Digital Ballasts

Lamps, whether MH, HPS or CMH, need a ballast to function. A digital ballast uses a frequency voltage converter and is significantly more efficient than its magnetic counterpart. Magnetic ballasts are cheaper, but the investment in a digital device pays off much more in the long term when you consider its many advantages. Digital ballasts are more reliable and offer clearly higher output.

The output of dimmable models can be adjusted precisely as needed using a digital microprocessor. This means you can use one ballast to power and ignite lamps with different wattages instead of buying a new ballast every time you want to use a lamp with a different output.

The vast majority of these ballasts have built-in protection against overheating or short circuits, and they are generally safer than magnetic versions. They also generate less heat and noise, which you will certainly appreciate in a home grow room. The soft start function ignites the lamp gradually, thereby extending its life. Other features of some digital ballasts include the SL (super lumen) function, which increases output, or lamp detection. With a digital ballast, you also avoid flickering lamps and uneven light output.

A clear favourite in this category is the switchable ballast from LUMii. A safe choice is the high standard of quality from Lumatek, which also offers models designed for 400 V lamps.

Ballasts for CMH including the lamp are also available.

We can also confidently recommend products from brands such as LUMii, DimLux or Spectromaster.

Depending on the lamp parameters, you can filter ballasts by output from 250 to 1000 W.

Efficient illumination of the space is ensured by a quality shade.

If you are looking for a complete lighting solution for your grow room, we can recommend lighting sets and our range of complete fixture.

Frequently asked questions about digital ballasts

What is the difference between a digital and a magnetic ballast?

A digital ballast controls the lamp with a frequency voltage converter - it runs more quietly, generates less heat, offers soft start and dimming, and delivers higher output from the lamp. A magnetic ballast is simpler and cheaper, but heavier, noisier, and without output control.

Does the ballast power have to match the lamp?

Yes. Choose the ballast according to the lamp wattage - in the range you can filter from 250 to 1000 W. Dimmable and switchable models can handle several power levels (for example 250-400-600-660 W), so one unit can run lamps with different wattages.

Can a digital ballast handle MH and HPS lamps?

Most universal digital ballasts are compatible with MH and HPS lamps, and some also with CMH. Always check which types and voltage the given model is compatible with - for 400V lamps you need a corresponding 400V ballast.

What is the Super Lumen function for?

The SL (Super Lumen) function temporarily increases the output above the rated value and the lamp shines more intensely. It is used deliberately, because higher output also means more heat and faster lamp wear.

Not sure which ballast suits your lamp? Write to us at info@higarden.cz and we will choose a combination that will work reliably.