Single-stage line-coupled half-bridge ballast with unity power factor and ripple-free input current using a coupled inductor

A single-stage line-coupled half-bridge ballast with unity power factor and ripple-free input current using a coupled inductor is proposed. The proposed power-factor-correction circuit can achieve unity power factor and ripple-free input current using a coupled inductor. A saturable transformer constituting the self-oscillating drive limits the lamp current and dominates the switching frequency of the ballast. The proposed ballast has high energy efficiency, low cost, and high reliability compared to the conventional high-power-factor electronic ballasts. Experimental results obtained on a 30-W fluorescent lamp is discussed.