A fluorescent system that does not use a "starter." (See "Preheat.") Except for "slimline" lamps, all modern fixtures using 40-watt and higher lamps are equipped with rapid-start ballasts. The most popular fluorescent lamp/ballast combination used today.
An obsolete fluorescent lamp/ballast combination, requiring RS argon filled lamps. The ballast preheats lamp cathodes to start the lamp.
A fluorescent system, which does not require starters and usually requires 1 to 2 seconds to start. Current flows continuously through the electrodes keeping them hot and electron emissive.
A lamp starting method in which lamp filaments are heated while open circuit voltage (OCV) is applied to facilitate lamp ignition.
A popular fluorescent lamp/ballast combination. This ballast quickly and efficiently preheats lamp cathodes to start the lamp. Typically uses a “bi-pin†base. Contrast this to “Instant Start†lamp/ballast systems.
The most popular fluorescent lamp/ballast combination used today. This ballast is designed to quickly and efficiently preheat lamp cathodes to start the lamp. Uses a "bi pin" base.
Rapid start ballasts apply a low filament voltage to preheat the cathodes. Simultaneously, a starting voltage is also applied to strike the arc. When the cathodes are hot enough, the lamp will strike. Rapid start ballasts appear to have a slight turn on delay compared to instant start. They will typically not be able to start lamps reliably under 50'F.
A circuit designed to start lamps by continually heating or preheating the electrodes. This circuit is a modern version of the trigger start system and requires lamps designed for this circuit. In the rapid start two-lamp circuit, one end of each lamp is connected to a separate starting winding. The other end of each lamp is connected to a common winding.
A fluorescent system that does not need starters and takes 1 to 3 seconds to emit light. The ballast preheats the electrodes within the fluorescent lamp and then initiates the arc without a starter and the application of high voltage.