Acceleration Scenarios of Metal Halide Lamps

Based on the investigation results on the starting characteristics of metal halide lamps, the time for entering the steady state is defined in a more reasonable manner. From the effects of the applied current on the generated luminance, several starting scenarios are attempted to accelerate the starting transient. Experimental evidence shows that the starting time can be effectively shortened by increasing the lamp current during the glow-to-arc transition and warm-up stage. A short interval of over-power operation during the warm-up stage enables the lamp to further enhance the production of luminance quickly and hence greatly reduce the starting transient period.