The electronic ballast is primarily used as a passive inductor that does not pass higher frequency alternating current (AC) into the circuit while passing much lower frequency and direct current signals. They are most widely distributed in lighting for fluorescent, sodium and metal-halide lamps.
Electronic ballast ensures stable starting current and trouble-free operation of fluorescent lamps, thereby protecting against electric shocks, overvoltage and thus increasing the service life of the fluorescent lamp. The high-frequency ballast is small, silent, yet powerful and useful.
In addition to powering different types of lighting, ballasts can also act as a transformer, stabilizer or protection, absorbing different types of voltage peaks and dips and preventing conditions that can damage the lighting fixture. Unlike chokes, the electronic ballast is used without a starter, which is a major advantage, as it keeps a lower operating temperature and heats up as much compared to a choke.