Ballast controller first to support choice of power circuitry
STMicroelectronics has announced a 'breakthrough' energy saving device for fluorescent lighting. The semiconductor specialist says its new ballast controller is capable of reducing design time and costs and will fulfill the requirements of energy saving regulations such as Energy Star.
According to ST, the L6520 integrated circuit is the first device to provide a choice of using low cost power switches without compromising reliability. The IC has been designed to be used in a range of lamp topologies and power ratings, with temperature range from -25 to 85°C.
A digital control core embedded in the device integrates all functions and protection, which ST claims saves up to 30% of external components needed with alternative controllers. The L6520/1 is currently in volume production.
