BALLASTS FOR HID LIGHTING

TECHNICAL DATA
NOTE: See pages T-8 through T-15 for Ballast Electrical Data and for
Ordering Number Logic for each HPS, metal halide and mercury ballast type.

Ignoring the different HPS performance characteristics can:

LIGHTING SYSTEMS CHARACTERISTICS
• Result in more energy use and increased operating costs
GE Lighting Systems operate high intensity discharge (HID) • Severely shorten lamp life
lamps: mercury, metal halide, and high pressure sodium (HPS). In
• Significantly add to system's maintenance costs
these systems the ballast is an interface.
• Produce lower than desired light levels
• Increase wiring and circuit breaker installation costs
• Result in lamp cycling when voltage dips occur

There are three basic electromagnetic HPS ballast types:

Non-Regulating Lead-Type Regulators Lag-Type Regulators
THE BALLAST HAS THESE FUNCTIONS Reactor CWA-Constant Wattage Magnetic Regulators
1. Start and stabilize the lamp Lag Auto-Regulating or Auto- Regulated Lag
2. Control lamp wattage as line voltage varies High Reactance Regulator
Auto Transformer CWI-Constant Wattage
Reactor Isolated Winding
Mercury (or mercury vapor) lamps are the oldest and most mature
of the three types. They have long lives, but are only slightly more NOTE: A Lag-Type (Magnetic) Regulator Ballast is an isolated three-
efficient than incandescent lamps in terms of maintained efficiency section core and coil, including a tertiary winding. A capacitor is
over lamp life. The radiant energy from the arc of a clear mercury always connected across this tertiary winding, not in series with the
lamp is generated in four discrete visible spectral lines that produce lamp. A CWI type high pressure sodium ballast (although isolated
an unattractive rendition of object colors and skin tones. Therefore, winding) does not provide characteristics of lamp regulation, power
most mercury lamps today use coatings of chemical phosphors on factor, dip tolerances, etc. equivalent to those of a magnetic
their glass outer wall to modify and improve color rendering. regulator.
Metal halide lamps use sodium in their arc tubes to give them The key factors in selecting the right HPS ballast must involve the
comparatively high light output. The arc tubes also have other system (lamp and ballast) changes that occur over normal lamp life
metals or chemicals mixed with the sodium to balance and improve as presented in this table.
color. In fact, these lamps have become the standard for lighting
sports for TV. Their lives are shorter than those of mercury lamps;
but, they are significantly more efficient. BALLAST TYPE
High pressure sodium (HPS) lamps generate light with a sodium Lead-Type Lag-Type
Regulator, Regulator
(primarily) arc discharge. This gives them the highest luminous Non-Regulating Auto-Regulator Magnetic
efficacy (lumens of light per watt of energy used) of these three (Reactor, Lag) (CWA, CWI) Regulator
lamps (over twice that of mercury). Their average rated life is similar LINE VOLTAGE
to that of mercury lamps. VARIATION ±5% ±10% ±10%
All three HID lamps require supplemental electromagnetic and/or
electronic circuitry (normally called a “ballast”) to start and stabilize BALLAST 20% to 50% less 10% to 40% less -
the arc discharge and to condition the external power supply to the LOSSES than Lag-Type than Lag-Type
lamp's specific electrical requirements. The selection of a ballast Regulator Regulator
type depends on where it is to be used. Mercury and metal halide POWER FACTOR 90%+ to 65% 90%+ to 65% 90%+
lamps change little in operating characteristics over life and ballast
operation remains fairly constant. But HPS lamps change operating VOLTAGE DIP 15% to 7% 50% to 10% 55% to 25%
characteristics dynamically over life. Following is an explanation of TOLERANCE
general operating characteristics of HPS ballasts followed by a
tabular listing of typical electrical data of different ballast wattages LAMP WATTAGE 2.5% for each 1% 1.5% for each 1% 0.8% for each 1%
and types for all three HID lamps. REGULATION change of line change of line change of line
voltage voltage voltage

KEYS TO SELECTING HPS BALLAST All ballasts have a 6-month operating capability with cycling lamp

The high pressure sodium lamp, unlike metal halide and mercury • LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION–The line voltage limits within which a
ballast will operate a lamp to meet a lamp manufacturer's specifica-
vapor, has changing electrical characteristics over its life. For in- tions. Non-regulating ballasts will typically tolerate only a ±5%
stance, lamp operating voltage can change as much as 60% over variation in line voltage, while regulating type ballasts will tolerate
lamp life. Thus, the key to good system performance is ballast oper- ±10% changes.
ating characteristics throughout the life of the lamp.
Starting problems can occur with non-regulating ballasts when the
line voltage drops below 95% of nominal.

GE Lighting Systems, Inc. 2003/ T-5

www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt002-5.p65 5 5/5/03, 2:11 AM

 BALLAST TYPES AND OPERATING
CHARACTERISTICS (HPS ONLY)
TECHNICAL DATA

• LINE INPUT WATTAGE – The sum of the lamp wattage and ballast Dip Tolerance
losses. (Typical Data for 400W HPS)
• LAMP WATTAGE – The wattage delivered to the lamp by the bal- MAGNETIC REGULATOR

Percent Nominal Line Voltage Dip

last. This value is measured in the laboratory under controlled test
conditions in which a lamp is selected for nominal lamp voltage and
the ballast is operated at nominal line voltage.
• BALLAST LOSSES – Line input watts minus lamp watts equal bal-
last losses. Ballast losses represent the energy consumed by the LEAD-TYPE REGULATOR
ballast to operate the lamp. Standard industry practice is to measure
and publish ballast losses without the luminaire. This practice has
been followed because no two fixtures are alike in construction and
component location or operate at the same temperature. NON-REGULATING TYPE
The amount of energy consumed is dependent on the type of ballast
selected, its design, construction, and materials composition, and
operating ambient temperature. A non-regulating ballast can be
designed to produce minimum losses at a specific line voltage. If the
incoming supply is different, an additional transformer must be
used and energy consumption increases substantially. Regulating Lamp Voltage
ballast designs trade off losses for other desirable features such as
lamp wattage and line voltage regulation, dip tolerance, stable
power factor and lower fusing currents. As a result, since regulating • LINE CURRENT – On regulating types, the line current as the lamp
ballasts are being asked to do more work, these ballasts have the starts is less than the final operating current, so that circuit breaker
higher losses. ratings can be based strictly on the operating current values. For
non-regulating ballasts, the line starting current or open circuit
• POWER FACTOR (PF) – The ratio of (line wattage to line volts X current may be considerably higher than the final operating value,
amps), expressed as a percent. A high power factor (HPF) ballast so circuit breakers and photoelectric control switches must be sized
must have a power factor of at least 90%. Anything less is consid- to accommodate this higher current. (See notes on page 367 for
ered normal power factor (NPF). NPF designs normally range from fusing practices.)
40-60%.
• LAMP WATTAGE REGULATION – The ability of a ballast to control
An NPF ballast draws about twice the operating line current of an lamp wattage as the incoming line voltage varies.
HPF design and may require larger conductors, switches, breakers
or distribution transformers for the same lighting load. Where an Line voltage variation can be caused by fluctuations in supply from
NPF lighting load adversely affects overall power factor, energy the power company. Public utility commissions normally permit the
rates may be significantly increased. utility company ±6% line voltage variation. This allows them to re-
spond to excessive peak demands such as summer air conditioning
A lag-type regulating ballast will have a power factor greater than loads or winter fuel shortages.
90% throughout the rated life of the lamp regardless of line voltage
or lamp aging. A lead-type regulating ballast will initially have at Line voltage can also vary because of the length of the wiring run or
least 90% PF but may drop as low as 65% due to lamp aging. It is conductor size used in an installation. Long runs produce voltage
possible for HPF non-regulating ballasts to drop below 90% as lamps drops.
and capacitors age. Non-Regulating ballasts produce large changes in light output as
line voltage changes. A 1% line voltage change will cause a 2.5%
light output change. Lead-type regulating ballasts are designed for
±10% line voltage variation and a 1% change in line voltage will
produce a 1.5% change in lamp wattage. Lag type regulators are the
best at controlling lamp light output. Each 1% change in line voltage
produces only a 0.8% change in lamp wattage.
• TOLERANCE TO ABNORMAL OR LAMP END-OF-LIFE OPERATING
CONDITIONS – refers to ballast and ignitor operations following a
lamp open or short circuit failure or when a high pressure sodium
lamp reaches the end of life and starts to cycle.
Regardless of whether the ballast is a regulating or non-regulating
design, an HPS system (which includes the electromagnetic core
and coil, the ignitor and the capacitor) should be capable of a 6
months extended period of operation in any of these three luminaire
abnormal operating conditions. All GE Lighting Systems ballasts are
designed and tested for these conditions.
• VOLTAGE DIP TOLERANCE – The ability of a ballast to operate a HOW TO TELL IF THE BALLAST WILL OPERATE PROPERLY – Each
lamp during voltage drops. The dip tolerance published is measured high pressure sodium ballast design has its own “fingerprint”, the
in accordance with ANSI C82.6.9 Extinction Voltage Test. volt-watt trace.
Lamp voltage rise is a normal operating characteristic of high pres- Lamp manufacturers and ANSI provide ballast designers with speci-
sure sodium lamps as they age. As aging occurs, dip tolerance fications that establish a ballast's operating characteristics neces-
deteriorates. Some ballasts are more susceptible than others. Refer sary for the lamp to achieve published performance.
to ballast electrical data and the following diagram for comparisons. All HID ballasts meet all ANSI standards.

T-6/2003
GE Lighting Systems, Inc.
www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt006-11.p65 6 5/5/03, 2:13 AM

 BALLAST TYPES AND OPERATING
CHARACTERISTICS (HPS ONLY)

TECHNICAL DATA
Due to normal lamp manufacturing tolerance, a new HPS be higher than the end-of-life lamp voltage in order to allow
lamp may vary from its nominal design voltage as much as for line voltage dips and fixture effects.
15%. Initial lamp lumen output will vary by approximately the The relationship between lamp wattage and lamp voltage that
same amount. Remember also, that as the HPS lamp ages, its occurs as the lamps age while being operated by a ballast
lamp voltage increases until the ballast can no longer sustain produces the volt-watt trace “fingerprint.”
lamp operation and end of life cycling begins. The ability of
the ballast to operate the lamp at higher voltages is referred
to as the lamp drop-out point. The lamp drop-out point should

PULSE START METAL HALIDE SYSTEMS

The arc tube shape, fill material and starting method for some The new metal halide ballast/lamp/fixture combinations offer:
new metal halide lamps are dramatically different, with
resulting improvements in performance and color stability. • Higher initial lumens than traditional systems
With some new metal halide lamps such as the "E" lamp, a • Hot restart time of approximately four minutes, rather than
pulse ignitor outside of the lamp provides the high voltage ten to fifteen minutes
pulse needed for starting. The pulse start metal halide lamp
is offered as a "P" light source choice for selected products. • 50% longer lamp life than traditional systems
GE offers pulse ignitor magnetic regulator and autoregulator • Higher delivered maintained lumens than traditional
ballasts that can be used for a number of fixtures. See systems
product pages for lamp and ballast availability and the
following pages for ballast electrical data. • Improved color stability than traditional systems

GE Lighting Systems, Inc. 2003/ T-7

www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt006-11.p65 7 5/5/03, 2:13 AM

 BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA
TECHNICAL DATA

NOTES WARNINGS
The letter in the box before each ballast description corresponds to the Ballast Type Size branch circuits to accommodate line-operating amperes or line starting am-
in the Ordering Number Logic for each product. For example, M is the Ordering peres–whichever is larger.
Number Logic for magnetic regulator ballasts. See product pages for availability of The data listed is typical of that obtained when a ballast is tested under laboratory
each ballast type. conditions as a separate component. When these components are encapsulated, or
Ballast choices other than those described on these pages also appear on product mounted in luminaires, the values listed below will vary depending upon the enclo-
sure being used, lamp position and lamp variations. The component value method of
pages. They are: testing is used so that uniform testing procedures may be followed on all ballasts.
B = System 3 TM Bi-Level Control autoregulator (see Indoor Lighting Section page I- 1. Input voltage variations over the full range of allowable percentage range will
92) vary lamp wattage as shown in the “ELECTRICAL BALLAST CIRCUT AND OPER-
G = the same ballast as M except G has a grounded socket shell ATING CHARACTERISTICS” section on pages T-14 and T-15.
2. The voltage of high pressure sodium lamps changes with lamp life causing
K = Hot Restart (restrikes the lamp instantly after a power interruption; see Indoor corresponding changes in lamp watts, so that the regulation cannot be stated in
Lighting Section page I-118) the same terms as for other HID lamp types. All HPS ballast types, over the full
W = Whisper Quiet TM autoregulator (for situations where a quieter ballast is range of “allowable line voltage variation,” control lamp watts within the pre-
required). Contact factory for ballast electrical data. scribed limits of operation throughout the rated life of the lamp, as defined by
trapezoidal limits in ANSI Standards for High Pressure Sodium lamps.
3. Mercury reactor ballasts listed in wattages 100 to 400 may be used at 50Hz as
follows: 240 volts (60Hz) at 220 volts (50Hz). Reactors used on 220 volts are only
* For outdoor products the line watts are 481. adequate for lamp starting to 0°F.
** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit 4. All HID ballasts will provide satisfactory lamp starting to -20°F (-40°F for HPS)
or starting condition. Normal run current will be lower. minimum over the recommended line-voltage variation.
*** Kilowatts of constant-current transformer capacity per ballast recommended 5. Fusing: Not recommended as protection for individual HID ballast. If specified,
for proper operation. fuse(s) should be rated 3 times maximum current. Fusing may cause nuisance
interruptions. The fusing of a reactor type ballast should be avoided.
6. Ballast Losses = Line Watts - Lamp Watts

= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
HPS BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA—SINGLE VOLTAGE, 60Hz
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps Watts Type Watts Volts Amps Watts
HPS BALLAST MAGNETIC REGULATOR HPS BALLAST–AUTO-REGULATOR (LEAD TYPE) – CWA
M ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10% A ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10%
S-51 400 120 4.0 481 * S-52 1000 120 9.7 1105
208 2.3 479 * 208 5.5 1103
240 2.0 477 240 4.9 1105
277 1.7 478 277 4.2 1104
347 1.4 478 347 3.5 1105
480 1.0 477 * 480 2.5 1109
S-67 310 120 3.3 388 S-111 750 120 7.1 839
208 1.9 388 208 4.1 839
240 1.7 387 277 3.1 841
277 1.6 385 347 2.5 844
480 0.8 371 480 1.8 847
S-50 250 120 2.7 324 S-51 400 120 3.9 469
208 1.5 306 208 2.3 476
240 1.4 315 240 2.0 478
277 1.2 322 277 1.7 468
347 0.9 304 347 1.4 467
480 0.7 315 480 1.0 469
S-66 200 120 2.1 252 S-67 310 120 3.0 360
208 1.2 248 208 1.8 362
240 1.1 251 240 1.5 362
277 0.9 247 277 1.3 361
480 0.5 251 347 0.7 363
S-55 150 120 1.6 197 480 0.8 363
208 0.9 196 S-50 250 120 2.5 303
240 0.8 195 208 1.5 304
277 0.7 196
347 0.6 195 240 1.3 305
480 0.5 196 277 1.1 305
347 0.9 307
S-54 100 120 1.2 137 480 0.7 304
208 0.7 136 S-66 200 120 2.0 238
240 0.6 136 208 1.2 239
277 0.5 136 240 1.0 240
347 0.4 137 277 0.9 240
480 0.3 137 347 0.7 240
S-62 70 120 0.8 99 480 0.6 239
208 0.5 93
240 0.4 98 S-55 150 120 1.6 186
277 0.3 93 208 0.9 185
347 0.3 99 240 0.8 183
480 0.2 98 277 0.7 183
480 0.4 185
L SUPER LOW LOSS BALLAST HPS BALLAST – AUTOREGULATOR (CWA)
ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10% S-54 100 120 1.2 123
208 0.7 120
S-51 400 120 3.9 442 240 0.6 120
208 2.3 455 277 0.5 119
240 2.0 451 347 0.4 121
277 1.7 453 480 0.3 127
480 1.0 455 S-62 70 120 0.8 89
S-50 250 120 2.4 288 208 0.5 88
208 1.4 289 240 0.4 87
240 1.2 290 277 0.3 87
277 1.1 289 347 0.3 88
347 0.9 291 480 0.2 88
480 0.6 293
* For outdoor products the line watts are 481.

T-8/2003
GE Lighting Systems, Inc.
www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt006-11.p65 8 5/5/03, 2:14 AM

 TECHNICAL DATA
= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
HPS BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA—SINGLE VOLTAGE, 60Hz (Continued)
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps** Watts Type Watts Volts Amps** Watts
HPS BALLAST–REGULATOR (LEAD TYPE) – CWI HPS BALLAST–REACTOR TYPE (HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG)
P ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10% H ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
S-50 250 120 2.5 300 S-50 250 120 4.8 300
208 1.5 300
240 1.3 300 S-66 200 120 4.1 235
277 1.1 293 S-55 150 208 1.6 182
347 0.9 299 240 1.4 184
480 0.7 298 277 1.2 184
S-66 200 120 2.0 236 347 1.0 185
208 1.2 244 480 0.7 193
240 1.1 240 S-54 100 208 1.2 126
277 0.9 244 240 1.0 125
347 0.7 242 277 0.9 126
S-55 150 120 1.6 189 347 0.8 120
240 0.8 189 480 0.5 129
S-54 100 120 1.1 131 S-62 70 208 0.8 91
240 0.6 130 240 0.7 88
277 0.6 89
S-62 70 120 0.8 94 347 0.5 85
240 0.5 94 480 0.4 93
HPS BALLAST–REACTOR TYPE (HIGH POWER FACTOR S-68 50 208 0.6 63
H REACTOR OR REACTOR AUTO-TRANSFORMER) 240 0.5 64
ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5% 277 0.4 65
S-52 1000 480 4.2 1067 347 0.4 63
S-51 400 208 3.8 438
240 4.1 440
S-67 310 208 2.8 345 N HPS BALLAST–REACTOR TYPE (NORMAL POWER FACTOR LAG)
240 3.1 340 ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
S-50 250 208 2.3 281 S-51 400 120 12.2 455
240 2.4 298 S-50 250 120 8.0 288
S-66 200 208 1.8 223 S-66 200 120 6.8 231
240 2.1 231
S-55 150 208 2.8 182
S-55 150 120 2.4 173 240 2.3 184
S-54 100 120 1.7 117 277 2.1 184
S-62 70 120 1.3 86 347 1.6 185
S-68 50 120 0.9 61 S-54 100 208 1.8 126
S-76 35 120 0.8 40 240 1.8 125
277 1.5 126
HPS BALLAST–REACTOR TYPE (NORMAL POWER FACTOR 347 1.2 120
OR REACTOR AUTO-TRANSFORMER) 480 0.7 129
N S-62 70 208 1.6 91
ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
S-52 1000 480 6.6 1067 240 1.4 89
277 1.2 89
S-51 400 208 6.6 438 347 1.0 85
240 6.2 440 480 0.7 93
S-67 310 208 5.0 347 S-68 50 208 1.1 63
240 4.6 338 240 1.0 64
S-50 250 208 4.0 281 277 0.9 65
240 3.8 298 S HPS BALLAST – SERIES TYPE
S-66 200 208 3.2 223 ANSI Maximum Loading
240 3.2 231 Lamp Line Line Factor
S-55 150 120 4.4 172 Type Watts Amps Watts (KW)***
S-54 100 120 3.2 117 S-50 250 6.6 285 0.96
S-62 70 120 2.0 85 S-66 200 6.6 233 0.75
S-68 50 120 1.5 60 S-55 150 6.6 174 0.57
S-76 35 120 1.0 40 S-54 100 6.6 121 0.40
S-62 70 6.6 85 0.28
** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit or S-68 50 6.6 64 0.22
starting condition. Normal run current will be lower.
** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit or
starting condition. Normal run current will be lower.
*** Kilowatts of constant-current transformer capacity per ballast recommended for
proper operation.

GE Lighting Systems, Inc. 2003/ T-9

www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt006-11.p65 9 5/5/03, 2:14 AM

 BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA
TECHNICAL DATA

= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
HPS—MULTIVOLT, 60Hz
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps Watts Type Watts Volts Amps** Watts

M HPS BALLAST–REGULATOR (LAG TYPE) – MAGNETIC REGULATOR HPS BALLAST– REACTOR TYPE (HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG)
ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10% H ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
S-51 400 120 4.0 481 S-111 750 120 13.7 840
208 2.3 479 208 7.0 840
240 2.0 477 240 6.9 835
277 1.7 478 277 5.9 838
S-67 310 120 3.3 388 S-55 150 120 2.7 182
208 1.9 388 208 1.6 184
240 1.6 385 240 1.4 182
277 1.4 386 277 1.2 184
S-50 250 120 2.6 316 S-54 100 120 2.0 126
208 1.5 314 208 1.2 126
240 1.3 312 240 1.0 125
277 1.1 312 277 0.9 126
S-66 200 120 2.1 249 S-62 70 120 1.4 88
208 1.2 248 208 0.8 91
240 1.1 248 240 0.7 89
277 0.9 247 277 0.6 89
HPS BALLAST – REGULATOR (LEAD TYPE) – CWI S-68 50 120 1.0 63
P ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10% 208 0.6 63
S-50 250 120 2.6 300 240 0.5 64
208 1.5 300 277 0.4 65
240 1.3 300 HPS BALLAST – REACTOR TYPE (NORMAL POWER FACTOR LAG)
277 1.1 293 N ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
S-66 200 120 2.1 244 S-55 150 120 4.7 182
208 1.2 244 208 2.8 184
240 1.0 244 240 2.3 182
277 0.9 244 277 2.1 184
HPS BALLAST – AUTO-REGULATOR (LEAD TYPE) – CWA S-54 100 120 3.1 126
A ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10% 208 1.8 126
S-52 1000 120 9.7 1105 240 1.6 125
208 5.5 1103 277 1.4 126
240 4.9 1105 S-62 70 120 2.8 88
277 4.2 1104 208 1.6 91
S-51 400 120 4.0 473 240 1.4 89
208 2.3 476 277 1.2 89
240 2.0 475 S-68 50 120 1.9 63
277 1.8 475 208 1.1 63
S-50 250 120 2.6 306 240 1.0 64
208 1.5 304 277 0.9 65
240 1.3 308 ** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit or
277 1.1 308 starting condition. Normal run current will be lower.
S-66 200 120 2.0 239
208 1.2 239
240 1.0 239
277 0.9 239
S-55 150 120 1.6 186
208 0.9 185
240 0.8 183
277 0.7 184
S-54 100 120 1.0 121
208 0.6 120
240 0.5 120
277 0.4 119
S-62 70 120 0.8 88
208 0.5 88
240 0.4 87
277 0.3 87

T-10/ 2003
GE Lighting Systems, Inc.
www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt006-11.p65 10 5/5/03, 2:14 AM

 BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA

TECHNICAL DATA
= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
HPS BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA—MULTIVOLT, 50 Hz
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps Watts Type Watts Volts Amps** Watts
HPS BALLAST–REGULATOR (LAG TYPE) – MAGNETIC REGULATOR HPS BALLAST– REACTOR TYPE (HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG OR REACTOR)
M ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10% H ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
S-51 400 220 2.2 482 S-51 400 220 2.2 441
240 2.0 485 230 2.1 441
380 1.3 481 240 2.0 441
S-50 250 220 1.4 307 S-50 250 220 1.4 276
240 1.3 306 230 1.3 276
380 0.8 307 240 1.2 276
S-55 150 220 0.9 204 S-56 150 (100V) 220 0.9 174
230 0.9 204 230 0.8 174
240 0.9 204 240 0.8 174
S-56 150 (100V) 220 0.9 202 S-55 150 220 0.9 188
S-62 70 220 0.5 98 230 0.8 188
240 0.8 184
70 (90V) 220 0.5 104
S-54 100 220 0.6 125
A HPS BALLAST – AUTO-REGULATOR (LEAD TYPE) – CWA
ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±10%
230 0.6 125
240 0.6 125
S-52 1000 220 5.2 1093 100 (100V) 220 0.6 114
230 5.0 1093 230 0.6 114
240 4.8 1092 240 0.6 114
380 3.0 1105 S-62 70 220 0.4 87
S-51 400 220 2.2 469 230 0.4 87
240 2.0 472 240 0.4 87
230 2.1 474
70 (90V) 220 0.5 85
380 1.2 463 230 0.4 83
S-50 250 220 1.4 299 240 0.4 83
230 1.3 299
S-68 50 220 0.3 60
240 1.3 300 230 0.3 60
S-66 200 220 1.1 242 240 0.3 60
230 1.1 236 50 (90V) 220 0.3 57
240 1.0 235
230 0.3 58
240 0.3 58
HPS BALLAST – REACTOR TYPE (NORMAL POWER FACTOR LAG)
N ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
S-51 400 220 4.7 439
230 4.7 442
240 4.7 443
S-50 250 220 3.0 276
240 3.0 278
S-66 200 240 2.3 221
S-55 150 240 1.8 185
S-56 150 (100V) 220 1.9 174
230 1.8 174
240 1.9 174
70 (90V) 220 1.0 84
230 1.0 83
240 1.0 83
50 (100V) 220 0.7 57
230 0.8 58
240 0.7 58

** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit or
starting condition. Normal run current will be lower.

Data subject to change without notice

GE Lighting Systems, Inc. 2003/ T-11

www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt006-11.p65 11 5/5/03, 2:14 AM

 BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA
TECHNICAL DATA

= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
METAL HALIDE AND MERCURY BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA—SINGLE VOLTAGE, 60 Hz
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps Watts Type Watts Volts Amps** Watts
A METAL HALIDE BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (PEAK LEAD) CWA METAL HALIDE BALLAST– REACTOR TYPE (HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG)
H ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
M-134 2000 208 11.3 2121
240 9.7 2115 M-102 150 120 4.0 178
277 8.5 2113 208 2.3 177
347 6.7 2122 240 1.8 175
480 4.9 2130 277 1.7 175
347 1.2 180
M-48 1500 120 14.4 1648
208 8.5 1640 M-90 100 120 2.0 122
240 7.1 1643 208 1.1 122
277 6.2 1642 240 1.0 122
347 5.2 1641 277 0.8 122
480 3.5 1633 347 0.7 121
480 0.7 125
M-47 & H-36 1000 120 9.0 1077
208 5.7 1085 M-98 70 120 2.0 95
240 5.0 1089 208 1.2 93
277 3.9 1078 240 1.0 94
347 3.5 1077 277 0.9 98
480 2.3 1087 347 0.7 88
480 0.5 92
M-59 & H-33 400 120 4.0 450
208 2.3 460 C MERCURY BALLAST – REGULATOR TYPE (CWI)
240 2.0 456
277 1.7 459 H-36 1000 480 2.5 1095
347 1.4 463 H-35 700 480 1.8 780
480 1.1 459 H-33 400 120 4.0 477
M-58 & H-37 250 120 2.6 294 208 2.3 472
208 1.5 297 240 2.0 472
240 1.3 291 277 1.7 470
277 1.1 290 480 1.0 472
347 0.9 293 H-37 250 120 2.8 307
480 0.7 297 208 1.6 307
M-57 or H-39 175 120 1.8 206 240 1.4 307
208 1.0 208 277 1.2 307
240 0.9 208 480 1.1 296
277 0.8 208 H-39 175 120 1.7 211
347 0.6 209 208 1.0 210
480 0.5 211 240 0.9 210
SUPER LOW LOSS BALLAST 277 0.7 210
L METAL HALIDE BALLAST – AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (PEAK LEAD) CWA 480 0.4 212
M-59 400 120 3.9 439 H-38 100 120 1.1 130
208 2.3 444 208 0.6 129
240 2.0 447 240 0.6 129
277 1.7 440 277 0.5 127
347 1.4 448 480 0.3 129
480 1.0 450
H MERCURY BALLAST – REACTOR TYPE (HPF)
M-58 250 120 2.6 282 H-36 1000 480 3.3 1116
208 1.5 278
240 1.3 278 H-35 700 480 2.4 736
277 1.1 280 H-33 400 240 2.9 435
347 0.9 282 H-37 250 240 1.7 264
480 0.6 284 H-39 175 240 1.8 194
S-66 200 120 2.1 244 H-38 100 240 0.9 111
208 1.2 244
240 1.0 244 N MERCURY BALLAST – REACTOR TYPE (HPF)
277 0.9 244 H-33 400 240 5.1 435
S MERCURY BALLAST – SERIES TYPE H-37 250 240 4.5 264
ANSI Maximum Loading H-39 175 240 2.3 194
Lamp Line Line Factor H-38 100 240 1.6 111
Type Watts Amps Watts (KW)***
H-36 1000 6.6 1070 1.55
N MERCURY BALLAST – REACTOR TYPE (HPF)
H-33 400 120 11.2 452
H-33 400 6.6 445 0.65 H-37 250 120 7.6 286
H-37 250 6.6 285 0.47 H-39 175 120 5.2 206
H-39 175 6.6 207 0.40
H-38 100 120 3.8 118
H-38 100 6.6 125 0.30
** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit or
*** Kilowatts of constant-current transformer capacity per ballast recommended for starting condition. Normal run current will be lower.
proper operation.

T-12/ 2003
GE Lighting Systems, Inc.
www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt012-17.p65 12 5/16/03, 7:53 AM

 BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA

TECHNICAL DATA
= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
PULSE METAL HALIDE BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA—SINGLE VOLTAGE, 60 Hz
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps Watts Type Watts Volts Amps** Watts
A PULSE METAL HALIDE BALLAST–AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (CWA) M PULSE METAL HALIDE BALLAST–MAGNETIC REGULATOR TYPE
M-149 750 120 6.9 820 M-128 400 120 3.9 459
208 4.1 831 M-135 208 2.3 467
240 3.5 826 240 2.0 469
277 3.0 822 277 1.7 470
347 2.4 832 347 1.4 469
480 1.8 834 480 1.0 469
M-135 400 120 4.1 454 Venture 250 120 2.4 289
208 2.3 459 M-138 208 1.4 291
240 2.1 460 240 1.2 290
277 1.8 460 277 1.0 289
347 1.4 463 347 0.9 291
480 1.0 467 480 0.6 294
M-131 350 120 3.4 400 H PULSE METAL HALIDE BALLAST–REACTOR TYPE (HPF)
208 2.0 400
M-135 400 277 2.4 424
240 1.7 400
277 1.5 400 M-131 350 277 2.1 373
347 1.2 400 M-132 320 277 1.8 340
480 0.9 400
H PULSE METAL HALIDE BALLAST–REACTOR TYPE (HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG)
M-132 320 120 3.3 368
208 1.9 368 M-102 150 120 4.0 178
240 1.6 368 208 2.3 177
277 1.4 368 240 1.9 175
347 1.1 368 277 1.7 175
480 0.8 368 347 1.2 180

M-138 250 120 2.5 286 M-90 100 120 2.0 122
208 1.5 290 208 1.1 122
240 1.3 288 240 1.0 122
277 1.1 288 277 0.8 122
347 0.9 291 347 0.7 121
480 0.6 291 480 0.7 125

M-137 175 120 1.8 206 M-98 70 120 2.0 95

208 1.0 209 208 1.1 93
240 0.9 207 240 1.0 94
277 0.8 212 277 0.9 98
347 0.6 211 347 0.7 88
480 0.5 211 480 0.5 92

M-102 150 120 1.7 190 ** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit or
277 0.7 194 starting condition. Normal run current will be lower.

GE Lighting Systems, Inc. 2003/ T-13

www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt012-17.p65 13 5/16/03, 7:57 AM

 BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA
TECHNICAL DATA

= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
METAL HALIDE, PULSE MH, AND MERCURY BALLAST ELECTRICAL DATA—MULTIVOLT, 60 Hz
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps Watts Type Watts Volts Amps** Watts
A METAL HALIDE BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (PEAK LEAD) CWA METAL HALIDE (OR PULSE MH) BALLAST–
M-48 1500 120 14.3 1648 H REACTOR TYPE (HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG)
ALLOWABLE LINE VOLTAGE VARIATION: ±5%
208 8.7 1640
240 7.2 1635 M-90 100 120 2.0 122
277 6.1 1631 208 1.1 122
240 1.0 122
M-47 1000 120 9.9 1102 277 0.8 122
208 5.7 1085
240 5.0 1089 M-98 70 120 2.0 95
277 4.3 1087 208 1.2 93
240 1.1 94
M-59 400 120 4.1 454 277 0.9 98
208 2.4 459
240 2.0 460 C MERCURY BALLAST – REGULATOR TYPE (CWI)
277 1.8 460 H-33 400 120 4.0 476
M-58 250 120 2.6 294 208 2.3 472
208 1.5 297 240 2.0 472
240 1.3 291 277 1.7 470
277 1.1 292 H-37 250 120 2.8 307
M-57 175 120 1.8 207 208 1.6 307
208 1.0 208 240 1.4 307
240 0.9 208 277 1.2 307
277 0.8 208 H-39 175 120 1.7 211
208 1.0 210
A PULSE MH BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (PEAK LEAD) CWA
240 0.9 210
M-135 400 120 4.1 454 277 0.7 210
208 2.3 459
H-38 100 120 1.1 130
240 2.0 460 208 0.6 129
277 1.8 461
240 0.6 129
M-131 350 120 3.4 400 277 0.5 127
208 2.0 400
240 1.7 400 ** Note: For H or N type systems the maximum current is for the open circuit or
277 1.5 400 starting condition. Normal run current will be lower.
M-132 320 120 3.3 368
208 1.9 368
240 1.7 368
277 1.4 368
M-138 250 120 2.5 286
208 1.5 290
240 1.3 288
277 1.1 288

T-14/ 2003
GE Lighting Systems, Inc.
www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt012-17.p65 14 5/16/03, 7:57 AM

 SNAPDRIVE ELECTRICAL DATA TM

TECHNICAL DATA
= Ballast Type in Ordering Number Logic table. See individual product pages.
SMALL SNAPDRIVE ELECTRICAL DATA
ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps* Watts Type Watts Volts Amps* Watts
H PMH BALLAST– HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG (HX-HPF) A PMH BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (CWA)
M-90 100 120 2.6 129 M-137 175 120 1.8 210
208 1.5 129 208 1.1 210
240 1.3 129 240 0.9 210
277 1.2 129 277 0.8 210
M-102 150 120 3.7 185
208 2.1 185
240 1.8 185
H HPS BALLAST– HIGH POWER FACTOR LAG (HX-HPF)
277 1.6 185 S-54 100 120 2.2 130
208 1.3 130
A MH BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (CWA) 240 1.9 130
M-57 175 120 1.8 210 277 0.9 130
208 1.1 210 S-55 150 120 2.8 188
240 0.9 210 208 1.6 188
277 0.8 210 240 1.4 188
480 0.5 210 277 1.3 188

MEDIUM SNAPDRIVE ELECTRICAL DATA

ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps* Watts Type Watts Volts Amps* Watts
A HPS BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (CWA) A MH/PMH BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (CWA)
S-50 250 120 2.6 294 M-58 250 120 2.6 294
208 1.5 295 M-138 208 1.5 296
240 1.3 294 240 1.3 294
277 1.1 294 277 1.1 295
480 0.7 304 480 1.0** 295
S-51 400 120 4.0 469 M-59 400 120 4.1 454
208 2.3 473 M-135 208 2.3 459
240 2.0 472 240 2.0 460
277 1.7 471 277 1.8 460
480 1.0 469 480 1.0 460

LARGE SNAPDRIVE ELECTRICAL DATA

ANSI Rated Maximum ANSI Rated Maximum
Lamp Lamp Input Input Input Lamp Lamp Input Input Input
Type Watts Volts Amps* Watts Type Watts Volts Amps* Watts
A PMH BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (CWA) A MH BALLAST– AUTO-REGULATOR TYPE (CWA)
M-149 750 120 6.9 820 M-47 1000 120 9.0 1080
208 4.1 831 208 5.2 1080
240 3.5 826 240 4.5 1080
277 3.0 822 277 3.9 1080
480 1.8 834 480 2.2 1080
* For all H type ballasts maximum input amps are Open Circuit.
** For this CWA, maximum input current is Open Circuit, run current is 0.7.
Data subject to change without notice.

GE Lighting Systems, Inc. 2003/ T-15

www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt012-17.p65 15 5/16/03, 7:58 AM

 GENERAL ELECTRIC BALLAST CIRCUITS
AND OPERATING CHARACTERISTICS
TECHNICAL DATA

% Total Starting Order-

Allowable Lamp Current Crest Factor ing
Lamp Line Voltage Regulation Power (Variation From Input Ballast of Number
Type Circuit Diagram Line Volts Variation Spread Factor Operating Current) Voltage Dip Losses Lamp Current Logic

Regulator
(CWI)
Any Voltage ± 10% 11-17% 90% + Higher 50% Medium 1.6-1.7 M
METAL HALIDE

Auto-Regulator
(Peak Lead) Any Voltage ± 10% 20% 90% + Lower 50 to 40% Medium 1.6-1.8 A
(CWA)

Lag
90%+
Any Voltage ± 5% 25% HPF Higher 20% Low 1.4-1.5 H(HPF)

Magnetic
Regulator
(Lag Reg) Any Voltage ± 10% 11% 90% + Lower 60% High 1.5 M
(Pulse Start)
PULSE METAL HALIDE

Auto-Regulator
(CWA) Any Voltage ± 10% 20% 90% + Lower 50 to 33% Medium 1.6-1.8 A
(Pulse Start)

Lag
90%+
Any Voltage ± 5% 25% HPF Higher 20% Low 1.4-1.5 H(HPF)

Reactor
277 ± 5% 20% 90% Higher 30% Low 1.4-1.5 H(HPF)

T-16/ 2003
GE Lighting Systems, Inc.
www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt012-17.p65 16 5/16/03, 7:58 AM

 GENERAL ELECTRIC BALLAST CIRCUITS
AND OPERATING CHARACTERISTICS

TECHNICAL DATA
% Total Starting Order-
Allowable Lamp Current Crest Factor ing
Lamp Line Voltage Regulation Power (Variation From Input Ballast of Number
Type Circuit Diagram Line Volts Variation Spread Factor Operating Current) Voltage Dip Losses Lamp Current Logic
Magnetic
Regulator 55%
Any Voltage ± 10% 14-18% 90% + Lower to High 1.7 M
(Regulated 20%
Lag)

Regulator
(CWI) 35%
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM

Any Voltage ± 10% 20-30% 90% + Lower to Medium 1.6-1.8 P

(70-750 watt) to 65%

Auto- Up to 750w
Regulator 35% to 10%
Any Voltage ± 10% 20-30% 90% + Lower - - - - - - - - - Medium 1.6-1.8 A
(CWA) to 65% 1000w
(Peak Lead) 18% to 2%
Reactor 120 Volt for 90%+
35-150 Watt to 65% H(HPF)
------- ---- HPF 15%
208 & 240 Volt - - - - - - - Higher ------
for 200-400 Watt ± 5% 25% 55% to Low 1.4-1.5
----- ------ to 40% 7%
480 Volt for N(NPF)
1000 Watt NPF

Lag 240 & 277 Volt 90%+ to H(HPF)

for 50-150 Watt 65% HPF 15%
- - - - - - - - - - - ± 5% 25% - - - - - - - Higher to Medium 1.4-1.5 ------
120 Volt for 50% to N(NPF)
200 & 250 Watt 30%NPF 7%

Regulator
(CWI) Any Voltage ± 13% 4% 90% + Lower 60% High 1.8-2.0 C

Auto-
Regulator Any Voltage ± 10% 10% 90% + Lower 50% to 40% Medium 1.8-2.0 A
(CWA)
MERCURY

Reactor 240 Volt for 90%+

100-400 Watt HPF H(HPF)
- - - - - - - - - - - ± 5% 20% - - - - - - - Higher 25% Low 1.4-1.5 ------
480 Volt for 60% to
50% NPF N(NPF)
700 & 1000 Watt

Lag 55% H(HPF)

120 Volt for
100-400 Watt ± 5% 20% to Higher 25% Medium 1.4-1.5 ------
40% N(NPF)

GE Lighting Systems, Inc. 2003/ T-17

www.gelightingsystems.com

c.pt012-17.p65 17 5/16/03, 7:58 AM