How does a magnetic ballast work?
How does a magnetic ballast work?
The magnetic ballast uses a magnetic transformer of copper windings around a steel core to convert the input line voltage and current to the voltage and current required to start and operate the fluorescent lamps. Capacitors are added to assist lamp starting and power factor correction.
What’s inside a magnetic ballast?
A magnetic ballast (also called a choke) contains a coil of copper wire. The magnetic field produced by the wire traps most of the current so only the right amount gets through to the fluorescent light. That amount can fluctuate depending on the thickness and length of the copper wire.
Can I replace magnetic ballast with electronic ballast?
Fortunately, compatibility isn’t really an issue, as most electronic ballasts have been designed to replace existing magnetic ballasts. A preferable electronic ballast is the T8 model. This option has several advantages over the T10 and T12, including improved lighting efficiency.
How do you test a magnetic ballast?
Disconnect primary supply to ballast and check all secondary leads for grounds. A short will give a low reading on the low resistance (OHMS) scale of the multimeter or the light will light on a simple continuity tester. This can be accomplished at the socket contacts or by probe puncturing the ballast leads.
What is the difference between electronic and magnetic ballast?
Magnetic ballasts work at a frequency of around 60 Hz, whereas electronic ballasts work at an increased frequency of around 20,000 Hz. This is why fluorescent lamps using electronic ballasts do not flicker or emit any buzzing sounds. Electronic ballasts are also quite smaller in size and weight.
Does a magnetic ballast need a starter?
No Starters Required Magnetic ballasts required a starter to get the lamp lit, electronic ballasts do not require a starter.
How do you test a magnetic ballast with a multimeter?
To measure it, set your digital multimeter to around a thousand ohms resistance setting. Connect the black leads to the white ground wire on your ballast. Afterward, test every other wire with the red lead. When you do this test, a good ballast will return an “open-loop” or max resistance.