Programmed rapid-start electronic fluorescent ballasts turn on lights near-instantaneously. They are more energy efficient and less damaging to fluorescent light bulbs than instant-start ballasts and rapid-start ballasts. They are used in lighting fixtures that will be turned on or off frequently via occupancy sensors and other lighting controls that automatically operate the lights. The ballasts provide a small amount of voltage to preheat the bulbs' filaments before the bulbs turn on.
