Harmonic analysis of some light sources used for domestic lighting

Measurements of voltage and current waveforms produced by a variety of light sources used for domestic lighting are presented. Incandescent, halogen, compact fluorescent, linear tubular fluorescent (with a magnetic choke and with an electronic ballast) and two forms of light emitting diode (LED) lamps were measured. From the voltage and current waveforms measured, the total harmonic distortion (THD), distortion and displacement power factors (PFs) and the net PF are estimated for the different lamp types. This analysis suggests that compact fluorescent and LED lamps may exhibit high levels of THD due to their spiky current waveforms.