Abstract: A fluorescent lamp driver circuit has regulator (SR); primary circuit of transformer (TF); electronic switches (TR2A and TR2B) and current sensing device (Rsense) connected successively in series across power supply (PSF). Controller (CTRL) is connected to create a feed back loop. The secondary circuit of transformer (TF) is coupled to fluorescent lamps (U10 and U11) via ballast capacitors (C1 and C2). Diode (D1) creates unidirectional current flow, so current sensing device (Rsense) indicates only energy input to lamps (U10 and U11). Capacitors (C1 and C2) are placed physically very close to their respective lamps, enabling good matching of currents through lamps (U10 and U11). Pulse width modulator (PM) with predetermined input is connected to regulator (SR) and, via delay circuit (TD) to controller (CTRL), thus permitting a larger dimming ratio, and further control of input power.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 25, 2001
Date of Patent:
April 12, 2005
Assignee:
Raymarine Limited
Inventors:
Richard James Jales, Barnaby Norman Wilmott