Monolithic Power Systems, Inc.

Timothy James Rust

James Copland Moyer

David Joseph Christy

A method of driving a lamp that uses a DC to AC inverter that is connected to a primary winding of a transformer is disclosed. The inverter frequency is variable, and in one embodiment, may be controlled by a voltage controlled oscillator. Circuitry is included that monitors the phase relationship between a voltage across a secondary of the transformer and a current through the primary of the transformer. The circuitry monitors the phase relationship and adjusts the inverter frequency, such as by adjusting voltage controlled oscillator, so that the phase relationship is maintained at a predetermined relationship.

Fixed operating frequency inverter for cold cathode fluorescent lamp having strike frequency adjusted by voltage to current phase relationship

The described DC to AC inverter efficiently controls the amount of electrical power used to drive a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL). Additionally, during striking of the CCFL, a higher energy initial energy pulse is used. During normal operation, a lower energy pulse is used.

Method for starting a discharge lamp using high energy initial pulse

A technique for driving one or more EEFLs, having first and second ends, in a bank of EEFLs involves driving the EEFLs at both the first and second ends. In a non-limiting embodiment a device constructed according to the technique includes a bank of EEFLs connected in parallel. The device further includes a first transformer, wherein a secondary winding of the first transformer is coupled to the first end of the bank of EEFLs. The device further includes a second transformer, wherein a secondary winding of the second transformer is coupled to the second end of the bank of EEFLs.

Method and apparatus for driving an external electrode fluorescent lamp

The described DC to AC inverter efficiently controls the amount of electrical power used to drive a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL). The inverter uses a full bridge that is controlled to deliver energy to the CCFL using pulse width modulation (PWM). Additionally, during striking of the CCFL, a wider initial energy pulse is used. During normal operation, a lower energy pulse is used.

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Fremont, CA, United States of America

Timothy James Rust