[ Technical: FAQs ] Need to know
Each issue, we answer a selection of members’ most frequently asked questions, providing expert guidance and tips. Here, Giuliano Digilio of the ECA and Richard Whitbread of Lutron Lighting look at dimming low energy bulbs
a lamp it is worth checking with lamp fitting providers as to what they expect. Customers will associate dimmable with what they have come to expect from tungsten light sources, so clarity on the dimming potential of the lamp from the outset is essential.
Can halogens be directly replaced with LED light sources and still be dimmable? Again, there is no simple answer to this question! The first thing to check is whether the LED light source that you are using to replace the halogen lamp is dimmable. If this is a ‘yes’, then you will need to take into account the minimum and maximum power handling of the dimmer, which should be marked on the outer casing of the dimmer itself. A word of advice is, if you are unsure, then check with the lamp manufacturer which light control systems they recommend for dimming the lamp in question.
What are LED drivers and how easy are they to install?
LED drivers are very similar to low voltage transformers. The 230v side is the same as
traditional transformers. However, the output side can differ. Some LED drivers require the fittings to be connected in series, rather than the traditional individual cable per lamp or lamps, and the LED driver itself may have control cables as well as a 230v feed. Dependent on the control method used (0-10v, DMX or DALI), a different control cabling will be required in conjunction with the usual 230v feed.
What are some of the things I need to look out for when installing a lighting control system that
controls LEDs? For a start, look at the maximum and minimum loads on the system, and ensure that they are
Is it possible to dim CFLs and LEDs?
In short, yes. However, there is a big BUT in this simple answer; there are a few variables that
could turn ‘yes’ into a ‘no’. Here are some things that need to be considered when looking to dim CFLs and LEDs: n Are the fittings and lamps dimmable? Some are, but some aren’t; and n The definition of dimmable can be interpreted in many ways: is a lamp classed as dimmable if it can be adjusted between 80 per cent and 30 per cent, or should it be between 100 per cent and 0 per cent? This definition is not always clear, so when installing
The definition of dimmable can be interpreted in many ways
within suitable tolerances for the LEDs you want to use. Also, think through which control method you want to use. You will also need to take into account what dimming performance the lamp and fitting provide and whether they will meet customers’ expectations. It is also worth noting that LEDs and CFLs have different light characteristics to low voltage lamps, so even if the light level is stated as the same on the fitting, it may give a different perception to the end user compared to the original lamp source.
n For further information on how to control and dim low energy lamps successfully and navigate your way through the minefield, contact Lutron on 0207 702 0657 or visit
www.lutron.com/europe
November 2011 ECA Today 63
©2011 LUTRON ELECTRONICS,INC.
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