Abstract: In an optimum frequency detection sequence of a discharge lamp, the frequency control circuit performs a sweep operation in which, while the frequency control circuit monitors a synchronization degree signal, a frequency control signal is changed, so that frequency is changed, starting from either an upper or lower limit frequency of a periodic driving circuit, in a range that does not exceed the other frequency, wherein after completion of the sweep operation, the frequency control circuit determines a value of the frequency control signal corresponding to a resonance frequency of the resonant circuit, and inputs the value into a frequency driving circuit, wherein at least in a period of the sweep operation, an inverter receives power supply from a sweep time power supply circuit for supplying electric power with constant supply capability, which is limited to a range in which breakdown does not occur in the discharge lamp.

Abstract: A simple and less expensive high voltage pulse generating circuit including a low voltage direct current voltage source having one output terminal connected to another output terminal via a series circuit of a first switch with a low withstand voltage, an inductance storing inductive energy and a second switch with a high withstand voltage, and a branch circuit including a free-wheel diode connected between the other output terminal of the direct current voltage source and a common connection point between the first switch and the inductance. After storing inductive energy in the inductance by turning “on” the first and second switches, these first and second switches are turn “off” to commutate the energy stored in the inductance into a capacitive load connected across the second switch to charge the load abruptly and generate a high voltage pulse having a very narrow width without using a complicated and expensive magnetic compression circuit.

Abstract: A field emission device (10) has an anode (18) that is used to attract electrons emitter by an emitter (13). An inductor (19) is coupled in series between the anode (18) and a voltage source (21) in order to prevent arcing between the anode (18) and the emitter (13) of the field emission device (10).

Abstract: This invention relates to an unnecessary electromagnetic wave shielding structure of a magnetron for a microwave oven, comprising an electric wave absorbent filament ceramic disposed adjacent the lower end of a power input section to prevent unnecessary electromagnetic waves produced in an active space from being leaked from the input section through a center lead extending downwardly from an upper end shield of the active space and a side lead disposed adjacent the center lead; first and second ferrite cores having different frequency characteristics and inserted concentrically over the filament ceramics at the respective upper and lower sides of the outer periphery thereof to cooperate with the ceramics to shield the unnecessary electromagnetic waves; and an annular insulator placed between the second ferrite core and filament terminals to insulate the ferrite core from the terminals.