The DRL control unit allows you to use high beam devices as daytime running lights. By converting the brightness, the most optimal is achieved - 30-40%. Due to the low power of the glow and the specifics of the direction of the light flux, the headlights do not blind pedestrians and oncoming drivers. Also, movement during daylight hours with the use of navigation lights is one of the requirements of traffic rules.
Benefits of using DRLs:
- The system starts automatic operation after starting the engine.
- The brightness of the glow, as well as some modes (for example, delayed start) are programmable.
- All settings are stored in the device's memory.
- Lamps light up smoothly.
- When using the system, the regular operation of the high beam is maintained.
- The DRL control unit turns off automatically when the dimensions or high beam are turned on, as well as when the parking brake is applied.
The system operates in two modes - winter and summer. The unit is used in the head light circuit with incandescent lamps.
Select DRL
All auto lighting devices must comply with the standards. In addition, only reliable systems can be installed on a vehicle. The most popular among them are Philips DRL control units. Before purchasing, you should pay attention to the quality of the case, the service life and operation of the devices.
The package must be present:
- Instruction.
- Fasteners.
- Connecting wires.
Branded lamps emit daylight (i.e., their color range is 5000-6000 K). At night, running lights can complement the role of marker lights.
It should be remembered that low beam should only be used at night. It is forbidden to use DRLs separately at dusk or at night.
Installation of running lights
- To begin with, measurements are made and the location of the lamps on the transport is determined. Most navigation lights are recommended to be installed at a distance of 350 to 1500 mm from the surface. The distance from the side of the car to the headlight must be at least 400 mm. The distance between the inner edges of the surface of the lanterns is at least 600 mm. During the installation process, it is very important to correctly determine the angle of installation of the mounting bracket of the lamps. The horizontal tilt angle should not exceed 10◦.
- After measurements, it is necessary to remove the grille from the car and fix the mounting brackets of the lamps on it. These elements can be installed above or below the bumper without having to remove it.
- Connecting the DRL control unitmade through the mounting bracket. Under no circumstances should the lights be inserted into the bracket at this stage.
- Next, place the control unit in the engine compartment. The most suitable place is near the battery. The block is connected according to a primitive scheme: the red wire is connected to the positive terminal, the black one to the negative terminal. The orange wire is connected to the dipped beam or dimensions. The success of the operation will be indicated by the indicator - blue light means that the connection is correct.
- After passing the previous stages, the lights are connected to the control unit.
- First you need to fix the control unit, and then fix the lamp on the mounting bracket. When finished, you need to fix the wires and install the grate with the lantern in place.
Daytime running lights for some car models
Some vehicles are equipped with daytime running lights. For example, in the DRL control unit for Opel-Astra-N, daytime running lights are equipped in fog lamp plugs. The main difference of the system in this vehicle is the absence of the same light fog devices.
Daytime lights "Opel" are equipped with LEDs. It is also possible to use them at night in conjunction with the main lighting.
Such devices have a long service life. DRL can be connected to the ignition system or mounted directly into the lighting start system.
It is possible to mount running lights on a bumper or radiatorgrid.
Characteristics of board-based navigation lights
The principle of operation of the DRL control unit on the "Arduino" is as follows: when the automatic mode is turned on, the lights start and turn off automatically. After receiving a signal from the tachometer, the “automatic” mode is activated, the parking lights and the diode light up. After the signal disappears (after 10 seconds), the mode is turned off and the lights go out.
When a signal from the speed sensor appears, lights (DRL or dipped beam) turn on. After the signal disappears, they turn off (after about 2 minutes).
When the unit is on, the integrity of the dipped beam lamps is monitored, as well as the voltage on board. The processes are accompanied by light and sound alarms (they can be turned off on the control panel). When turn signals are connected, a special sound signal will be created.
Complete set of daytime lights and the possibility of their use
Standard kit contains:
- Controller of the DRL control unit.
- 2 LED strings.
- Recommendations for installation and use.
- Connectors.
Some tapes, such as 8-diode, can be used at any time of the day. When the main light is turned on, the tapes do not go out, but go into the side lighting mode. Due to their small size, they are easy to mount even on compact cars. The built-in indicator will suggest the need to perform a particular action.
The color temperature of 8-diode strips is 6000 K.
Important! When choosing a DRL, attention should be paid to the quality of workmanship, because non-original copies can harm the safety of the driver and others.
Special cases of DRL installation
Special options are selected for cars where the manufacturer does not provide for the standard installation of the DRL control unit:
- Installation in the headlight.
- Bumper mounting.
- Mounting on the radiator grille.
The above methods are suitable for almost all vehicles. When installing, the standards for the operation of running lights are taken into account.
The first method is the most time-consuming. To install the lights, the headlight is completely removed and disassembled, then installation is performed. Upon completion, the entire kit is installed in place.
When installed in a bumper, spotlights are most often used. Mounting is carried out using the plunging method.
Mounting lights into the grille is a very complex process. When installing DRL, it is required to ensure the tightness of the housing. In addition, do not forget about the standards - you should observe the distance between the headlights.
How to make DIY lights?
To create a DRL control unit with your own hands, you need to purchase:
- LED strip.
- Aluminum plates.
- Fog lights.
The manufacturing process consists of the following steps:
- To startyou need to disassemble the headlights.
- Next, soften the sealant and separate the glass from the platform.
- After disassembly, tint the windows.
- After disassembly, disconnect the wires, bar, diffuser, glass, body.
- The substrates for LEDs are cut out of the plates.
- Finished plates are attached to the inner body of the diffuser with sealant.
- Light elements are made from LED strip.
- The finished tapes are attached to silicone sealant, after which soldering is performed.
- At the end of the process, tinted glass is attached.
- Diffusers are made by casting from epoxy resin or by milling plexiglass.
What should I pay attention to when installing?
When installing a homemade DRL control unit, you should pay attention to the following steps:
- Altering the standard scheme for turning on lighting devices to start when ignited (for this, thyristors of any kind can be used. The main criterion is the allowable current - 0.3 A, while the power should be 0.25 W, and the resistance - 10 kOhm).
- Mandatory dismantling of the zero contact of the relay winding, which is responsible for lifting the windows.
- Insulating the dismantled contact.
- It is connected to the power window relay coil.
- Mounting the circuit in the relay case.
The correct setting is when the running lights turn on simultaneously with the engine start. It is normal for the lights to go out some time after the car stops.
Featureslighting controllers
- The controller of the DRL 8 in 1 control unit provides control of the system without the participation of the driver.
- Its installation does not require connection to sensors, relays, etc.
- The controller automatically adapts to the vehicle.
- It is also equipped with protection against short circuit and overcurrent in the load circuit, arbitrary shutdown at high loads.
- The range includes 12 and 24 V versions. Suitable for all types of cars.
- Strong housing, reliable sealing and quality connections ensure reliability and durability.
- Long life is achieved by the absence of rapidly aging elements.
Important! Before purchasing a DRL unit, you should familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of the car. In some cases, traffic rules prohibit the installation and operation of additional lighting devices. Colored running lights are also not allowed.
Incorrect installation can have a negative effect on the car's electronics.
