Gary, I'm not sure of this but It seems like when I was running Pertronix only pickup that the module would interchange with the standard GM HEI module. I always carried a spare in the glovebox. I have never been left on the side of the road while running points but have called for help several times using Pertronix and Mallory HEI.
In my understanding the ballast resistor sends 12V to the ignition during cranking then falls back to 6-8 volts while running. I don't think an HEI needs it but again not sure. Maybe look on the Pertronix web site.
