Remote lighting control is widely used in residential buildings, administrative and industrial premises. A typical process device is a light switch with a remote control. Remote control is based on various principles.
In our article, we describe in detail all types of devices that allow you to control devices and lighting systems without direct contact. Independent masters with us will find a step-by-step guide to their installation. To facilitate the selection, we brought the most popular models on the market.
Principles of operation of remote devices
Modern devices that turn on / off light at a distance usually work on the basis of radiation / fixation of waves of a certain frequency (sound, infrared, ultrasound, etc.).
Such devices, as a rule, consist of two parts:
- A receiver on microcircuits, which is installed near a lighting device or a mechanical switch connected by power wires.
- Remote control (remote control).
Let us consider in more detail the most common varieties of such devices.
Infrared switch
The category of devices works on the basis of an infrared wave emitter, remote control of which is carried out from a special unit connected to an open circuit. This makes it possible to turn on / off the lamp using the remote control.
The main disadvantage of such devices is the need for accurate guidance of the infrared signal, which must necessarily be within the user's visibility
A number of manufacturers (BJC, Duwi, Simon, Steinel) have found a way to avoid this problem. The models manufactured by these enterprises are equipped with controllers that convert infrared radiation into a radio signal, which allows to increase the range and overcome obstacles encountered on the way.
Detailed installation diagram of the remote switch. When carrying out work, it should be remembered that copper wires should not be attached directly to aluminum parts - this operation must be carried out through terminal or special connectors
In some cases, commands converted to radio frequencies are converted to IR again at the output, which is necessary to control certain types of devices (air conditioners). Another disadvantage is the insufficient range of infrared waves (up to 20 meters), which can be overcome by using repeaters.
Devices for controlling light over the air
Such devices are often included in the Smart Home system, but can be used independently. In radio frequency remote switches, the command transmission process is carried out using the remote control, the signal of which is transmitted to the controller responsible for controlling the light.
For the passage of information, a special range of radio frequencies is allocated (usually 315, 433, 868 MHz). The power of radio transmitters for such devices is 10 milliwatts, which is regulated by law.
The appearance of the standard remote control used for devices operating over the air. By pressing the command button, you can use up to 30 channels at the same time, but only one will work, which receives its address in the message
Despite a small indicator, the range of the devices is quite extensive: in open areas it reaches 100 meters, and in spaces with obstacles - up to 25 meters.
Such a range of the device (it can be enhanced by repeaters and other devices), as well as the ability to overcome obstacles are the main reasons for the prevalence of radio switches, which are used both in everyday life and in industrial and administrative institutions.
The scheme of operation of radio frequency devices
To transmit a radio signal, the following set of equipment is required:
- battery (ordinary batteries);
- remote controller connected to the load and the network;
- a remote control reminiscent of a remote control for a video or television device. There are pocket minipools or keyfob devices with 2-6 buttons; similar devices are used to control a small group of devices.
The remote control controller is mounted in a wall, a lighting fixture (chandelier glass) or under a suspended ceiling.
Such a device is compatible with various types of lamps: incandescent, halogen, luminescent (ordinary and compact), ordinary and linear LEDs, regardless of whether they are located singly or in groups.
In addition to conventional remote controls, there are also wall-mounted radio transmitters with compact parameters and a limited number of command buttons. Such devices are attached to vertical surfaces with special holders or even with tape
During radio control, the signal is transmitted in the form of a packet of information: it contains a command, the address of the device to which the instruction is intended, and also a checksum. Radio waves are received immediately by all receiving devices, however, only the device for which the command is intended responds due to the address.
The transmitted checksum is used to verify the information: the amount sent by the transmitter must match the number calculated by the receiver. If the results diverge, the device does not work.
For stable error-free operation, each command is transmitted to the transmitters repeatedly (at least three times), which somewhat slows down the system’s operational efficiency. The radio switches usually also have a button that allows you to turn off the remote control and control the device in manual mode.
Mobile or Internet control
In modern devices, the function of adjusting the lighting using a smartphone or mobile phone may be provided. In this case, control is performed via the Internet using special applications that are installed on a smartphone or computer. Typically, the software is part of the kit that came with the device when purchased.
Simplified light source control using modern mobile devices. The use of this option is only possible with the Internet
Such devices have a large, almost unlimited range, but require the presence of Wi-Fi or other access to the global network. Using phones and smartphones, you can turn on / off the light, adjust its intensity, set special modes for devices (standard, custom).
Devices for turning off the light, equipped with remote controls, may also have additional functions, which include:
- the ability to adjust the level of light intensity;
- specially installed stationary button that allows you to find the lost remote control;
- equipped with a timer, light sensor or motion.
It is only important to remember that each additional option increases the cost of the device.
Remote control system selection
When choosing a device with remote control, you need to pay attention to a number of factors. It should be checked whether the power of the power unit corresponds to a similar indicator of the lighting device, as well as to the voltage required to power the switch. The latter should match the number of volts in the network to which you plan to connect the remote device.
The device of a modern remote switch with a number of additional functions: response to moving objects, protection against natural phenomena and others
It is also advisable to assess the need for additional functions that models are often equipped with: on the one hand, they significantly expand the scope of the device, and on the other hand, in specific situations they often remain unclaimed.
Finally, the design of the device, its shape, color, size, the presence of additional illumination, and other factors are of particular importance.
Advantages and disadvantages of remote control devices
Devices that allow you to control lighting using the remote control have certain pros and cons. The most important advantage is ease of installation and ease of connection: installation of the device does not require special knowledge.
Comfort in operation and the possibility of smooth adjustment of lighting devices attracts attention. In some models there is also a programming function of the device, with which you can set the "presence effect".
In this case, the device will turn on / off automatically at a certain time, which can be useful in an empty apartment.
As a rule, manufacturers produce a set of equipment necessary for the possibility of remote adjustment of lighting devices. The power unit must be connected to an existing power supply.
The use of remote control devices helps to reduce electricity consumption, as well as extend the life of various types of lamps. In addition, the remote switch makes it possible to simultaneously control from a single remote control multiple light sources or even other devices.
The disadvantages of such devices include false or spontaneous triggering; weak radio signal that may not pass through the obstacle; possible effects on pacemakers or hearing aids.
Open circuit breakers may not work properly due to precipitation. In addition, the remote control may run out of batteries at the most inopportune moment.
Connection of remote switches
The installation diagram of such devices often depends on the bulbs with which the device will work, as well as on other factors, so before starting assembly, you should carefully study the instructions that came with the model.
As a rule, products are designed for a standard voltage of 220 volts, however, with specific requirements of the lamp, this indicator can be underestimated.
When connecting any model of circuit breaker with a remote control, safety rules must be observed. Do not touch exposed wires without turning off the power.
If the system includes a voltage-reducing device, you first need to mount the control unit, and then the transformer. When a button is pressed on the remote control, the power unit supplies power either directly to the bulb or to a step-down transformer (depending on the light source). Most often, this scheme is used when lighting rooms with LEDs.
Depending on the model, the power unit may have one or several channels: the latter option allows you to simultaneously control multiple devices.
Experts recommend connecting the remote device through a traditional mechanical switch, which can be used if the remote control device fails.
Overview of popular DV models
Similar electrical equipment is produced by manufacturers in different countries.
Popular Wookee Radio Switches
Remote devices manufactured by this company consist of a kit including a radio signal receiving unit and a remote control. For comfortable use, a holder is also included in the kit. The holes specially made on it make it easy to attach this part to a vertical surface with ordinary screws.
The models are equipped with two switches, so that the devices can operate with different electrical networks. The maximum load in each can reach 500 watts. The radius of the apparatus is 100 meters in open space and 20 meters indoors. For the device to work correctly, it is recommended to install it together with the relay in the junction box.
“Nootehnika” - based on infrared waves
A well-known Belarusian company produces a line of switches with remote control based on infrared radiation "Sapphire". The models presented in the series are made of high quality polymers that are predominantly white.
Sapphire brand remote switches are available in a wide range. Their action is based on the principle of exposure to infrared radiation. Models differ in both design and technical specifications.
Products are equipped with dimmers that allow you to adjust the power of the energy flow, which extends the life of the lamps. The parameters set during the last power-up are saved when the device is restarted, and this reduces the time for choosing the desired brightness parameter.
Many models provide a function of simulating the presence in the owner’s house, associated with the periodic turning off / on of lamps in the house. The disadvantages of the models of this company include low-sensitivity sensors, which makes manual control difficult: for correct operation, all manipulations must be performed with the palm of your hand.
German quality and design by the Jung brand
A well-known German company manufacturing electrical products pays attention to both a high-quality mechanism and an impeccable design.
Models of remote light switches manufactured at the enterprises of this company have a standard set of functions, high build quality, the use of first-class parts and accessories. A wide range of variously designed products allows you to choose a model that perfectly fits into the most sophisticated interior.
The company’s catalog contains anthracite instruments (with black polished surfaces), bright models made of acrylic and colored glass, universal products of a traditional shape made of steel and aluminum, democratic devices made of plastic.
A separate series combines devices with protection against moisture, which are intended for use in rooms with a high content of water vapor, for example, in bathrooms.
Practical Master Kit models
The most popular devices of this brand are remote switches MK343 and MK344. The first option allows you to remotely switch over two independent radio channels (allowable power of each 300 watts).
Moreover, if the power unit is equipped with a radiator, the device can withstand a power of 1000 watts. To control the device using a transmitter-key fob, equipped with four buttons.
A more advanced modification is the MK344 model, which provides not only on / off, but also smooth adjustment of light intensity through two separate channels.
All functions can be performed using 4 buttons on the remote control: two of them serve to supply the load, and the remaining two to control the brightness of the lamps.
Compact and easy to use SOSO
The company specializes in producing small size wireless switches. Such devices that can operate with high power (up to 3.5 kW) can be placed in the mounting box behind a power switch or socket.
A compact remote device that has the size and shape of a conventional lamp.The original configuration allows you to place the device in a regular chandelier holder. No wiring required
The power unit in this case is mounted as follows. Selecting the appropriate load indicator, you must turn off the power supply. Like a conventional switch, a power block is installed, which must be connected to phase and zero.
The diagram shows the installation in the mounting box of the SOSO ACM-1000 radio switch. The wires are connected using terminal blocks; twisting is not recommended
The network phase wire (brown) passes through the terminal block and is fed to the L-terminal of the power unit, while the zero wire is attached to terminal N. The socket, in turn, is connected to the block output terminals N and L, after which the device can be installed on it .
It is also important to activate the command memorization mode, for which it is necessary to press the corresponding button. After that, you need to give a signal from the radio remote control. An indicator of remembering this information is the double blinking of the LED.
The following article, fully devoted to this interesting issue, will familiarize you with the rules and guidelines for choosing a wireless light switch.
The video below contains an overview of the device of the remote lighting control model:
Detailed instructions for connecting a two-channel remote control to the chandelier:
Using a variety of light switches with remote control panels, you can remotely control the operation of lighting devices. Such devices increase the standard of living, increase the longevity of the luminaires and reduce the cost of electricity.
A wide range of devices of this type allows you to choose a model that meets the needs and capabilities of the user, and the ease of installation contributes to the independent installation of the product with minimal time and effort.
Tell us about how you selected a switch with a remote control for arranging your own apartment / house. Perhaps you have useful technological nuances that will be useful to site visitors. Please write comments in the block form below, ask questions, publish photos on the topic of the article.