Fluorescent lamp characterization automated data acquisition system

The data acquisition process is an important step in the development of device models, and usually requires large amounts of time. Besides, since it is a process controlled by a scientist, it is subject to human errors. The automation of this process by a configurable system removes the human error factor and does not require full time attention from the scientist. These drawbacks are more evident when a device has to be modeled under various conditions, has a slow thermal response or a large database of various models has to be built. In this scope, the objective of this paper is to present the structure and results of an automated data acquisition system for fluorescent lamps. The aim of this system is to generate a database, which will be used in further studies of universal electronic ballasts.