Abstract: An electronic ballast circuit includes a programmable processor. The processor is programmed to vary operating parameters of the ballast circuit to accommodate operation of different types and/or sizes of lamps. Ballast circuit operating parameters that can be varied by the programmable processor include component parameters, such as inductance and resistance, and the frequency at which the ballast circuit is oscillated. The processor can be programmed to produce an oscillating processor signal which is used to produce a corresponding oscillating power signal to ignite and/or sustain ignition of the lamp. A voltage monitor and a current monitor are employed to monitor the operating condition of the lamp. The monitor outputs are used by the processor to optimize circuit operation.

Abstract: An electronic ballast circuit includes a programmable processor. The processor is programmed to vary operating parameters of the ballast circuit to accommodate operation of different types and/or sizes of lamps. Ballast circuit operating parameters that can be varied by the programmable processor include component parameters, such as inductance and resistance, and the frequency at which the ballast circuit is oscillated. The processor can be programmed to produce an oscillating processor signal which is used to produce a corresponding oscillating power signal to ignite and/or sustain ignition of the lamp. A voltage monitor and a current monitor are employed to monitor the operating condition of the lamp. The monitor outputs are used by the processor to optimize circuit operation.

Abstract: An electronic ballast operates a gaseous discharge lamp. The electronic ballast includes a filter circuit for removing noise from an electrical power signal. The power factor of the filtered power signal is adjusted by a power factor correction circuit. The power factor correction circuit includes a programmable inductor circuit having a plurality of selectable inductance values for varying the amount of power factor adjustment to accommodate operation of different lamp types and/or different lamp wattages. A power supply circuit converts electrical power received from the filtered power signal to provide low level power for operating the electronic ballast. An output circuit receives the corrected power signal produced by the power factor correction circuit and produces an electrical signal to ignite and operate the discharge lamp.