Roger Kemp explains how the latest developments in lighting controls have opened up new market sectors for electrical contractors.
At all the recent building and home renovation shows, visitors are able to see stands that promote the latest in lighting and building control solutions. Whereas at one time these products were very much in the domain of specialist companies, the development of digital technology and self-commissioning capabilities has now simplified the whole installation and programming processes, so that non-specialist electrical contractors can now undertake these types of installations.
By incorporating self-commissioning capabilities, manufacturers have made digital lighting controls very easy for the contractor to install and for the user to operate, as no software knowledge is required to programme or alter set scenes. The use of a modular concept allows the contractor to install a very simple switching and dimming operation, or to address a client’s more sophisticated requirements – such as providing global control of all the lighting circuits, or linking the system with other intelligent devices, such as CCTV or fire safety systems.
Control plates are usually connected to the dimmer system using low voltage CAT5 style cable and data communication. This type of cable can enhance response times and allows these systems to control or dim from an almost unlimited number of control points. Additionally, infrared handsets offer users the advantages of remote control and remote programming options.
These lighting control systems are usually available in a range of options to suit different types of applications. For example, a triac-controlled leading edge dimmer system will be able to drive incandescent lamp loads up to 600W/channel; for heavier loads, there are versions that will manage 1200W /channel (or greater). Specific circuitry is available to operate high frequency (HF) 0-10V fluorescent ballasts and LED luminaires with suitable 1-10V dimmable drivers.
Where non-dimmable lighting is featured within the lighting design scheme, settings can be altered from dimming to switching to enable these luminaires to be turned on and off as part of a set scene. Where required, an optional relay card can be used to control switched devices such as blinds, curtains, shutters and roof-lights – thereby changing the function of a system from purely lighting control to that of managing a range of building control solutions.
Interface with fire & security
To provide an enhanced level of safety and security, systems can be interfaced with intruder and fire alarms. Where required, the addition of a standard panic button facility will bring all lighting circuits up to maximum when operated. This option is particularly suited to owners of top end properties where perceived value makes the homes a prime target for intruders. At the same time, a ‘holiday mode’ option can be incorporated, which will mimic the buildings previous lighting pattern whenever the building is unoccupied. This creates the very real impression of the building being fully occupied.
The simplicity of the programming options on the latest technology allows set scenes to be created by simply pressing and holding the selected channel buttons in turn until the required level of lighting is achieved. This scene is then stored by depressing the button for a set period of time. By offering users a choice of control options, such as push-to-make rockers and rotary controls, as well as handheld remote controllers, the contractor will be able to address their client’s specific requirements. This makes the whole system extremely user-friendly.
