What types of ballasts are there?

There are three main categories of ballast for fluorescent and discharge lamps. Conventional ballasts (CCG) are magnetic chokes operating at 50 Hz mains frequency; they require a separate starter and have self-losses of 10–20 % of lamp wattage. Low-loss ballasts (VVG) use improved core materials to reduce losses slightly but still need a starter. Electronic ballasts (EVG) operate at 25–50 kHz, combine ballast and ignition in one unit, eliminate the starter, and save around 23 % energy versus a CCG. For LED modules, a dedicated LED driver – either constant-current or constant-voltage – replaces the ballast.

When do you need a ballast?

A ballast is required whenever you operate a gas-discharge lamp – including all fluorescent tubes (T5, T8), compact fluorescent lamps without an integrated driver, metal halide (HQI) lamps and high-pressure sodium lamps. Without a ballast, the discharge current in these lamps rises uncontrollably after ignition, destroying the lamp within seconds. LED modules that are not self-contained retrofit lamps also need a dedicated LED driver. Standard incandescent and halogen lamps (GU10, E27, etc.) connect directly to mains voltage and do not require a ballast.

Can you simply replace a fluorescent tube with an LED tube?

Replacing a fluorescent tube with an LED tube is possible, but the approach depends on the LED tube type. Ballast-compatible LED tubes are designed to work with a specific EVG – check the compatibility list supplied by the LED tube manufacturer. Mains-direct LED tubes require the existing ballast to be disconnected or bypassed, and the luminaire rewired so that live and neutral connect directly to the lamp holders. In both cases, any starter in the circuit must be replaced with a starter-bridge adapter. Always isolate the luminaire from the mains before starting work.

What is the difference between a transformer and a ballast?

A transformer (or halogen transformer) steps 230 V AC down to 12 V AC or DC for low-voltage halogen lamps such as GU5.3 / MR16 types. It changes voltage but does not limit current in the way a ballast does. A ballast is connected in series with a gas-discharge lamp specifically to limit the discharge current and, where necessary, deliver an ignition voltage pulse. An LED driver is neither a traditional transformer nor a ballast – it rectifies mains AC and delivers a precisely regulated DC output (constant current or constant voltage) to power LED modules safely.

What is the difference between CCG, VVG and EVG?

All three are ballast types for fluorescent lamps, differing in technology and efficiency. A CCG (conventional ballast) is a simple magnetic choke with losses of 10–20 % of lamp wattage; it needs a separate starter and has been banned for new sales in the EU since 2005. A VVG (low-loss ballast) uses better core materials to reduce losses modestly but is also being phased out under EU ecodesign rules. An EVG (electronic ballast) operates at high frequency (25–50 kHz), integrates the ignition circuit, eliminates the starter, reduces system power by roughly 23 % and enables flicker-free dimming. Only EVGs with EEI class A1 or A2 may currently be sold in the EU.

Do LEDs need a ballast or a driver?

LED lamps and modules do not use a ballast in the traditional sense, but they do require a LED driver to operate safely. The driver rectifies mains AC and delivers a regulated DC output – either a fixed current (e.g. 350 mA or 700 mA for constant-current drivers) or a fixed voltage (12 V or 24 V for constant-voltage drivers). Self-contained LED retrofit lamps (E27, GU10, etc.) have the driver integrated into the lamp base and connect directly to mains voltage. LED modules used in professional luminaires and LED strips always require an external driver matched to the module's power and current specification.

How do I connect a ballast?

A ballast is wired in series between the mains supply and the lamp. For a CCG or VVG fluorescent circuit: connect live to the ballast input, the ballast output to one lamp pin, the starter in parallel with the lamp, and neutral to the other lamp pin. For an EVG: connect live and neutral to the EVG input terminals; the EVG output connects directly to the lamp holders – no starter is used, so fit a starter-bridge in the starter socket or remove the starter loop. For HID lamps, wire the ignitor in series between the ballast output and the lamp. Always isolate the circuit from the mains before working on the wiring, and consult a qualified electrician if in doubt.

How can I test a fluorescent ballast?

The quickest way to identify and test a fluorescent ballast is visual inspection. If a separate starter is present in the luminaire, the ballast is a conventional CCG or VVG. If there is no starter socket, the ballast is an EVG. To check whether the ballast is functioning: replace the starter with a known-good unit (for CCG/VVG) or substitute a known-good lamp (for EVG). If the lamp still fails to start, measure the ballast output voltage with a multimeter – a CCG should show mains voltage across its output terminals; an EVG should show a high-frequency voltage. A ballast showing no output voltage is faulty and should be replaced.

Ballasts

SLV LED driver, 30W, 700 mA

LED driver for NUMINOS® XL, 30W, 700mA, on/off. : Product name: LED TREIBER • Colour: white • Material: Plastic PC • electrical power: 36.2 W • IP Code: IP20 • Shape:...

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€23.63 *

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SLV LED driver, 10W, 200 mA, PHASE

LED driver for NUMINOS® XS/S, 10W, 200mA, TRIAC dimming. : Product name: LED TREIBER • Colour: white • Material: Plastic PC • electrical power: 10 W • Dimmable: Yes...

€25.38 *

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Delivery time: 3-5 days

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SLV LED driver, 36W, 500 mA, DALI

LED driver for NUMINOS® L, 21W, 500mA, DALI dimming. : Product name: LED TREIBER • Colour: white • Material: Plastic PC • electrical power: 29 W • Dimmable: Yes...

€60.38 *

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SLV LED driver, 36W, 700 mA, DALI

LED driver for NUMINOS® XL, 30W, 700mA, DALI dimming. : Product name: LED TREIBER • Colour: white • Material: Plastic PC • electrical power: 39.7 W • Dimmable: Yes...

€60.38 *

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LEDVANCE LED TREIBER DR DALI-P-30/220-240/700 20X1 LEDV

LEDVANCE LED DRIVER DALI PERFORMANCE G2 -26/220-240/700

LEDVANCE DALI driver Compact constant current LED driver with DALI dimming interface. Product features: DALI-2 certified LED control gear (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) • Output...

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€24.90 *

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PHILIPS BSN 1000 L78-A2 230/240V 50Hz HP-257 BSN, L78, 380-415V Vorschaltgerät 1000W

PHILIPS BSN 1000 L78-A2 230/240V 50Hz HP-257 BSN, L78, 380-415V Ballast 1000W

PHILIPS BSN 1000 L78-A2 230/240V 50Hz HP-257 BSN, L78, 380-415V Vorschaltgerät 1000W The encapsulated HID-HighPower ballasts are designed for SON (T) (Plus), HPL, HPI, and MH lamps with...

€381.44 *

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Delivery time: approx. 1 week

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PHILIPS BHL 2000 L76-A2 380/400/415V 50Hz HP-317 BHL, L76, 380-400V Vorschaltgerät 2000W

PHILIPS BHL 2000 L76-A2 380/400/415V 50Hz HP-317 BHL, L76, 380-400V ballast 2000W

PHILIPS BHL 2000 L76-A2 380/400/415V 50Hz HP-317 BHL, L76, 380-400V Vorschaltgerät 2000W The encapsulated HID-HighPower ballasts are designed for SON (T) (Plus), HPL, HPI, and MH lamps with...

€474.26 *

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PHILIPS BHD 2000 L76-A2 380/400/415V 50Hz HP-317 380-415V Vorschaltgerät 2000W

PHILIPS BHD 2000 L76-A2 380/400/415V 50Hz HP-317 380-415V Ballast 2000W

PHILIPS BHD 2000 L76-A2 380/400/415V 50Hz HP-317 380-415V Vorschaltgerät 2000W The encapsulated HID-HighPower ballasts are designed for SON (T) (Plus), HPL, HPI, and MH lamps with specified...

€493.49 *

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PHILIPS BSN 400 K407-A2-ITS 230/240V 50Hz BC3 Vorschaltgerät

PHILIPS BSN 400 K407-A2-ITS 230/240V 50Hz BC3 ballast

PHILIPS BSN 400 K407-A2-ITS 230/240V 50Hz BC3 Vorschaltgerät The HID-Basic BSN/BMH MK4 impregnated electromagnetic copper/iron ballasts are designed for use with an external semi-parallel...

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€97.35 *

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PHILIPS HID-PV m 20 /I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz 230V, 50Hz Vorschaltgerät

PHILIPS HID-PV m 20 /I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz 230V, 50Hz ballast

PHILIPS HID-PV m 20 /I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz 230V, 50Hz Vorschaltgerät The HID PrimaVision Compact (HID-PV C) is a very compact electronic ballast designed for optimal and reliable operation of...

€80.14 *

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PHILIPS HID-PV m 35/I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz Vorschaltgerät

PHILIPS HID-PV m 35/I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz ballast

PHILIPS HID-PV m 35/I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz Vorschaltgerät The HID PrimaVision Compact (HID-PV C) is a very compact electronic ballast designed for optimal and reliable operation of CDM lamps....

€158.23 *

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PHILIPS HID-AV C 35-70 /I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz 50/60Hz Vorschaltgerät

PHILIPS HID-AV C 35-70 /I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz 50/60Hz Ballast

PHILIPS HID-AV C 35-70 /I CDM 220-240V 50/60Hz 50/60Hz Vorschaltgerät HID-AspiraVision is the new, most innovative electronic MultiWatt ballast for CDM lamps. The recently added switch...

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PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 60 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Vorschaltgerät

PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 60 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Ballast

PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 60 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Vorschaltgerät HID PrimaVision Xtreme for CPO lamps are highly robust, non-dimmable electronic ballasts for outdoor lighting. This...

€206.12 *

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PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 90 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Vorschaltgerät

PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 90 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Ballast

PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 90 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Vorschaltgerät HID PrimaVision Xtreme for CPO lamps are highly robust, non-dimmable electronic ballasts for outdoor lighting. This...

€213.61 *

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PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 140 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Vorschaltgerät

PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 140 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Ballast

PHILIPS HID-PV Xt 140 CPO Q 208-277V 208-277V 208-277V Vorschaltgerät HID PrimaVision Xtreme for CPO lamps are highly robust, non-dimmable electronic ballasts for outdoor lighting. This...

€219.00 *

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Near-term available
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PHILIPS HF-S 118/136 TL-D II 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V 50/60 Vorschaltgerät 36W

PHILIPS HF-S 118/136 TL-D II 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V 50/60 Ballast 36W

PHILIPS HF-S 118/136 TL-D II 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V 50/60 Vorschaltgerät 36W HF-Selectalume II is an extremely cost-effective, reliable, slimline, and inexpensive fluorescent solution that...

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€17.60 * €13.56 *

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PHILIPS HF-R 2 26-42 PL-T/C EII 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V Vorschaltgerät 2x26-42W

PHILIPS HF-R 2 26-42 PL-T/C EII 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V Ballast 2x26-42W

PHILIPS HF-R 2 26-42 PL-T/C EII 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V Vorschaltgerät 2x26-42W The HF Regulator 1-10 V is a robust and compact electronic high-frequency ballast. This highly efficient...

€50.39 *

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PHILIPS SKD 578 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V, 50Hz 89567400

PHILIPS SKD 578 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V, 50Hz 89567400 Philips HID ignitors (semi-parallel) are suitable for operating conventional lighting with a magnetic ballast. They cover a wide range of...

€27.41 *

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PHILIPS SKD 578-S 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V, 50Hz 89569800

PHILIPS SKD 578-S 220-240V 50/60Hz 220-240V, 50Hz 89569800 Philips HID ignitors (semi-parallel) are suitable for operating conventional lighting with a magnetic ballast. They cover a wide range of...

€27.41 *

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Osram Powertronic PTI35/220-240SNAP

Product advantages Proven, long service life at maximum permissible temperatures • Integrated socket/plug receptacle offers a variety of advantages • Quick and error-free installation of...

€50.00 *

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Osram Vorschaltgerät PTI70/220-240SNAP

Product advantages Proven, long service life at maximum permissible temperatures • Integrated socket/plug receptacle offers a variety of advantages • Quick and error-free installation of...

€35.00 *

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Osram Vorschaltgerät PT-FIT 70/220-240 I Powertronic

OSRAM POWERTRONIC® PT-FIT I 70/220…240 I

ECG for HID lamps, with cable clamp. Product features: Energy Efficiency Index EEI: A2 • Supply voltage: 220…240 V • Line frequency: 50…60 Hz • RI suppression: to EN...

€29.10 *

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Osram Vorschaltgerät QTi DALI 3x18/220-240 DIM

OSRAM QUICKTRONIC® INTELLIGENT DALI DIM T8 3X18 DIM

ECG dimmable DALI for FL 26 mm. Product features: Corridor function for direct connection of ECG to common motion sensor • Corridor function with pre-programmed light program • Touch...

€44.36 *

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ISOLED LED transformer 24V/DC, 0-60W, IP66

LED transformer 24V/DC, 0-60W, IP66 Length: 200mm • Width: 43mm • Height: 32mm • Net weight: 800g • Nominal voltage: 170-250V AC • Nominal power: 60W • Protection...

€31.52 *

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