When considered as an element in
an electrical circuit, a germicidal lamp is unique in that it is
not a "passive" element such as a resistor, inductor or
capacitor; rather it is an "active" element that generates
harmonic and transient voltages and currents. In addition, the
lamp exhibits a seemingly strange characteristic, a negative AC
resistance, i.e., its voltage decreases with increasing current.
Gas discharge devices therefore are inherently unstable; once
lit, the current would increase without limit unless another
circuit element is used to restore and maintain stable
operation- this element is commonly called a "ballast".
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In fact, it is the interaction of lamp and ballast that is the
true determinant of system performance. In
make sure the electronic ballast you
specify delivers all of the advantages of electronic HF
operation:
- High Efficiency
- Lighter weight and smaller size
- High power factor
- Insensitivity to line voltage
variation
- Operation on multiple supply voltages
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