Circuit arrangement for operating a low-pressure discharge lamp, typically a fluorescent lamp, from a low-voltage source

摘要

To operate a low-pressure discharge lamp, typically a fluorescent lamp, from a low voltage source of, for example, between 5 and 24 V, two diodes (D1, D2) polarized to provide for current passage towards the lamp are connected between the output of a blocking oscillator and the lamp (L) . At least one diode (D2) provides for preheating the lamp electrode. The other diode (D1) prevents immediate starting of the lamp; it is integrated in the circuit between the secondary winding (N2) of the blocking oscillator transformer (TR) and one lamp electrode (E1). The first diode (D2) is connected between the primary winding (N1) and the other terminal of the secondary winding (N2), and also to the other lamp electrode (E2). An additional capacitor (C4) connected, effectively, across the lamp (L) improves the starting of the lamp. The circuit is readily adaptable for association with a recharging circuit (FIG. 3) for recharging a rechargeable battery to supply the lamp.