Remote lighting control: types of systems, selection of equipment + installation rules

Properly designed remote lighting control makes it possible to correctly turn on and off light sources located at a distance, weaken or increase the overall illumination intensity and activate emergency lighting devices in case of urgent need.

The presence of a “smart” system increases the level of room comfort, significantly reduces energy resource consumption and allows you to control lighting equipment without being on site.

In this material we will tell you how to properly organize the installation of remote lighting, about the types of control devices and the rules for self-installation of remote control systems.

Classification of remote control devices

Remote lighting control systems are available automatic, semi-automatic And manual.

The former manifest themselves most effectively in large-sized residential cottages, buildings and structures, on large plots and large-scale local areas.

Through an intelligent controller they are connected to a computer and programmed to perform tasks of any complexity. They are expensive, but they completely take over the control of lighting at the site.

Using an automatic remote lighting control system, you can provide targeted light to designated areas in areas of any size at strictly defined times.

Semi-automatic systems work well in private households where it is not necessary to control a large number of light sources.

Manual options provide for remote control of one or a group of lighting fixtures using a remote control or controller. Installation of such modules is very simple and does not require the participation of highly specialized specialists.

Let's take a closer look at each of the options.

Type #1 - automatic control equipment

The main task of automatic systems (ACS) is to provide energy-efficient lighting in residential and work buildings.

The software and hardware complex not only controls the timely activation and deactivation of the light flow, but also implements a progressive algorithm Daylight.

This allows you to continuously maintain a level of illumination in the premises that corresponds to generally accepted basic standards.

Based on sensor information, the automated control system can independently reduce the brightness of the artificial light flux when a sufficient amount of daylight enters the room. This helps reduce energy consumption

Remote systems designed for automatic control of lighting devices and elements are divided into two main classes:

• local;
• centralized.

Local type equipment controls one group of luminaires. The centralized complex allows the connection of an unlimited number of separately controlled light sources to the communication node.

Local control systems. Local control units are placed in small-sized, compact housings and are mounted directly on the lamp or lamp bulb.

Sensors that record the signal are a single electronic communicator built into the system.

Lighting devices equipped with additional sensors can exchange current data with each other via the electrical network. This function allows you to provide lighting in a certain area of ​​the building even if there is only one person there

Local-type remote devices are divided into two groups according to the scope of control. The first includes control units for certain lighting devices, the second includes complexes that regulate the level of lighting of the entire room as a whole.

Centralized automatic system. The basis of centralized control equipment is microprocessors capable of simultaneously regulating the full operation of several hundred light sources.

Communicators with this configuration not only manage the process of lighting premises, but also competently interact with telephone networks, fire alarms and other engineering systems (security and safety, ventilation, chimney, air conditioning and heating).

Additionally, centralized-type complexes pick up signals from local sensors and supply control pulses to lighting fixtures under control.

If a room or building has areas with different levels of natural light, the control system takes this into account. Activation and deactivation of lamps occurs in rows or separate groups, depending on changes in the amount of light entering the room during the day

Processing and transformation of signal information is carried out within a single node.

This opens up wide possibilities for manual control of lighting in buildings of any scale and significantly simplifies making the necessary changes to the basic algorithm of the light supply system.

Type #2 - semi-automatic control option

Semi-automatic control systems are a unit with several toggle switches, built into the distribution board.

They are programmed to activate and deactivate lighting in certain rooms and areas of the local area at a time convenient for the owners. They do not provide for connection to the control system of all residential premises, work buildings and parts of the adjacent area.

Type #3 - manual devices for lighting control

Special remote controls allow you to manually turn the lights on and off remotely.

Based on the type of signal, they are divided into two groups:

• radio controlled;
• infrared (IR).

Radio controlled. Devices using radio waves do not pollute the airwaves during operation and correctly send a signal to a light source located outside the immediate visibility zone.

The basic range of the devices is about 100 m, however, this figure is reduced by 3-4 times if there are natural obstacles in the room or in the adjacent area.

To increase the coverage area of ​​the radio-controlled remote control, you can install additional repeaters. With their help, the signal will reach even the most remote rooms and rarely visited corners of the site

Group of IR devices. The infrared device works reliably and clearly transmits commands, but only in line of sight.

It has a small radius of influence and sends an impulse over a distance not exceeding 12 meters in the presence of a powerful transmitter.

Some manufacturers complete radio remote controls with one or more key fobs configured to control a specific group of devices. This element is convenient to attach to your car keys, so as not to carry the main remote control with you.

Standard infrared-type manipulators have from 5 to 7 buttons programmed for a specific action.

Radio wave devices have 7-10 buttons that can control not just one device, but a configured group. For example, in one click you can activate the lighting in the garage area and at the same time open the gate for a car to enter.

Equipment for the control complex

The lighting control complex is a multifunctional communication unit with wide optional capabilities.

It combines lighting devices, sensors, photocells and other auxiliary devices into a single intelligent system.

The lighting control system is controlled not only through a touch screen or remote control, but also through advanced mobile applications and web interfaces for computers, smartphones and tablets

If necessary, the network operates completely independently in the established mode and does not require constant user participation.

Additionally, the complex may include:

• circuit breakers with the option of self-activation and deactivation;
• dimmers, able to automatically adjust the level of light flux power in enclosed spaces and open locations;
• lamps with advanced functionality — automatic switching on and off, increasing or decreasing power, changing the color temperature and shade of the supplied light;
• LED strips with additional options and RGB-type control controllers;
• motion sensors, light, presence in the room, opening doors and windows;
• remote switches.

Properly configured control equipment operates reliably and interacts correctly with fire alarms, HVAC and other systems present in the premises.

Control units They are communication nodes with buttons on the body panel and carry out the correct switching on and off of lighting devices.

Some models control the intensity of the light flow and its brightness, and have the ability to receive and process remote control signals. The block buttons are independently programmed for specific actions.

The communication unit can not only control the switching on and off of lights, but also remotely control various automatic electronic systems, such as garage doors or blinds.

Controllers refer to simplified elements of remote control of lighting networks.

They are manufactured in a wall-mounted design and are usually mounted at the entrance to the room. Remotely activate and deactivate lighting devices according to the established program.

Initially, the module is configured by the manufacturer for a standard operating algorithm. You can make changes to the operating mode through the connected LCD display and keyboard.

The program begins to operate by receiving a signal from sensors, timers, the remote control, or by manually pressing buttons on the controller body itself.

RGB-type controllers are used for remote control of LED strips.

They have wider functionality and regulate parameters such as:

• on/off;
• lighting brightness;
• glow range.

Using these control elements, you can change the tone of the light flow, adjusting it to the situation or mood.

Sensors They belong to the auxiliary elements of the control system and react to changes in certain parameters.

Families with small children should equip their premises with motion sensors. This ensures that the child is never left indoors without lighting.

Motion-detecting modules activate the lights when a user enters the room and turn off the lights when the room is empty. This makes it possible to use energy resources efficiently and not pay a lot of money on utility bills.

Light level sensors are most useful in outdoor systems. They promptly turn on the lights in the local area when it gets dark outside, and promptly turn them off when the sun rises.

This method of remote control allows you to save energy and reduce the operational load on street lighting devices.

Time relays and timers make it possible to control lighting according to a specific schedule. The user can set the required interval for turning on and off the equipment independently.

Read about how to connect a time relay Further.

Some device models are equipped with a microprocessor and are subject to programming for specific tasks.

There are control buttons on the body of electronic time relays. By pressing, the user can set the required range for switching system operating modes

Photocells control the natural light in a room or open area.

When the light flux level decreases, the artificial light supply is activated and its intensity is increased as needed.They do not react to sudden bright flashes and take into account only the general background illumination.

Recommendations for arranging lighting controls

The choice of suitable elements for organizing a lighting control system directly depends on the object that needs to be taken under control.

It is necessary to buy components only in specialized stores, giving preference to products from trademarks and brands that have proven themselves in the market.

Subtleties of organizing a control system in an apartment

For a standard city apartment, installation of the system is advisable if there is multi-tiered internal lighting.

A chandelier, wall sconces, ceiling lamps and other light sources in the room are connected to the control unit. Full or partial activation/deactivation of lighting devices is carried out via a remote control.

In the living rooms of the apartment, using the remote control, you can change the lighting intensity and perform spot lighting of certain areas or interior elements

It is wiser to install motion sensors in sanitary areas. Then the lights in these rooms will turn on only at the time of the visit, and turn off 1 minute after the user leaves.

Tips for cottage owners

A small private house with a minimal surrounding area should be equipped with a semi-automatic lighting control system. This will not require large expenses, but will increase the comfort of your stay.

You can connect a spotlight above the entrance gate, lights along the path to the house, and lamps in the hallway and living room to the module.

Remote control of the lighting system in a private home is available via a mobile phone. To do this you need to install a special application with a client interface

In large-sized cottages with a vast local area, automatic remote control systems are most effective, including not only basic components, but also additional sensors, timers, dimmers and controllers.

The presence of such elements allows you to control every aspect of lighting not only indoors, but throughout the entire surrounding area.

Main advantages of control systems

Initially, the ability to remotely control lighting was only available in expensive and advanced systems "smart House". Now the situation has changed and the function has begun to be implemented in simpler control complexes and blocks.

One of the main advantages of the control system is the ability to control groups of devices or individual light sources from a single client interface

Remote equipment has many useful qualities and advantages.

Among the main advantages are the following important positions:

• Ensuring the security of the premises in the absence of owners. System control is available through any modern gadget with Internet access. Property owners, when going on a business trip or vacation, can program the lights to automatically turn on/off, simulating the presence of residents in the house or apartment.
• Saving money and materials during installation. To install the simplest remote control system, you do not need to buy a cable or hire workers to wall gating and spend additional money in the future on replacing wires.
• Independence from voltage surges and emergency shutdowns electricity. In many advanced control systems, the cabinet, automatic machine and touch switch with the remote control are in contact via radio waves and do not require the presence of an energy resource in the network.
• Financial feasibility. Remote control units allow you to use electricity as efficiently as possible and illuminate only the necessary objects, rooms and territories at any given moment. With this approach, the efficiency of the lighting system increases, and energy consumption decreases without compromising the comfort of property owners.

These parameters make the systems a relevant and popular technical solution for remote control of lighting equipment.

Self-installation rules

Local and centralized remote control systems are integrated into the existing electrical wiring on site. In this case, powering the circuits with working resources from lines supplying electricity to lighting devices is permitted.

The role of current circuit breakers is played by switches that react to the receipt of a signal.

“Sophisticated” control modules have expanded functionality and have the ability to change internal network parameters, turn off certain zones from lighting and leave lighting at the optimal level only in those rooms where it is appropriate at a particular moment.

All the elements necessary for independently setting up a lighting control system at a distance can be purchased in specialized stores or ordered online

Self-installation of the remote control complex at home is acceptable.

But for this you need to follow the basic fire safety rules and take the following steps in the specified sequence:

1. De-energize the wiring in the room through the panel and install a sign warning about the work in progress.
2. Carefully remove outdated push-button switches using a profile tool.
3. In the vacant spaces, place multifunctional electronic devices equipped with a receiver, signal decoder and disconnector.
4. Securely insulate the contact area between the network wires and the working board of the remote control unit.
5. Activate the electrical current supply and carefully test all elements of the control system for serviceability and functionality.
6. If no problems are identified, proceed to operation.

If you do not have practical experience working with electrical devices, you should not take on the task yourself. It is better to use the services of professionals and entrust them with the installation of control equipment.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Features of the street lighting remote control module. Detailed review and testing of the device functionality.

How to control interior lighting in an apartment using a remote control.

Control of lighting in residential premises using relays.

A progressive control system for internal and external lighting provides the ability to control all light flow parameters. For ordinary city apartments, a device with a remote control is best suited.

At large facilities and large cottages with large surrounding areas, the automatic complex demonstrates maximum efficiency. The first version of the equipment (with a remote control) is easy to install yourself.

Installing the second one requires specific knowledge and specialized experience. Work of this level is best left to professional electrical engineers.