Ballasts... Digital or Magnetic?

A ballast reduces the amount of electricity being used by a circuit by limiting it and this makes sure that the light bulbs to not take more power than they can handle. Without this the bulbs could burn our or even explode so a ballast is an absolutely essential item.

The two main types of ballasts to choose from are magnetic or digital and both have their advantages so here is an overview.

Components

Magnetic ballasts are a tried and tested device. They contain a core that is composed of steel plates that are wrapped in a core made from copper wire. The magnetic field that it produces regulates the current that is provided to the bulbs.

Digital ballasts use a modern technology. The electronic circuits are what regulates the charge and because they don't generate the same kind of heat as magnetic circuitry they are more efficient. They can be easily customised to generate various power levels for different bulbs and are available in dimmable versions.

Style

Digital ballasts are slimmer and lighter in weight. Magnetic ballasts tend to have a slight humming sound because of the nature of their design.

Features

Because the power output is typically adjustable with digital ballasts only one device will be required if switching between lamps is part of your growing strategy. With magnetic ballasts you would need to have different devices.

To increase the durability of your bulbs some digital ballasts have a 'soft start' option. This slowly releases the power to the lamp. It can also sense when the bulb reaches the end of its life which is a useful warning to replace them in time.

One slight disadvantage with digital is the radio frequencies that are emitted. Despite often having a humming sound the magnetic ballasts do not produce this.

Costs

Magnetic ballasts are often cheaper for the actual device but the long term running costs of a digital ballast are definitely cheaper.

Summary

Digital Ballast

Advantages

• Higher output
• Can be dimmable
• Silent
• Compact
• Efficient
• Lower running costs

Disadvantages

• Higher initial cost
• Radio Frequency emissions

Magnetic Ballast

Advantages

• Cheaper initial cost
• No radio frequency emissions
• Lower intensity output

Disadvantages

• Less efficient
• Humming noise
• Can get hot
• Bulky and heavy

To view all of the ballasts that we have on offer click here