Abstract: A system for providing a controllable current to a high intensity discharge lamp is provided. The system includes a current controller that is configured to receive input power and to provide an output current waveform to the high intensity discharge lamp. This current causes a discharge of light from the lamp. The output current waveform includes an absolute value amplitude in each half cycle that is generally constant during a first portion and that which increases non-linearly from the generally constant amplitude to a peak amplitude during a second portion.

Abstract: An electrically conducting cermet comprises at least one transition metal element dispersed in a matrix of at least one refractory oxide selected from the group consisting of yttria, alumina, garnet, magnesium aluminum oxide, and combinations; wherein an amount of the at least one transition metal element is less than 15 volume percent of the total volume of the cermet. A device comprises the aforementioned electrically conducting cermet.