Abstract: A circuit is disclosed for energizing electrical devices such as fluorescent lamps and other gas discharge luminescent devices. The circuit provides energizing signals for gaseous discharge tubes at a voltage sufficient to initiate ionization of the gases therein. The signals are characterized by frequencies in the range of from about 60 hertz to 30 megahertz. After ignition the circuit automatically reduces the voltages and currents of the devices to a level sufficient to maintain gas ionization, and save energy. The circuit also reduces shock hazard. A preferred wave shaping in the energizing circuit is disclosed which creates purer square and sine waves for reducing radio frequency interference and electromagnetic interference, and a "soft-on" circuit is disclosed which greatly reduces the voltages applied to the devices thereby increasing the life of the devices. An automatic and a manual dimming section are also disclosed which dim the light output for the devices.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed which may be utilized as an energizing circuit for the ignition of fluorescent lamps and other gas discharge luminescent devices. The circuit directs energizing signals to gaseous discharge tubes at a voltage sufficient to intitiate ionization of the gases therein. The signals are characterized by having a predetermined frequency in the range from about 20 kilohertz to 10 megahertz. Thereafter, the circuit lowers the voltage and current of the signal delivered to the tubes to a level sufficient to maintain gas ionization. Significant power savings are realized over conventional ballast circuits with the apparatus of the present invention.