What should be included in a networked lighting controls system?

The anatomy of an advanced lighting controls system can seem tricky


A networked lighting control system consists of dimmable drivers or ballasts, accessory devices such as sensors and manual overrides, power controllers (which may be the driver or ballast), and supporting hardware and software used for system programming, communications, and data storage, according to an article from Building Operating Management on the FacilitiesNet website.

Controllers are connected via dedicated control wiring or radio signals to build a network in which addressable control points can be controlled and programmed individually or in groups. The system may be luminaire-, room-, building-, or campus-based.

Luminaire-based. Some manufacturers package control systems with LED luminaires to offer luminaire-based solutions. A controllable LED driver and sensors are embedded in each luminaire. 

Room-based. The majority of installed systems are room-based, in which lighting controls are installed as part of luminaires or remotely across a room and act as a single autonomous lighting control system. Installation is often plug and play for simplicity. 

Building-based. In terms of features and benefits, centralized building-based control systems are the most robust option. The advantage of this system is in the ability to program layered control strategies in detail, measure energy information for later retrieval and analysis, and monitoring to support maintenance operations. 

Read the article.



September 25, 2019


Topic Area: Energy and Power , Information Technology


Recent Posts

How Backup Power Needs Vary Across Healthcare Settings

Manufacturers discuss how evolving codes, technologies and care settings shape healthcare backup power strategies.


Flexible Design Strategies Help OhioHealth Maximize Clinical Space

Doing more with less was key to the renovated facility’s design.


New Bass Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases Opens

The new space not only offers more exam rooms but also features 15 private infusion bays to allow privacy for all patients and their caregivers during treatment.


Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Daytona Beach Opens

Hospital amenities include all private patient rooms, a spacious therapy gym featuring advanced rehabilitation technologies, an activities of daily living suite and more.


What Healthcare Facilities Can Learn from a $49 Million Window Failure

A major window system failure at the University of Iowa’s Children’s Hospital sparked a costly replacement project – and a $49.4 million arbitration win.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.