Metal lamp additives increase unlit resistance(striking
voltage) beyond the level a standard ballast can efficiently
produce. A small step-up coil and high-voltage pulse generator
are combined with control circuitry to form the ignitor. The
ignitor can be located remotely, with its output connected
between the lamp and capacitor set. Its input power comes
directly from the 220 V taps on the ballast transformer, so
as soon as the ballast is energized, the ignitor automatically
activates. The ignitor monitors the lamp and disconnects itself
as soon as the lamp starts – as rapidly as 1/240 of
a second – maximizing lamp life and product safety.
Should the lamp not strike, the ignitor will disconnect in
two seconds, ready to try again.
We do not recommend more than three repeated attempts to
strike a bad lamp because of the stress that develops. It
is better to wait five minutes before restarting, particularly
if the lamp is still warm from operation. Additive lamps have
a longer cooling cycle than mercury lamps. It also is important
not to take an electrical measurement from the lamp when the
ignitor is in operation. The high-voltage pulses will overload
(destroy) most meters and measuring devices and present a
safety hazard.
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