Abstract: The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle. Said lighting device comprises a gas discharge lamp (1; 96) for emitting light, a starting device for providing a starting voltage for starting the gas discharge lamp (1; 96) and a control device for providing an input voltage for the starting device and an operating voltage for operation of the gas discharge lamp (1; 96). The control device is an integral part of the starting device. In order to come to grips with the problems associated with space and temperature with such lighting devices, the invention proposes that the combined starting and control device (5; 80) has a plug element (6) for connecting a vehicle power supply system voltage (7), the plug element (6) being in the form of a printed circuit board plug, which is formed by conductor tracks (21; 23) guided at an edge of a printed circuit board (20) of the starting and control device (5; 80).

Abstract: The resonant circuit has at least one resonant body of a semiconductor material anchored on the surface of a semiconductor substrate, at least one first electrode being arranged at said semiconductor material, and at least one second electrode. The first and second electrode are arranged lying opposite one another. When an AC-superimposed DC voltage is applied between the first and the second electrode, the resonant body is excited to mechanical oscillation by the DC voltage. In particular, the resonant circuit can be monoically integrated in electronic circuits.

Abstract: An orientation independent ignitron (OII) has an anode, a cathode with a plurality of spaced grooves facing the anode, and a cooling mechanism which causes liquid metal vapor to condense as a film which is retained on the grooved cathode surface by surface tension and forms reservoirs within the grooves. The cathode and anode are preferably cylindrical and coaxial, with the inner surface of the cathode having parallel annular grooves facing the outer anode surface. Igniters are preferably introduced into convex areas between adjacent grooves along radial lines, with individual igniters providing ignition for a pair of adjacent grooves. The igniters can be operated simultaneously or in sequence, depending upon the desired repetition rate and current capacity. A liquid metal film is initially formed by placing the OII on its side, introducing liquid metal into the lower ends of the grooves, and causing arcing between the anode and liquid metal to flow the liquid metal and wet the adjacent groove surface.

Abstract: A triggered spark gap discharger having a small auxiliary gap in the trigger pulse path. The auxiliary gap provides ultraviolet radiation to liberate electrons at the trigger probe and allow prompt firing of the trigger gap and primary gap, particularly in aged discharger units.

Abstract: A stabilized cathode assembly for an arc light source is disclosed wherein an unattached end of a length of electrically conducting braid serving as a cathode is held in close proximity to the anode of the source to establish an arc path between the braid end and the anode. Support means are disclosed which function to advance and withdraw the braid to initiate the arc. Application of the assembly in a spectrometer sample excitation device is further disclosed.

Abstract: An electrodeless lamp is excited by high frequency power in a termination fixture having an inner and an outer conductor, the lamp being located in the high field region at the end of the conductors. A source of ultraviolet radiation is located near the lamp and is activated momentarily when the lamp is to be excited. The radiation assists in initiating breakdown and excitation of the fill material in the lamp.