Metal Halide Ballasts

MH ballasts

Lighting has come a long way from the days of Thomas Edison. Technological breakthroughs transformed the colors and shades we see the world in. Now lighting comes in many forms. One of those most popular forms is a metal halide lamp, which use metal halide transformers for control and reliability. They deliver superior bright lighting even from a far distance at night. The versatility and different types of metal halide light ballasts make them ideal for large-scale lighting projects.

Uses for metal halide ballasts

A metal halide ballast transformer produces high-intensity discharges. Their popularity grew through large-scale sporting events and stadiums, where compact lamps required large-scale them to deliver light across long distances and in nighttime situations. Their efficiency delivers strong lighting relative to how much space they use. Different forms of metal halide ballasts carry varying levels of efficiency, size and brightness. They also has expanded in popularity because of their success for indoor growing of large-scale plant projects. They provide a wide array of lighting levels and temperatures, adjustable to the lighting needs of indoor plants.

Different types of metal halide ballasts

Metal halide ballasts come in a variety of forms. The most popular and common is the electronic ballast. They provide greater efficiency and an easy installation process from start to finish. Their efficiency is measured by the amount of electricity used for the light they output. However, some estimates report that electronic ballasts, though energy efficient, save only a minuscule amount of light over other types.

Electronic MH transformers deliver the ability to function with all types of bulbs. Additionally, they don't run as hot as other bulbs, decreasing the risk of injury or overheating. However, they possess one main drawback. Many consider them less reliable, shorter lasting and more prone to problems. A popular use of electronic ballasts is aquariums where large amounts of light are needed to filter through levels of water. A primary drawback of electronic ballasts is the cost. They cost a significant percentage more than magnetic ballasts. However, many consumers consider them worth it because of efficiency, dimming adjustments and quality of light.

Then there are magnetic ballasts. These use magnets to regulate the timing and effectiveness of lamps. Magnetic ballasts fire specific bulbs, such as pulse or probe. Their features are the exact opposite of electronic type. They function at considerably hotter temperatures, a lesser efficiency and are considerably more difficult to hook up. Magnetic ballasts produce less light for the how much electricity they consume. Interestingly enough, they also provide years of dependable lighting, much more so than their electronic counter-part.

Probe-start metal halide ballasts, part of the magnetic family, are ideal for average wattage metal halide lamps. The forms of probe start include:

• High-reactance auto-transformer: a bulkier, large weight and low efficiency option, they work with a variety of connectors and uses.
• Constant-wattage auto-transformer: similar to high-reactive auto-transformer, they are bulkier, less efficient and also cost more. However they are the standard for 175 watt or higher metal halide lamps.
• Constant-wattage isolated transformer: less efficient their auto-transformer counterparts
• Regulated lag: the ultimate in power monitoring and control. The controls promote longevity, but at expense of size and energy efficiency

The constant-wattage MH auto-transformer is the world's foremost ballast for the most popular form of the magnetic family. The magnetic coils balance light to avoid flicker and troublesome malfunctions that could leave an event in the dark. Picking the right light depends on the situation. Ultimately, the varying levels of dependability, efficiency, brightness, cost and controls must be taken into effect. Only when all are weighed does the brightest idea reveal itself.