Lighting and Horns: Description and Operation

Function
The chamber in the xenon headlamps is filled with xenon and a mixture of metal halogenide salts. High voltage causes this mixture to emit tight. The light color is similar to daylight.

When the low beams are switched on the xenon headlamp control module (E1n1, E2n1) activates the xenon headlamp ignition module (E1n2, E2n2) with the control voltage within a few milliseconds.

A light arc is struck between the electrodes by a high voltage surge (approx. 20 kV) starting the xenon headlamp.

If a light arc of sufficient stability is recognized the electronic circuitry in the xenon headlamp control module (E1n1, E2n1) switches over to limited power. The electric power is set to 35 W. A voltage converter generates a voltage of approx. 85 V (AC) required for safe function of the xenon head lamps. Xenon headlamps require a certain starting phase due to technical requirements. After the headlamps are switched on they reach 50% of their full brightness within 1 to 2 seconds and full brightness after approx. 30 seconds.