STMicroelectronics AN2590 Application Note: 20 W Dimmable CFL Ballast Solution

This document describes a 20W dimmable CFL ballast solution that can completely replace incandescent lamps in formal dimming systems. The dimmer controlled range is 20% - 100% of full light output without changing the formal triac dimmer. Compared to the formal CFL solution, this solution not only provides energy savings, but also higher reliability and a much longer operating life.


STMicroelectronics AN2590 Application Note: 20 W Dimmable CFL Ballast Solution - cover page
Brand
STMicroelectronics
Document type
Application Note
Language
English
Pages
17
File format
PDF
File size
838 KB
Published
06 August, 2012
Updated
28 September, 2023
MD5 checksum
38DF390278F73F3C9FD5309448516031

About this manual

The document presents a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) ballast solution designed for use with standard triac dimmers. Unlike traditional CFLs that fail or flicker under dimmer control, this design allows the lamp power to be adjusted from 20% to 100% of full illumination without changing the existing dimmer hardware. The solution is based on the L6574D high-performance ballast driver and includes a power factor correction (PFC) circuit.

What's inside

  • Typical dimming system for incandescent lamps
  • Formal CFL ballast and its disadvantages
  • Proposed solution
  • Board description
  • Application circuit
  • Dimming function
  • Principle of the main circuit
  • Calculations
  • Electrical specifications
  • Test results

Specifications

Power rating20 W
Dimming range20% - 100%
Driver ICL6574D
MOSFET typeSTD4NK50Z Zener protected SuperMESH Power MOSFETs
Rectifier typeSTTH1L06 turbo 2 ultra fast high voltage rectifiers

Frequently asked questions

Can this solution replace incandescent lamps in formal dimming systems?

Yes, it can completely replace incandescent lamps in formal dimming systems.

What is the minimum dimming level for this solution?

The lamp power can be dimmed from below 20% up to 100% of full illumination.

Does this solution require changing the existing triac dimmer?

No, it works without changing the formal triac dimmer.

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