How to light a fluorescent lamp with a step-up transformer. Fluorescent lamp switching circuit - overview of options

(ECG) fluorescent lamps burn out. This happens with large luminaires, and with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), more commonly known as economy lamps. And if the burned-out electronics can be repaired, they are simply thrown away.

It is clear that if one of the filaments burns out in the lamp connected to the choke with the starter or to the electronic ballast, the lamp will not turn on. In addition, the old "Brezhnev" connection scheme has several more drawbacks: protracted start-up by the starter, accompanied by annoying blinking; flickering lamp with double the frequency of the network.

However, the solution is simple - to power the fluorescent lamp not with alternating, but with direct current, and in order not to use capricious starters, you need to apply an increased mains voltage at startup. Thus, not only will the light source stop flickering, but even after connecting according to a new scheme, even a burned-out fluorescent lamp will work for more than one year.

To start with a multiplied mains voltage, it is not necessary to heat the spirals - the electrons for the initial ionization will be torn out already at room temperature, even from burned out spirals. Since heating to a temperature of 800–900 degrees is not needed for a glowing starting discharge, the service life of any fluorescent lamp, and with whole spirals, is sharply extended. After starting, the pieces of filament become warm due to the steady flow of electrons. The simplest schemehaving these advantages is as follows:

The figure shows a full-wave rectifier circuit with voltage doubling, here the lamp lights up instantly

When connected according to this scheme, it is necessary to connect together both external terminals of each filament of the lamp - it does not matter if they are burned out or intact.

Capacitors C1, C4 need non-polar ones with an operating voltage of more than 2 times the mains voltage (for example, MBM is not lower than 600 volts). This is the main disadvantage of the circuit - it uses two high-capacity capacitors for high voltage. Such capacitors have significant dimensions.

Capacitors C2, C3 are also needed non-polar and it is desirable that they be mica for a voltage of 1000 V. On diodes D1, D4 and capacitors C2, C3, the voltage jumps to 900 V, which ensures reliable ignition of a cold lamp. Also, these two capacitors contribute to the suppression of radio interference. The luminaire can be ignited without these capacitors and diodes, but with them switching on becomes more reliable.

The resistor must be wound independently from nichrome or manganin wire. The power dissipated on it is significant, since the luminous fluorescent lamp does not have its own internal resistance.

Detailed ratings of circuit elements, depending on the power of the lamp, are given in the table:

Diodes can be used, not necessarily those indicated in the table, but similar modern ones, the main thing is that they are suitable in terms of power.

To light a stubborn lamp, a foil ring is wound on one of the ends and connected with a wire to a spiral on the opposite side. Such a 50 mm wide bezel is cut from thin foil and glued to the lamp bulb.

It should be noted that the fluorescent lamp is not at all designed to operate on direct current. With such a power supply, the luminous flux from it weakens over time due to the fact that mercury vapor inside the tube gradually collects near one of the electrodes. Although, it is quite easy to restore the brightness of the glow, you just need to turn the lamp over, swapping the plus and minus positions at its ends. And in order not to disassemble the lamp at all, it makes sense to install a switch in it in advance.

In the base of a small CFL, it is, of course, impossible to fit such a scheme. But why is it necessary! You can also assemble the entire starting circuit in a separate box and connect it to the lamp through long wires. It is important to pull out all the electronics from the energy-saving lamp, and also short-circuit the two terminals of each of its threads. The main thing is not to forget, and not to stick a working lamp into such a homemade lamp.

Homemade wind turbine. Wind turbine based on asynchronous motor Connecting fluorescent lamps through electronic ballasts

Despite the emergence of more "advanced" lED lamps, devices daylight continue to be in demand due to the affordable price. But there is one catch: you can't just plug them in and light them up, unless you put in a couple of additional elements. Electrical diagram connecting fluorescent lamps, which includes these parts, is quite simple and serves to run lamps of this type. You can easily assemble it yourself after reading our material.

The device and features of the lamp

The question arises why it is necessary to assemble some kind of circuit to turn on such bulbs. To answer it, it is worth analyzing their principle of operation. So, fluorescent (otherwise - gas-discharge) lamps consist of the following elements:

1. A glass flask whose walls are coated from the inside with a phosphorus-based substance. This layer emits a uniform white glow when exposed to ultraviolet radiation and is called a phosphor.
2. On the sides of the flask, sealed end caps with two electrodes each are installed. Inside, the contacts are connected by a tungsten filament covered with a special protective paste.
3. The daylight source is filled with inert gas mixed with mercury vapor.

Reference. Glass flasks are straight and curved in the form of the Latin "U". The bend is done in order to group the plug-in contacts on one side and thus achieve greater compactness (for example, widely used housekeeping bulbs).

The glow of the phosphor causes a stream of electrons passing through the mercury vapor in an argon atmosphere. But first, a steady glow discharge should appear between the two filaments. This requires a short high voltage pulse (up to 600 V). To create it when you turn on the lamp, you just need the aforementioned parts, connected according to a certain scheme. The technical name of the device is ballast or control gear (ballast).

In housekeepers, the control gear is already built into the base

Traditional circuit with electromagnetic ballast

In this case, the key role is played by a coil with a core - a choke, which, due to the phenomenon of self-induction, is able to provide a pulse of the required magnitude to create a glow discharge in a fluorescent lamp. How to connect it to the power supply through the choke is shown in the diagram:

The second element of the ballast is a starter, which is a cylindrical box with a capacitor and a small neon lamp inside. The latter is equipped with a bimetallic plate and acts as a circuit breaker. Connection via electromagnetic ballast works according to the following algorithm:

1. After the contacts of the main switch are closed, the current passes through the choke, the first filament of the lamp and the starter, and returns through the second tungsten filament.
2. The bimetallic plate in the starter heats up and closes the circuit directly. The current increases, which is why the tungsten filaments begin to heat up.
3. After cooling, the plate takes on its original shape and opens the contacts again. At this moment, a high voltage pulse is formed in the choke, causing a discharge in the lamp. Further, to maintain the glow, 220 V is enough coming from the mains.

It looks like the filling of the starter - only 2 parts

Reference. The principle of connection with a choke and a capacitor is similar to an automobile ignition system, where a powerful spark on the spark plugs jumps at the moment the high-voltage coil breaks.

The capacitor installed in the starter and connected in parallel with the bimetallic interrupter has 2 functions: prolongs the action high voltage pulse and serves as protection against radio interference. If you need to connect 2 fluorescent lamps, then one coil will be enough, but two starters are required, as shown in the diagram.

More details about the operation of gas-discharge lamps with ballasts are described in the video:

Electronic switching system

Electromagnetic ballast is gradually being replaced by a new electronic electronic ballast system, devoid of such disadvantages:

• long lamp start (up to 3 seconds);
• crackling or clicks when turning on;
• unstable operation at air temperatures below +10 ° С;
• flicker of a low frequency, detrimental to human vision (the so-called stroboscope effect).

Reference. The installation of daylight sources is prohibited on production equipment with rotating parts precisely because of the strobe effect. Under such lighting, a deception of sight occurs: it seems to the worker that the spindle of the machine is stationary, but in fact it is spinning. Hence, industrial accidents.

Electronic ballast is a single block with contacts for connecting wires. Inside there is an electronic board of the frequency converter with a transformer, which replaces the outdated control gear of the electromagnetic type. Wiring diagrams for fluorescent lamps with electronic ballast are usually shown on the unit body. Everything is simple here: on the terminals there are designations where to connect the phase, zero and ground, as well as the wires from the lamp.

Running light bulbs without a starter

This part of the electromagnetic ballast fails quite often, and there is not always a new one in stock. To continue using the daylight source, you can put a manual breaker instead of a starter - a button, as shown in the diagram:

The bottom line is to manually simulate the operation of a bimetallic plate: first close the circuit, wait 3 seconds until the lamp threads warm up, and then open it. It is important here to choose the right button for a voltage of 220 V so that you do not get an electric shock (suitable from a regular doorbell).

During the operation of the fluorescent lamp, the coating of tungsten filaments gradually crumbles, which can cause them to burn out. The phenomenon is characterized by blackening of the edge zones near the electrodes and indicates that the lamp will soon fail. But even with burnt-out spirals, the product remains operational, only it must be connected to the mains according to the following scheme:

If desired, the gas-discharge light source can be ignited without chokes and capacitors, using a ready-made mini-board from a burnt out energy-saving light bulb that works on the same principle. How to do this is shown in the following video.

When choosing a modern way of lighting a room, you need to know how to connect a fluorescent lamp yourself.

The large surface area of \u200b\u200bthe glow contributes to obtaining even and diffused illumination.

Therefore, it is this option that has become very popular and in demand in recent years.

Fluorescent lamps are gas-discharge sources of illumination characterized by the formation of ultraviolet radiation under the influence of an electric discharge in mercury vapor with subsequent transformation into a high visible light output.

The appearance of light is due to the presence on the inner surface of the lamp of a special substance called a phosphor that absorbs UV radiation. Changing the composition of the phosphor allows you to change the tint range of the glow. The phosphor can be represented by calcium halophosphates and calcium-zinc orthophosphates.

The principle of operation of a fluorescent light bulb

The arc discharge is maintained by the thermionic emission of electrons on the surface of the cathodes, which are heated by passing the current limited by the ballast.

The lack of fluorescent lamps is represented by the inability to make a direct connection to the electrical network, which is due to the physical nature of the lamp glow.

A significant part of the luminaires designed for the installation of fluorescent lamps have built-in glow mechanisms or chokes.

Fluorescent lamp connection

In order to correctly carry out an independent connection, you must choose the right fluorescent lamp.

Such products are marked with a three-digit code containing all information on the quality of light or color rendering index and color temperature.

The first digit of the marking indicates the level of color rendition, and the higher these indicators are, the more reliable color rendition can be obtained during lighting.

The designation of the glow temperature of the lamp is represented by digital indicators of the second and third order.

The most widespread is an economical and highly efficient connection based on an electromagnetic ballast, supplemented by a neon starter, as well as a circuit with a standard electronic type ballast.

Diagrams for connecting a fluorescent lamp with a starter

It is quite simple to connect an incandescent lamp on your own, due to the presence in the kit of all the necessary elements and a standard assembly diagram.

Two tubes and two chokes

The technology and features of independent serial connection in this way are as follows:

• phase wire supply to ballast input;
• connecting the throttle output to the first contact group of the lamp;
• connecting the second contact group to the first starter;
• connection from the first starter to the second lamp contact group;
• connection of a free contact with a wire to zero.

The second tube is connected in a similar way. From the ballast, there is a connection to the first lamp contact, after which the second contact from this group goes to the second starter. Then the starter output is connected to the second lamp pair of contacts and the free contact group is connected to the zero lead-in wire.

This method of connection, according to experts, is optimal in the presence of a pair of light sources and a pair of connecting kits.

Wiring diagram for two lamps from one choke

Self-connection from one choke is a less common, but completely uncomplicated option. Such a two-lamp series connection is economical and requires the purchase of an induction choke, as well as a pair of starters:

• a starter is connected to the lamps by means of a parallel connection to the pin output from the ends;
• sequential connection of free contacts to the electrical network using a choke;
• connection of capacitors in parallel to the contact group of the lighting device.

Two lamps and one choke

Standard switches belonging to the category of budget models are often characterized by sticking contacts as a result of increased starting currents, therefore, it is advisable to use special high-quality versions of contact switching devices.

How to connect a fluorescent lamp without a choke?

Let's consider how the fluorescent fluorescent lamps are connected. The simplest throttleless connection scheme is used even on burnt-out fluorescent tubes and is distinguished by the absence of the use of a filament.

In this case, the power supply of the lamp tube is due to the presence of an increased DC voltage through the diode bridge.

Lamp switching circuit without a choke

Such a scheme is characterized by the presence of a conductive wire or a wide strip of foil paper, one side connected to the terminal of the lamp electrodes. For fixing at the ends of the bulb, metal clips of the same diameter as the lamp are used.

Electronic ballast

The principle of operation of a lighting device with electronic ballast is the passage of an electric current through a rectifier, with the subsequent entry into the buffer zone of the capacitor.

In electronic ballast, along with the classic starting control devices, the start and stabilization is carried out by means of a throttle. The power supply depends on the high frequency current.

Electronic ballast

The natural complication of the circuit is accompanied by a number of advantages over the low-frequency version:

• improving performance indicators;
• elimination of the flickering effect;
• reduction in weight and dimensions;
• lack of noise during work;
• increased reliability;
• long service life.

In any case, one should take into account the fact that electronic ballasts belong to the category of impulse devices, therefore, their activation without sufficient load is the main cause of failure.

Checking the performance of the energy-saving lamp

Simple testing allows you to timely identify a breakdown and correctly determine the root cause of the malfunction, and sometimes perform the simplest repairs yourself:

• Dismantle the diffuser and carefully examine the fluorescent tube in order to detect areas of pronounced blackening. A very rapid blackening of the ends of the flask indicates a burnout of the spiral.
• Check the filaments for breaks with a standard multimeter. In the absence of damage to the threads - resistance indicators can vary within 9.5-9.2Om.

If the lamp check did not show any malfunctions, then the lack of functioning may be due to the breakdown of additional elements, including the electronic ballast and the contact group, which quite often undergoes oxidation and needs to be cleaned.

Checking the throttle performance is carried out by turning off the starter and closing to the cartridge. After that, you need to short-circuit the lamp holders and measure the choke resistance. If the desired result cannot be obtained by replacing the starter, then the main malfunction, as a rule, lies in the capacitor.

What Causes the Danger in an Energy Saving Lamp?

Various energy-saving lighting devices that have recently become very popular and fashionable, according to some scientists, are capable of causing quite serious harm not only to the environment, but also to human health:

• poisoning with mercury-containing vapors;
• lesions of the skin with the formation of a pronounced allergic reaction;
• increased risk of developing malignant tumors.

Flickering lamps often cause insomnia, chronic fatigue, decreased immunity and the development of neurotic conditions.

It is important to know that mercury is released from a broken bulb of a fluorescent lamp, therefore, operation and further disposal must be carried out in compliance with all rules and precautions.

A significant reduction in the service life of a fluorescent lamp, as a rule, is provoked by voltage instability or malfunctions in the ballast resistance, therefore, if the electrical network is not of high quality, it is assumed that ordinary incandescent lamps are used.

Video on the topic

(or as we used to call them Daylight lamp) are ignited by a discharge generated inside the bulb.
if anyone is interested in learning about the device of such a lamp, about their advantages and disadvantages, then you can look at.

In order to obtain a high-voltage discharge, special devices are used - ballast chokes controlled by a starter.
It works like this: a choke and a capacitor are placed inside the lamp fittings, which form an oscillatory circuit. A neon starter lamp with a small capacitor is installed in series with this circuit. When the current passes through the neon lamp, an electrical breakdown occurs in it, the resistance of the lamp drops to almost zero, but it almost immediately begins to discharge through the capacitor. Thus, the starter opens and closes chaotically and chaotic vibrations occur in the throttle.
Due to the EMF of self-induction, these oscillations can have an amplitude of up to 1000 Volts, and they serve as a source of high-voltage pulses that light the lamp.

This design has been used in everyday life for many years and has a number of disadvantages - indefinite turn-on time, wear of the lamp filaments and a huge level of radio interference.

As practice shows, in starter devices (a simplified diagram of one of them is shown in Fig. 1), sections of the filaments to which the mains voltage is supplied are exposed to the greatest heating. The thread often burns out here.

More promising - without starter ignition devices, where the filaments are not used for their intended purpose, but play the role of electrodes of a gas-discharge lamp - they are supplied with the voltage necessary to ignite the gas in the lamp.

Here, for example, is a device designed to power a lamp with a power of up to 40 W (Fig. 2). It works like this. The mains voltage is fed through the choke L1 to the bridge rectifier VD3. In one of the half periods mains voltage capacitor C2 is charged through the Zener diode VD1, and the capacitor C3 through the Zener diode VD2. During the next half-period, the mains voltage is added to the voltage across these capacitors, as a result of which the EL1 lamp lights up. After that, these capacitors are quickly discharged through the zener diodes and bridge diodes and subsequently do not affect the operation of the device, since they are not able to charge - after all, the peak voltage of the network is less than the total stabilization voltage of the zener diodes and the voltage drop across the lamp.

Resistor R1 removes the residual voltage on the lamp electrodes after switching off the device, which is necessary for safe lamp replacement. Capacitor C1 compensates for reactive power.

In this and subsequent devices, pairs of connector contacts of each filament can be connected together and connected to "their" circuit - then even a lamp with burned-out filaments will work in the lamp.

A diagram of another version of the device, designed to power a fluorescent lamp with a power of more than 40 W, is shown in Fig. 3. Here the bridge rectifier is made on diodes VD1-VD4. A "starting" capacitors C2, C3 are charged through thermistors R1, R2 with a positive temperature coefficient of resistance. Moreover, in one half-cycle, the capacitor C2 is charged (through the thermistor R1 and the diode VD3), and in the other - C3 (through the thermistor R2 and the diode VD4). Thermistors limit the charging current of the capacitors. Since the capacitors are in series, the voltage across the EL1 lamp is sufficient to ignite it.

If the thermistors are in thermal contact with the bridge diodes, their resistance will increase when the diodes are heated, which will lower the charging current.

The choke, which serves as a ballast resistance, is not necessary in the considered power devices and can be replaced by an incandescent lamp, as shown in Fig. 4. When the device is connected to the network, the EL1 lamp and thermistor R1 are warmed up. The alternating voltage at the input of the diode bridge VD3 increases. Capacitors C1 and C2 are charged through resistors R2, R3. When the total voltage across them reaches the ignition voltage of the EL2 lamp, a rapid discharge of the capacitors will occur - this is facilitated by the diodes VD1, VD2.

By complementing a conventional tungsten lamp with this fluorescent lamp fixture, general or local lighting can be improved. For a 20W EL2 lamp EL1 should be 75 or 100W, if EL2 is 80W, EL1 should be 200 or 250W. In the latter version, it is permissible to remove from the device the charging-discharge circuits from the resistors R2, R3 and diodes VD1, VD2.

A somewhat better option for powering a powerful fluorescent lamp is to use a device with a quadrupled rectified voltage, the diagram of which is shown in Fig. 5. Some improvement of the device, which increases the reliability of its operation, can be considered the addition of a thermistor connected in parallel to the input of the diode bridge (between points 1, 2 of node U1). It will provide a smoother increase in voltage on the parts of the rectifier-multiplier, as well as damping of the oscillatory process in a system containing reactive elements (choke and capacitors), which means a decrease in noise penetrating into the network.

In the considered devices, diode bridges KTs405A or KTs402A are used, as well as rectifier diodes KD243G-KD243ZH or others, designed for a current up to 1 A and a reverse voltage of 400 V. Each zener diode can be replaced with several series-connected with a lower stabilization voltage. It is advisable to use a non-polar type MBGCH capacitor bypassing the network, the remaining capacitors are MBM, K42U-2, K73-16. It is recommended to shunt capacitors with 1 MΩ resistors with a power of 0.5 W. The choke must correspond to the power of the fluorescent lamp used (1UBI20 - for a 20 W lamp, 1UBI40 - 40 W, 1UBI80-80W). Instead of one 40 W lamp, it is permissible to turn on two 20 W lamps in series.

Some parts of the assembly are mounted on a board made of one-sided foil-clad fiberglass, on which pads are left for soldering the leads of parts and connecting tabs for connecting the assembly to the lamp circuits. After installing the assembly in a housing of suitable dimensions, it is poured with epoxy compound.

Fluorescent lamps are connected in accordance with a slightly more complex scheme compared to their closest "relatives" - incandescent lamps. To ignite fluorescent-type lamps, starting devices must be included in the circuit, the quality of which directly affects the service life of the lamps.

To understand the features of the circuits, you must first study the device and mechanism of action of such devices.

Each of these devices is a sealed flask filled with a special mixture of gases. At the same time, the mixture is designed in such a way that much less energy was spent on the ionization of gases compared to ordinary incandescent lamps, which makes it possible to noticeably on lighting.

In order for a fluorescent lamp to constantly give light, a glow discharge must be maintained in it. To ensure this, the required voltage is supplied to the lamp electrodes. The main problem is that a discharge can appear only when a voltage is applied that is significantly higher than the operating voltage. However, lamp manufacturers have successfully solved this problem as well.

Electrodes are installed on both sides of the fluorescent lamp. They take on the voltage, thanks to which the discharge is maintained. Each electrode has two contacts. A current source is connected to them, due to which the space surrounding the electrodes is heated.

Thus, the fluorescent lamp ignites after warming up its electrodes. To do this, they are exposed to a high-voltage pulse, and only then the operating voltage comes into play, the value of which must be sufficient to maintain the discharge.

Luminous flux, lm	LED lamp, W	Contact fluorescent lamp, W	Incandescent lamp, W
50	1	4	20
100		5	25
100-200		6/7	30/35
300	4	8/9	40
400		10	50
500	6	11	60
600	7/8	14	65

Under the influence of the discharge, the gas in the flask begins to emit ultraviolet light, which is imperceptible to the human eye. For the light to become visible to man, the inner surface of the flask is covered with a phosphor. This substance provides a shift in the frequency range of light into the visible spectrum. By changing the composition of the phosphor, the gamut of color temperatures also changes, which ensures a wide range of fluorescent lamps.

Fluorescent lamps, unlike simple incandescent lamps, cannot simply be plugged into the electrical network. For the appearance of an arc, as noted, the electrodes must warm up and a pulse voltage appears. These conditions are provided with the help of special ballasts. The most widespread are ballasts of electromagnetic and

Prices for fluorescent lamps

Classic connection via electromagnetic ballast

Features of the scheme

In accordance with this diagram, a choke is included in the circuit. A starter is also included in the circuit.

Starter for fluorescent lamps - Philips Ecoclick StartersS10 220-240V 4-65W

The latter is a low-power neon light source. The device is equipped with bimetallic contacts and is powered from the mains with variable current values. The choke, starter contacts and electrode filaments are connected in series.

Instead of a starter, an ordinary button from an electric call can be included in the circuit. In this case, the voltage will be applied by holding the bell button down. The button must be released after lighting the lamp.

The procedure for the scheme with an electromagnetic type ballast is as follows:

• after being connected to the network, the choke begins to accumulate electromagnetic energy;
• electricity is supplied through the starter contacts;
• the current rushes along the tungsten filaments of heating the electrodes;
• electrodes and starter are hot;
• the starter contacts open;
• the energy accumulated by the choke is released;
• the voltage across the electrodes changes;
• a fluorescent lamp gives light.

In order to increase the efficiency and reduce the noise arising during the switching on of the lamp, the circuit is equipped with two capacitors. One of them (the smaller one) is located inside the starter. Its main function is to extinguish sparks and improve the neon pulse.

Among the key advantages of a circuit with an electromagnetic type ballast are:

• time-tested reliability;
• simplicity;
• affordable cost.
• As practice shows, there are more disadvantages than advantages. Among them it is necessary to highlight:
• the impressive weight of the lighting fixture;
• long time of switching on the lamp (on average up to 3 seconds);
• low system efficiency when operating in the cold;
• relatively high energy consumption;
• noisy throttle operation;
• flicker that negatively affects vision.

Connection procedure

The connection of the lamp according to the considered scheme is performed with the use of starters. Next, we will consider an example of installing one lamp with the inclusion of an S10 starter in the circuit. This state-of-the-art device has a non-flammable housing and high quality construction, making it the best in its niche.

The main tasks of the starter are reduced to:

• ensuring that the lamp is turned on;
• breakdown of the gas gap. For this, the circuit is broken after a rather long heating of the lamp electrodes, which leads to the release of a powerful pulse and direct breakdown.

The choke is used to perform the following tasks:

• limiting the amount of current at the moment of closing the electrodes;
• generating a voltage sufficient for gas breakdown;
• maintaining the discharge burning at a constant stable level.

In this example, a 40 W lamp is connected. In this case, the choke must have the same power. The power of the starter used is 4-65 W.

We connect in accordance with the presented diagram. To do this, do the following.

First step

In parallel, we connect the starter to the pin side contacts at the output of the fluorescent lamp. These contacts are the leads of the filament of the sealed bulb.

Second step

We connect to the remaining free contacts.

Third step

We connect the capacitor to the power contacts, again, in parallel. Thanks to the capacitor, reactive power will be compensated and noise in the network will be reduced.

Connection via modern electronic ballast

Features of the scheme

Modern connection option. An electronic ballast is included in the circuit - this economical and improved device provides a much longer service life of fluorescent lamps compared to the above option.

In circuits with electronic ballast, fluorescent lamps operate at increased voltage (up to 133 kHz). Thanks to this, the light turns out to be even, without flicker.

Modern microcircuits make it possible to assemble specialized launchers with low power consumption and compact dimensions. This makes it possible to place the ballast directly into the lamp base, which makes it possible to produce small-sized lighting fixtures that screw into a common holder, standard for incandescent lamps.

At the same time, the microcircuits not only provide the lamps with power, but also smoothly heat the electrodes, increasing their efficiency and increasing their service life. It is these fluorescent lamps that can be used in conjunction with - devices designed for smooth regulation of the brightness of light bulbs. You cannot connect a dimmer to fluorescent lamps with electromagnetic ballasts.

By design, electronic ballast is a voltage converter. A miniature inverter converts DC to HF and AC. It is he who enters the electrode heaters. With increasing frequency, the intensity of heating the electrodes decreases.

The switching on of the converter is organized in such a way that at first the current frequency is at a high level. The fluorescent lamp, in this case, is included in the circuit, the resonant frequency of which is much lower than the initial frequency of the converter.

Further, the frequency begins to gradually decrease, and the voltage across the lamp and the oscillatory circuit increases, due to which the circuit approaches resonance. The heating intensity of the electrodes also increases. At some point, conditions are created that are sufficient to create a gas discharge, as a result of which the lamp begins to give light. The lighting device closes the circuit, the operating mode of which is changed at the same time.

When using electronic ballasts, the lamp connection diagrams are designed in such a way that the control device has the opportunity to adapt to the characteristics of the light bulb. For example, after a certain period of use, fluorescent lamps require a higher voltage to generate an initial discharge. Ballast will be able to accommodate such changes and provide the required quality of lighting.

Thus, among the many advantages of modern electronic ballasts, the following points should be highlighted:

• high efficiency of operation;
• gentle heating of the lighting device electrodes;
• smooth turning on of the light bulb;
• no flicker;
• the ability to use in low temperatures;
• self-adaptation to the characteristics of the luminaire;
• high reliability;
• light weight and compact size;
• increase in the service life of lighting devices.

There are only 2 disadvantages:

• complicated connection diagram;
• higher requirements for correct installation and quality of used components.

Prices for electronic ballasts for fluorescent lamps

Electronic ballast for fluorescent lamps

Connection procedure

All necessary connectors and wires usually come with an electronic ballast. You can familiarize yourself with the connection diagram in the presented image. Also, suitable diagrams are given in the instructions for ballasts and directly lighting fixtures.

In such a scheme, the lamp is included in 3 main stages, namely:

• the electrodes are warmed up, due to which a more gentle and smooth start is provided and the resource of the device is preserved;
• there is a creation of a powerful impulse required for ignition;
• the operating voltage is stabilized, after which the voltage is applied to the lamp.

Modern lamp connection schemes eliminate the need for a starter. This eliminates the risk of ballast burnout if starting without a lamp installed.

Special attention should be paid to the connection diagram of two fluorescent lamps at once to one ballast. The devices are connected in series. To complete the work, you need to prepare:

• induction choke;
• starters in the amount of two pieces;
• directly fluorescent lamps.

Connection sequence

First step. A starter is connected to each light bulb. The connection is parallel. In this example, the starter is connected to the pin output from both ends of the lighting device.

Step two. Free contacts are connected to the mains. In this case, the connection is made in series by means of a choke.

Step three. Capacitors are connected in parallel to the contacts of the lighting device. They will reduce the severity of interference in the mains and compensate for the reactive power that occurs.

An important point! In ordinary household switches, especially for budget models, contacts can stick under the influence of increased starting currents. In view of this, for use in conjunction with fluorescent lighting devices, it is recommended to use only high-quality specially designed for this.

You have familiarized yourself with the features of different schemes for connecting fluorescent lamps and now you can independently cope with the installation and replacement of such lighting devices.

Happy work!

Video - Connection diagram of fluorescent lamps