This reference design integrates Zilog’s ZAURA RF 868 MHz Wireless Module with a fluorescent ballast base power board to create a Fluorescent Ballast Demonstration Board designed to showcase the features and performance of an inductor-based fluorescent lamp driver with active power factor correction (PFC) and a microcontroller (MCU). The result is a quick time-to-market reference solution that will control fluorescent lighting installations and assist in achieving reduced energy expenditures in offices, schools, factories and other facilities.
On its own, without the ZAURA RF Wireless Module attached, the fluorescent ballast base power board functions as a demonstration board, providing current to power fluorescent lamps. However, this base power board cannot control lamp brightness because the source of the PWM pulses required to perform this operation is generated by the Z8F2480 MCU on the RF Module.
In combination, however, the base power board with the ZAURA RF Module attached – all controlled by a hand-held remote control device – enable RF communication to turn fluorescent lamps on and off, and to adjust the brightness of these fluorescent lamps within a 10%–100% range.
For purposes of demonstrating RF control, the hand-held ZAURA RF Remote Control device is also included with this reference design.
The Fluorescent Ballast with ZAURA Control reference design includes the following features:
- Fluorescent Ballast Base Power Board
- Two-lamp testing capability
- ZAURA RF 868 MHz Wireless Module
- Remote brightness and on/off control
- 180 VAC to 230 VAC input
Get started developing your application today! Purchase the Fluorescent Ballast with ZAURA Control Reference Design from the Zilog Store.
