Why A Digital Ballast Is Superior To A Magnetic Ballast

High Intensity Discharge lights work wonderfully in hydroponic applications. Not only do HID lamps produce light that mimics sunlight more closely than the light produced by the other bulbs, but it so using less energy and in a way that extends the life of the bulb. Any type of HID lights that you choose to use for hydroponic lights will require a lamp ballast. There are three basic types of ballasts available for lamps used in hydroponic gardening: magnetic, electronic and digital ballasts. Digital ballasts are superior to magnetic ballasts for several reasons.

magnetic ballast is needed to control electric current flowing through the HID lamps. ballast and the light fell and kept it lit. If the electric current flowing in the light of the full voltage, the bulb will burst, and offers a controlling factor ballast is necessary for the proper functioning of any HID lights. magnetic ballast consists of one or more aluminum or copper coils that sit on a core that is composed of steel laminations. coils and core work in conjunction with a capacitor, and sometimes lighter. These four parts are usually built into the ballast housing.

digital ballast offers the same electrical control as does the magnetic ballast, but with a digital model of the current corresponds to an optimal level of performance for each specific type and wattage of the bulb, made ​​possible through digital circuitry. Magnetic ballasts weigh more than they do digital, consider setting up greenhouses, and they also run hotter than digital units. Because of more consistent application of electricity, the lamps last longer and function at a higher level using less energy with a digital ballast than they might with a magnetic ballast. With a digital ballast, light produced is more consistent. Magnetic ballasts, especially as they age, they become noisy when they operate, causing the HID lamps flicker and also contribute to irregularities in the color of the lamp gives off. Digital units also can sense when almost lamp is used, and can close the unit when not functioning optimally.

a particular type of ballast you will need depends on the wattage HID lamps, and the type you use. There are four types of HID lights, which consists of a metal halide, high pressure and low pressure sodium and mercury vapor. Each of them offers advantages in terms of efficiency, lamp longevity, stability, color and brightness that you will want to consider depending on how you use the lamp with your plants.