A ballast is required to start and operate a fluorescent lamp. In combination with the starter the ballast delivers the striking voltage needed to start the lamp. During lamp operation the ballast maintains the required current for the lamp. Ballasts can be divided up into magnetic ballasts ( Conventional Magnetic Ballasts, Low-loss Ballasts) and Electronic Ballasts. The required level of comfort and economy plus technical requirements determine which ballasts are used for which application.