A new design tool specifically for lighting applications is now available on st.com. This PC baed tool creates designs for electronic ballasts driving fluorescent tubes and CFLs and subsequently selects the products most suited to the design.
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Screen shot of design tool main page |
Efficient design in three easy steps |
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The user has to specify the desired requirements in
order to obtain a full set of data needed to create
an efficient ballast.
Three simple steps must be followed:
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Specify the high-level requirements: |
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Mains range: European, American or Wide Range
Choose lamp and ignition type
Additional options: PFC, dimming
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Select and execute the preferred solution: |
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Fixed or variable frequency based on drivers:
L6585D, L6574, L6569, L6562
Discrete solution based on BJTs STx724, STx83003, STx93003
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Refine the suggested design, once you have been
presented with:
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Bill of materials
Web links
Fully annotated schematic
Lamp circuit working point, steady-state simulation
Device datasheets and application notes
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The benefits of using this tool are numerous:
Choice of lamp/tube available on the market
Thermal analysis of working conditions
Steady-state lamp stage simulation
Ready working solution to develop/propose
Reducing time-to-market
Links with Internet pages, application notes, product datasheets and lighting designs
Design information and a detailed schematic are created
Product selector and bill of materials |
Besides creating the design, the tool also selects the devices to be included in the project. A table of part-numbers fitting the project requirements is proposed. Once the project has been developed, the tool creates a complete set of documentation including a detailed BOM list.
Products are selected to suit the design requirements
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