Parameters variation influence in class E amplifiers used as ballast for fluorescent lamps

The class E amplifier presents advantages such as: low weight, size and components number, simple structure, high efficiency, etc. which make very interesting its application in ballasts for fluorescent lamps. However, the principal disadvantage that this topology presents is the complexity of its design, since in the class E amplifier all the elements are interrelated. In this paper an analysis of the parameters variation influence in the design and operation of the class E amplifier used as ballast for fluorescent lamps is presented. Furthermore, experimental results of a prototype of 12 V for 21 W lamps are also included.