An Electric ballast is an electronic device whose main purpose is to limit the amount of current flowing through an electric circuit. Hence it is also called as a control Gear for electric circuits.

There are many different kinds of electric ballasts. They can be simple ballasts, or may be very complex ballasts. A simple resistor put in series in an electric circuit is an example of a simple Ballast. This simple ballast can be used with small bulbs like Neon Lamps. But in case of simple ballasts, a lot of energy gets wasted using resistors, hence alternative complex ballasts are used nowadays which make use of Inductors, Capacitors or both, having suitable reactances.

Computerized ballasts or Remote controlled ballasts form the most complex type of electronic ballasts. These may be used with fluorescent lamps.

Ballasts are used in a circuit to provide a positive resistance to it. In some circuits, there are electronic devices which provide a negative resistance to it. Hence they withdraw a lot of current, which may lead to the damage of the source or that device. Hence, in order to regulate the amount of current flowing in a circuit the electronic ballasts are used with such devices.

Gas discharge lamps, etc. are some devices which provide a negative resistance to an electronic circuit.

LED's or Light emitting diodes have a resistance of their own, but its not sufficient enough to regulate the current flowing from the source through it, and hence electronic ballasts are required in series with them, in order to make the current appropriate so it does not destroys the Diode.

Rapid start Electronic ballasts should be used for fluorescent lights having 40 watts as their average power, because such electronic ballasts cause lesser problems than others. True electronic ballasts are very useful for long time use. They produce a very high output as compared to other ballasts, keeps the temperature adequate and hence results in longer tube life.

The light emitted from Bulbs and lamps is about 12% more when true electronic ballasts are used, and their usage also helps in saving electricity up to 28%. That is, True Electronic ballasts give more output and also help to save electricity, and hence are better than Standard ballasts.

Also, instant start electronic ballasts should be avoided. Instant start ballasts provide a very high voltage at the time of switching the bulb on, so that the lights turn on instantly. But such instant starts wears the light bulb and decreases its intensity within a few days.

Having reflectors about your light may prove very friendly for the bulb or lamp, and may help to provide intense lightning, without much loss of electricity, and will prevent wearing down of your ballast.

Hence, Electronic ballasts, can be a boon for household or commercial lighting purposes, if used judiciously and properly.