| Electronic vs. Magnetic Ballasts Unlike 120V halogen lamps, Ceramic Metal Halide lamps require a ballast to start and operate. While this control can be accomplished in a rudimentary manner with magnetic ballasts, a properly designed electronic ballast is necessary to control color and maximize lamp life and energy efficiency. An electronic ballast provides virtually constant power, regardless of commonly occurring line voltage fluctuations and lamp voltage variations. This tightly regulated control results in lamp-to-lamp color consistency with high color rendering over an extended service life. Compared to magnetic ballasts, electronic ballasts also operate 10-17% more efficiently, deliver faster hot restrike and warm-up times, and incorporate an end-of-lamp life shut-down circuit to prevent nuisance cycling and ballast damage. |