Ballasts are electrical devices that condition the line voltage (amplitude, amperage and waveform) to operate fluorescent and HID lamps. Basically they serve two functions: to provide the starting kick, and to limit the current to the proper value for a particular lamp.
Fluorescent lamps are high-efficiency lamps that use electrical discharge through low-pressure mercury vapor to produce ultraviolet (UV) energy, which is then transformed into visible light.
Halogen lamps are high pressure incandescent lamps containing halogen gases such as iodine or bromine, which allow the filaments to be operated at higher temperatures and higher efficacies.
High intensity discharge lamps (HID) contain compact arc tubes, which enclose various gases and metal salts, operating at relatively high pressures and temperatures. HID lamps are often used as UV light sources.
Lamps are light sources that emit incoherent light for illumination. There are many different types of products. Examples include fluorescent lamps, halogen lamps, heat lamps, incandescent lamps, LED lamps, projection lamps, spectral lamps, and stage lamps. Specialized and proprietary lamps are also available.
Lighting fixtures and lamp sockets produce artificial light in industrial areas or workspaces, and mechanically hold and electrically connect lamp bulbs to wiring.
Projection lamps use a built-in reflector to concentrate light in a particular direction. They are used in applications such as slide projection, microfilm, overhead projection, movies, medical / scientific instruments, airport runways, and others.
Stage lamps are used for stage, studio, or television lighting. They are often made of quartz instead of glass to provide higher pressure ratings, higher melting temperatures, and more energy-efficient designs.
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