Lighting timers allow you to automatically control the on and off of the light using predefined program settings. Otherwise, such devices are called time relays. Typical examples of use include dimming the lighting in an aquarium, on a stairwell or in a garden area after sunset. In addition, in any case, this kind of smart devices allows you to save electricity without human intervention. Lighting timers, as a rule, are a plastic monoblock with a set of buttons for control or a touch screen.
Classification of appliances
There are two main types with different operating principles - electronic and electromechanical. In the first case, there is a special microprocessor inside the case that is responsible for processing all commands, and in the second case, reading occurs due to the presence of a mechanism withmains powered synchronous motor.
By operating period, lighting timers are divided into the following types:
- per diems;
- weekly;
- astronomical;
- universal;
- countdown;
- with random switching.
The installation method also has several variations, including fixed, mounted in a shield, box, or on a special DIN rail. Classification according to working conditions divides such devices depending on the degree of protection from external influences and the rated power of consumers that can be connected to the device.
Features of timers on electronic relays
This class is programmable. Commands are entered using a front panel with a number of controls such as buttons or a touch screen. The device is powered by a built-in battery or battery pack.
Among the advantages of this type, it should be noted a large selection of available modifications with interval adjustment of lighting modes, a variety of installation and installation options, as well as a good level of performance. Users highly appreciate the sufficient information content of the set settings on the display, the ability to record their own developments in the internal memory of the device and save them even in the absence of power.
Typically, an electronic timer for lighting allows you to create even ultra-short switching ranges of up to oneminutes. The accuracy of the readings is definitely higher than that of devices with an electromechanical relay.
Features of timers on an electromechanical relay
This variety has only two options for functioning - weekly and daily. The timer can be programmed here by operating the graduated wheel and several levers. All elements are usually located on the front panel of the device. Lighting timers of this type are installed either permanently in a rail or a special box, or simply plugged into an outlet.
This option should be chosen by those who are not so important indicators of the smallest switching range or setting programs with an accuracy of one second. With all this, ease of setup for many can be a completely decisive positive argument when choosing. However, low accuracy and possible program failures due to the lack of an additional power source will become the main problems of such a device in the future. In addition, gear teeth wear out over time, which will affect the performance of the adjustment wheel.
Working principle and application
The principle of operation may depend on the specific type of device. If we consider the controller using the example of an astronomical timer, then the essence of its work is that the readings of the built-in clock are compared with the astronomical table. Information is transmitted to two contact relays. The first of these includes a timer for the light with an eye only toown built-in instrument readings. The second relay performs the same functions, however, it is also able to remove the load from the device for a certain user-defined time period.
Timers for street lighting are widely used in the security sector and emergency lighting of non-residential buildings. Also, such devices are used by summer residents in the areas in front of the house. Advertising agencies are installing light timers on their billboards for better display at night or overcast weather.
What do I need to do before switching on?
As a first step, it is recommended to choose a suitable power supply and connection scheme. If the load values are very large, then it is best to use special contactors. Next, the device is installed in its place. A switch is also placed in the lighting control panel. After using cables or wires, you need to power the device into the electrical network and connect it to the lamps that it will control.
After all procedures are completed, the lighting control timer is energized. Experts advise to carry out a technical inspection and scheduled diagnostics at least once every six months. First of all, you should check the reliability of fastening the device itself, as well as the connections with the elements of the electrical circuit and terminal blocks.
Options and order of connection
You can power the device through a three-wire or four-wire electrical network. For each timerturning on the lighting, a special adapter for the required amount is attached. The first scheme allows you to assemble a circuit in which there will be no additional lighting load immediately after the switch itself. In the second case, fixtures and lamps will be connected immediately after it.
The connection process is quite simple, it does not require any special skills or a call to the house of a specialist. You can fix the modular timer, for example, in a DIN rail. This is done using special latches, if any, on the device. This option is available only in the case of a modular design. External buttons are connected based on the previously selected scheme for connecting to the electrical network.
Contact features
When powered by three wires, pay attention to their colors. The blue conductor from the outdoor light timer serves to connect to zero. Also, if desired, any lighting device is connected with this color. The brown conductor is connected directly to the mains phase. Red is required to control the sensor. It must be led to the lamp from the regulator that is available.
Sometimes there is also a fourth wire that acts as a ground. When it is connected, it becomes possible to prevent a voltage drop on the case of the device itself in advance. The general connection diagram will not change in any way, however, grounding will need to be connected to the lamp itself, bypassing the regulator. In rare cases, manufacturers may change the labeland, accordingly, a set of colors. Then you will need to carefully study the installation and operation manual attached to the device.
Optional step by step instructions
The information is relevant for those who decide to attach the device to the wall, which, in turn, is the most common mounting option.
- Almost always on the case of the lighting off timer there is a diagram for connecting the device to the electrical network. You need to study it carefully.
- The second step is to choose the optimal location for the device. Recommendations are given for each device separately. In addition, the main options are outlined above.
- In accordance with the diagram on the device, it is necessary to connect the wires to the lighting device to be controlled.
- The fourth step is to configure the device itself. The program is set according to personal preferences. The convenience and accuracy of the setting will depend on the selected timer type.
- In the event that remote elements come with the sensors, they must be connected using wires.
Connection Tips
Installing and configuring lighting timers involves a number of specific nuances, the most important of which are listed below.
- If several lamps are planned in the system, then without a special controller they will not be able to work correctly. This element will be located incircuits between the timer itself and the lighting fixtures.
- The power characteristics of the time relay must match those of the network. Otherwise, there is a high chance of fire or damage to the device.
- Each device can be connected in different ways. The most acceptable one should be determined at the stage of purchase.
- If the sensor is guided by the level of illumination, then you should adjust the limit of its operation. By default, as a rule, the level is set to 5 lux. Thus, the light will turn on even before darkness falls on the street.
- This system can be successfully combined with motion sensors and other elements for protection and warning.
Energy saving question
For outdoor lighting, there are two main methods that allow more practical use of resources. The first of these is the use of special lamps with a higher luminous efficiency or lamps with an increased level of efficiency. The second option involves setting up existing equipment. Properly managing the lighting off timer is the key to saving energy. Experts recommend a mode in which the light works after sunset and by the time people move around the area, and remains inactive during the period of inactivity or after sunrise.
