Investigation of a novel high-power-factor electronic ballast based on the input current shaper

Abstract

This paper investigates the characteristics and features of a novel high input power factor electronic ballast based on the input current shaper (ICS) arrangement. The ICS is implemented between main rectifier and bulk capacitor in order to increase the conduction angle of the main rectifier diodes up to a minimum value to obtain low current harmonics injected to the mains. In this paper, the ICS is implemented using a flyback converter operating in discontinuous conduction mode, and the ballast features both good efficiency and dimming capability. Experimental results from a 40 W fluorescent lamp prototype are presented to evaluate the proposed solution.