Three-way compact fluorescent lamp system utilizing an electronic ballast having a variable frequency oscillator

摘要

A compact low-pressure gas discharge lamp assembly includes a base and a plurality of low-pressure gas discharge light generating elements mounted to the base. Each of the light generating elements is capable of being individually energized. A ballast circuit is provided which is capable of supplying electrical energy to a variable number of the low pressure gas discharge lighting elements. A three-way switch has an input connected with the ballast circuit and two outputs. Each output is connected with a different light generating element. The switch connects one of the outputs with the ballast circuit in a first switch position and another one of the outputs with the ballast circuit in a second switch position. Both of the outputs are connected with the ballast circuit in a third switch position. The ballast circuit includes an oscillator that oscillates at a frequency that varies as a function of the number of light generating elements connected by the switch to the ballast circuit.