A discharge lamp may also be connected across the capacitor, thereby forming a second loop circuit. A first switch repeatedly turns ON and OFF, making and breaking the first loop circuit at a first frequency, and thereby charges the capacitor. A second switch repeatedly turns ON and OFF, making and breaking the second loop circuit at a second frequency, and thereby discharges the capacitor through the discharge lamp. A control mechanism controls the first and second switches for supplying a predetermined current to the discharge lamp for flickerless operation.