Startup/Striking the Bulb

Normal operation of the HID system starts at the ballast. The 2 wires at the ballast input connector contain the battery positive voltage power supply and ground return. As soon as the input power is applied, the ballast draws 20 amps from the battery for 5 - 10 seconds depending on the input voltage level. The ballast is then able to charge the two outputs leading to the start to -360 volts and +800 volts. -360 volts and +800 volts are the voltages needed by the starter to strike, or start, the lamp. HID headlamps do not have filaments like traditional bulbs. Instead, the starter uses a high-voltage transformer to convert the +800 volts input power into 25,000 volts. The increased voltage is used in order to create an arc between the electrodes in the arc tube. The creation of this arc begins the start up process.