HID ballast/LCD projector switching spark gap symptoms

[linuxglobal]

Hi everyone,

Im looking into fixing some hid ballasts. They worked perfect until a few days ago when 1 started flashing and cutting out. Im not sure but when i took it apart i saw the switching spark gap flicker right when the bulb began to cut out. Once it dies shaking it tapping it wont do anything.

I tried running it on its side, and it starts up with no problems.

I was just wondering if anyone knew the symptoms of a dying or faulty switching spark gap. This one has a breakdown voltage of 600V. I have the rest of the specs on it. Im actually getting one from the states in a few days (Canadian).

I have a video of the ballast booting up and failing + how the spark gap flickers. I wonder, if the spark gap fails would that break the ignition sequence. I have pics + videos if you guys know anything on the topic.
Email me at camunteanu@gmail.com if you want me to send u the 2 vids i have of the ballast activity. I have board pics with the serial codes. + the location of the spark gap

They use the switching spark gaps in lcd projectors as well.

Thanks in advance. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[linuxglobal]

does anyone at least know how a switching spark gap functions? I was told they rarely break down. But if they do, would they cause a complete ignition failure??

Thanks.

 

[Someone Electro]

Nothing else than a spark gap thats starts conducting once its reached its breakdown voltage (Its arcs over betwen contacts)

 

[stevez]

I had a failure with a GM lighting system (98 Envoy) and techs who did first repair (warranty) replaced both lamp and ballast/ignitor - explaining that they could not determine which part was at fault - and that the failure of one part can damage the other.

A year later I replaced the other side - not under warranty. Parts alone were $750 US - insane. If they fail again I'm converting back or to a more common HID system.

In both cases failure was preceeded by white light turning pink over a period of a few minutes.

 

[linuxglobal]

hmmm ya the envoy had a DC system. Dim and unreliable. You are better off getting a regular hid AC setup for under 300$ USD for everything.

You will have to rebase your bulbs to fit into your housing.

Someone Electro,

So the spark gap could cause this cutout im seeing?

Thanks

 

[linuxglobal]

k,,, so how can i tell if the spark gap is failing??