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Abstract

A gas discharge lamp power ballast or power supply having simplified power factor correction, simplified automatic short circuit/overload protection and output open circuit voltage regulation. The gas discharge power ballast or power supply includes self-oscillating converter circuitry to which simplified power factor correction is provided via simple passive circuitry that includes a split winding from the power transformer in conjunction with an input storage capacitor and a current limiting resistor. The short circuit/overload protection is implemented, without elaborate current sensing circuitry, by utilizing the drive winding of the power transformer. In a shorted or overloaded state, a capacitor interacting with oscillator circuitry, controls oscillator cycling to reduce current flow and protect the circuitry against the overload at the output. Output open circuit voltage regulation and power regulation are also implemented in a simplified manner without the need for significant additional circuitry. Alternative circuitry for simplified constant current limiting is implemented to further increase the efficiency of the power supply or power ballast. Power factor correction of 95% or more is achieved using minimal components, without requiring a bulky input choke. Simplified short circuit/overload protection, output open circuit voltage regulation and power regulation are provided without significant additional cost. Excellent power regulation is provided against changes in input and output voltages.

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First Claim