Abstract: A universal two-lead igniter for high intensity discharge lamps includes a first parallel RC network connected in series circuit with a second network between the two terminals of the igniter. The second network may include a second parallel RC network coupled to the first RC network via a voltage-responsive bidirectional switching device, such as a Sidac. Alternatively, the second network may include a second capacitor and an inductor connected in series with the Sidac device, The igniter is adapted to be connected in parallel with the lamp and generates, by means of a resonant type of operation of the first and second networks, a high frequency, high voltage pulsatory open circuit voltage that provides more reliable ignition of a HID lamp.

Abstract: A two-lead starter circuit for a gaseous discharge lamp is composed of only four components, namely a capacitor, a bilateral voltage-sensitive switch, a pulse transformer and a resistor. These components are connected in a series-parallel circuit arrangement which is both more economical and more reliable than prior-art two-lead starter circuits.