Abstract: A lamp driver circuit for a discharge lamp in which a high frequency is used to initiate a discharge and a lower frequency is used to sustain the discharge. A tuned circuit boosts the voltage at the starting frequency. In addition, a transformer is connected to the tuned circuit to provide a further boost to the starting voltage. The transformer core may be made of a different material from that of the inductor of the tuned circuit, and is preferably selected to saturate during starting, to enhance the voltage spikes available for starting the lamp.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 18, 1999
Date of Patent:
September 26, 2000
Assignee:
Micro Tech Limited
Inventors:
Richard Anthony Lakin, Isaac David Gurwicz