Scheme for connecting a pass-through switch and a dimmer. Dimmer (Dimmer)

Sometimes it becomes necessary to change the intensity of lighting. They do this with the help of light dimmers, which are often called "dimmers". Most of the devices are mounted instead of a conventional switch - directly into the same mounting box, and many look similar. How to connect a dimmer with your own hands? Simply - into the phase wire in series with the load. The installation schemes of the regulators are simple, you can handle it yourself.

Purpose and functions

Dimmers (in English dimmer) are used in everyday life to adjust the brightness of lamps, the temperature of heating devices (soldering irons, irons, electric stoves, etc.). These devices are also called dimmers or dimmers, although this is only one of the possible applications. They work most effectively with incandescent lamps, allowing them to extend their service life, since if there is a dimmer in the power circuit, a minimum current is supplied to the lamp when turned on. And as you know, it is the starting throws that cause them to fail.

Do not use dimmers with transformer or switching power supplies (TVs, radios, etc.). This is due to the peculiarities of the operation of the device - at the output, the signal does not look like a sinusoid, but only part of it (the tops are cut off with keys). When such power is supplied, the equipment fails.

Note! Conventional dimmers cannot be used with fluorescent lamps. Such a bunch will either not work at all, or the lamp will flash. To work with these sources, there are special devices with a different scheme. In general, conventional dimmers can only control incandescent or LED lamps. When energy-saving ones are connected to them, the “blinking” of light begins, and halogen ones are simply not regulated. But you can also adjust the brightness of the light for these types of lamps - there are special dimmers, but they are more expensive.

The very first dimmers were electromechanical and could only control the brightness of incandescent lamps. Modern ones can provide a number of additional functions:

turning off the light on a timer;
turning on and off the lighting at a certain time (presence effect, used for long departures);
acoustic control (by clap or voice);
possibility of remote control;
various modes of operation of the lamps - flashing, changing the temperature of the light, etc.;
the possibility of embedding in the "smart home" system.

The simplest dimmers still only adjust the brightness of the lighting, but this function turns out to be very useful.

Device and types

Dimmers are made on the basis of a different element base. All of them have their own characteristics and disadvantages. And in order to understand what a dimmer is and how it works, you need to figure out what a particular device is made of. So, there may be options:

When choosing a device, it is not so important to know what type it belongs to, how important it is to take into account the nature of the load to which it will be connected (incandescent and LED or fluorescent and housekeepers).

By type of execution, dimmers are:

Modular for DIN rail mounting. You can connect this type of dimmer with incandescent lamps, halogen lamps with a step-down transformer. For ease of use, they have a remote control button or a key switch. Such devices are convenient, for example, for controlling the illumination of the yard and the entrance gate from the house, the landing or the front door.
Dimmers on a cord. These are mini-devices that allow you to adjust the brightness of the glow of lighting fixtures that are plugged into an outlet - table lamps, wall lamps, floor lamps. It is only worth knowing that they are compatible mainly with incandescent lamps.
For installation in a mounting box. They are placed in the mounting box under the switch (in the same box). Compatible with incandescent, LED, halogen step-down and electronic transformer. They are controlled by a button that is placed on top of the device or connected to the smart home system.
Monoblock. In appearance, it is very similar to a conventional switch, it is placed in the same mounting box, it is possible instead of a switch. They are included in the phase circuit break (diagrams below). This type has a large species diversity. Which lamps such a dimmer can be connected to should be indicated on the case, but if it is an electronic circuit, then they work with incandescent lamps and some halogen and LED lamps (which are written dimmable or have an appropriate sign). Can be managed:

In private houses and apartments, monoblock dimmers are most often installed. In the house, a modular design can still be useful - to change the brightness of the lighting in the local area with the ability to control it from home. For such cases, there are models that allow you to control the illumination from two places - pass-through dimmers (they work according to the principle).

Monoblock dimmer connection diagram

Most often, monoblock dimmers are independently connected. They are put in place of a switch. With a single-phase network, the connection diagram is the same as on a conventional switch - in series with the load - in a phase break. This is a very important nuance. Dimmers are placed only in the gap of the phase wire. If you connect the dimmer incorrectly (into the neutral gap), the electronic circuit will fail. In order not to be mistaken, before installation, it is necessary to determine exactly which of the wires is the phase and which is the neutral (zero).

If we are talking about installing a dimmer in place of the switch, then you must first disconnect the wires from the switch terminals (with the power turned off on the panel), turn on the machine and use a tester, multimeter or indicator (screwdriver with LED) to find the phase wire (when touching the probe to the phase on the device some readings appear or the LED lights up, and there should be no potentials on the neutral (zero) wire).

The found phase can be marked in some way - put a line on the insulation, stick a piece of electrical tape, colored tape, etc. Then the power is turned off again (the input switch on the shield) - you can connect a dimmer.

The connection diagram of the dimmer is simple: the found phase wire is fed to the input of the device, from the output the wire goes to the load (in the figure to the junction box, and from there to the lamp).

There are two types of dimmers - in one, the input and output contacts are signed. In this case, you must follow the instructions and apply the phase to the signed input. On other devices, the inputs are not signed. In them, the phase connection is arbitrary.

Consider how to connect a dimmer with a rotary dial. First you need to take it apart. To do this, take out the disk - you need to pull it towards you. Under the disc is a button, which is fixed with a clamping nut.

We unscrew this nut (you can use your fingers) and remove the front panel. Under it is a mounting plate, which we will then screw to the wall. The dimmer is disassembled and ready for installation.

We connect it according to the scheme (see below): we start the phase wire at one input (if there is an input marking, then to it), we connect the conductor to the second input, which goes to the lamp / chandelier.

It remains to fix. We insert the connected regulator into the mounting box, fix it with screws.

Then we impose the front panel, fix it with the nut removed earlier and, last of all, install the rotary disk. Dimmer installed. Turn on the power, check the work.

How to connect a dimmer to an LED lamp or strip

There are no fundamental differences in the connection method. The only peculiarity is that the dimmer is placed in front of the controller for LED lamps or strips (see diagram). There are no other differences.

Everything is exactly the same: the dimmer is placed in a break in the phase wire, but its output is fed to the input of the led lamp or tape controller.

Installation of the dimmer Fibaro FGD211 with a switch

The peculiarity of this model is that it is compatible with the "smart home" system and is controlled from a computer. There are devices that are controlled with a regulator installed in a convenient place.

Dimmers that are installed in the junction box to the switch are also placed in the gap of the phase wire, but the installation process itself is slightly different. The switch is also removed, we find the phase, we mark the wire. Next, we take a dimmer, connect the terminals 0 and N with a jumper (a piece of copper wire in a sheath). We connect wire segments 7-10 cm long to contacts S1 and Sx.

The next step is to connect the regulator to the wiring. We install the phase wire on the connector with the letter L, zero - on N. We fill the connected device into the mounting box (we bend the wires).

We screw the switch frame into place, then put on the front cover and keys, program the system and check the operation.

If you need to connect a dimmer controlled by a button, there will be two more contacts in it, to which you will need to connect a remote button.

Features of selection and operation

When choosing a dimmer, you need to pay attention not only to what lamps it can work with and what functions it has. It is also necessary to look at what total load it is designed for. A maximum of one light dimmer can "pull" 1000 watts of load, but most models are designed for 400-700 watts. Eminent manufacturers, depending on the power, have a significant difference in price. Chinese products do not have a tangible difference in cost.

name	Power	Maximum current	Compatibility	Price	Manufacturer
Volsten V01-11-D11-S Magenta 9008	600 W	2 A	Incandescent lamps	546 rub	Russia/China
TDM Valdai RL	600 W	1 A	Incandescent lamps	308 rub	Russia/China
MAKEL Mimoza	1000 W/IP 20	4 A	Incandescent lamps	1200 rub	Türkiye
Lezard Mira 701-1010-157	1000W/IP20	2 A	Incandescent lamps	770 rub	Türkiye/China

The second point to remember is that dimmers work with a minimum load. Those, in most cases, have a minimum of 40 watts, some thousanders have 100 watts. If the connected lamps are of lower power, they may flicker or not light up. This happens when LEDs are used instead of incandescent bulbs. In this case, one of the lamps is left old (incandescent), which will provide the required minimum load.

Other features of operation are related to compatibility. As already mentioned, conventional dimmers cannot work with fluorescent lamps (including energy-saving ones). Halogen ones simply do not react to changes in the shape of the pulse. And if you decide to replace incandescent bulbs with more economical ones, most likely you will have to change the dimmer as well.

Relatively recently, the only available option for adjusting the brightness of lighting fixtures was to install a device called a rheostat. At the same time, the power of such rheostats was approximately at the same level as the load. Of course, one could turn a blind eye to this, however, with a decrease in the brightness of the lighting, the power consumption did not decrease in any way - the excess power was simply dissipated. Therefore, rheostats were used to control brightness only where there was a need for this, for example, in theaters.

However, the situation has changed dramatically with the appearance on the market of semiconductors, known as triac and dinistor. It is on the basis of them that modern ones are designed, allowing you to quickly and conveniently adjust the brightness of the lighting.

Video - How the dimmer works

A standard dimmer is connected like an ordinary one, i.e. to break the power supply circuit of the lighting device. The dimensions of the regulator in question and the fasteners for its installation in a niche also coincide with those of a simple switch. Therefore, anyone who has an idea of how to connect traditional light switches can handle the installation of a dimmer. The only important point: the outputs to the load and phase must be connected strictly in accordance with the diagram provided by the manufacturer.

All dimmers presented today can be divided into 2 large classes: rotary (they are also rotary) and push-button (electronic).

Table. Some types of dimmers

Types of dimmers	Explanations
Dimmer for incandescent lamps and for halogen lamps with a voltage level of 220 V	In this case, it is the magnitude of the applied voltage that determines the intensity of the glow of the lamp filament.
Dimmer for low voltage transformer powered halogen lamps	Responsible for converting the output voltage of the dimmer to the desired value. If the lamps are designed for a voltage of 12-24 V, then an electronic transformer is required to provide soft control of the current source.
LED dimmer (led dimmer) and dimmer for fluorescent lamps.	The task of a dimmer for LEDs is to quickly give the desired results and smoothly adjust the power of the light fluxes.
Touch dimmer	The main difference between the touch device (viko dimmer) is the ability to control the luminous flux with a barely noticeable touch on a certain area of the button. Can be equipped with an infrared receiver for remote control.
	Assumes easy rotation of the rotary element.
push dimmer	Assumes multiple key presses
Single dimmer	It can be used both for one lamp and for a number of light sources combined into a common group.
Group dimmer	To control multiple light sources at once.

Rotary controls are the most widely used. The control of the intensity of illumination by such devices is carried out by simply turning the knob in the desired direction. Push-button dimmers are more convenient and flexible in terms of controlling the brightness of light. Additionally, electronic dimmers allow you to connect buttons in parallel and control lighting from several different locations. In practice, the number of such places is limited to 3-5. In this case, the length of the wire should not exceed 10 m.

Also on the market is a group of devices that allow you to control the brightness of lighting remotely using a remote control. However, such dimmers are much more expensive than the analogs discussed above.

The most popular, as already noted, are rotary-type dimmers. That's what we'll cover in this guide.

Video - Simple LED lamp and dimmer

Features of the dimmer device and its connection diagram

Rotary dimmers from different manufacturers have the same device - only their quality differs. Also, certain differences may be present in the internal equipment of the regulators: the design of some of them includes additional elements that have a positive effect on the stability of the dimmer and improve the smoothness of dimming.

Dimmers work according to the following principle. In order for the lighting lamp to turn on, a current must pass through the triac of the dimmer. To do this, a certain voltage must appear between the electrodes of the mentioned semiconductor. It appears as follows.

When a positive half-wave occurs, the capacitor is charged by means of a potentiometer. In this case, the charge rate of the capacitor directly depends on the characteristics of the potentiometer. The key function of the potentiometer is to change the phase angle. When the voltage on the capacitor rises to a value sufficient to open the semiconductors of the dimmer, the triac opens. At this stage, its resistance decreases, which allows the lighting device to burn until the end of the half-wave. The negative half-wave behaves similarly to the positive one, because dinistor and triac are symmetrical, so the direction of the current for them is of no fundamental importance.

As a result, the voltage supplied to the load is “echoes” of half-waves following one after another at a frequency of about 100 Hz. It is because of this that flickering may appear when the lighting device is turned on at minimum brightness.

The parameters of the structural elements of the regulator can vary from different manufacturing companies, but the principle of operation of the devices practically does not change from this. The properties of resistors and capacitors only affect the characteristics of the ignition points, as well as the stability of the lighting device. So, the smallest brightness of light is provided at the minimum value of the resistance of the resistor, and the highest, respectively, at the maximum.

It is allowed to include any triacs in a practical circuit, taking into account the load power. However, the allowable voltage of the devices should not be less than 400V, because. the value of instantaneous voltage in domestic electrical networks can "jump" up to 350V.

Video - How to choose a dimmer

Connecting and operating a dimmer: what should everyone know?

Before you buy a dimmer and install it instead of a regular switch, read the important facts about the device in question.

Many users are mistaken in believing that installing a dimmer will significantly reduce lighting costs. In reality, with the minimum brightness of the lamps, the savings are unlikely to exceed 10-15%. The dimmer will simply dissipate the remaining "extra" energy.

Connection and operation of dimmers must be carried out in compliance with the following rules:

The controller must not be overheated. The maximum allowable air temperature in the room is +27 degrees;
the value of the load connected to the regulator must be at least 40 watts. At lower values, there is a significant reduction in the service life of both lighting fixtures and the regulator itself;
the dimmer can only be used in combination with lighting fixtures listed in the technical data sheet.

The considered regulators are designed to work with certain types of load. So, most dimmer models can only be used to control the brightness of halogen lamps and incandescent bulbs. It is impossible to use them in combination with LED lamps and most energy-saving lighting fixtures, because. this will cause them to break very quickly.

If you need to connect a dimmer to, buy a regulator model specially designed for this.

Be sure to first check with the store employee whether the purchased dimmer is designed to work in conjunction with the lighting sources in your home. Also make sure that the wattage of the regulator matches the total wattage of the fixtures in your home.

Instructions for installing a dimmer instead of a conventional switch

Replacing a traditional switch with a rotary control will not cause any difficulties, because. they are installed in the same way. You just need to carefully study the technology and follow the established sequence.

First step. We turn off the electricity supply and additionally make sure that it is absent using a special indicator screwdriver.

Second step. We remove the button of the installed switch.

Third step. We unscrew the screws that secure the decorative frame of the switch, and remove it.

Fourth step. We unscrew the fixing screws and take the mechanism out of the mounting box. We can install the dimmer in the same box.

Fifth step. We unscrew the electrical wires from the switch.

Sixth step. We see two free wires.

One of them (supply phase) is connected to the switch, the second - to the chandelier. We carefully study the diagram given in the instructions for the dimmer or on the cover of its case.

In the case of dimmers, as noted, you must strictly adhere to the connection procedure recommended by the manufacturer. We connect the phase cable (it is red in the diagram) to the dimmer terminal, signed as L-in. The next cable (it is orange in the diagram) is connected to the regulator terminal, signed L-out.

Seventh step. We insert the dimmer into the mounting box. To do this, carefully bend the wires, insert the regulator into the socket, tighten the spacer screws, attach the decorative frame, fix it with screws and install the adjusting wheel.

We connect the wires and insert the dimmer into the box

eighth step. We check the operation of the installed dimmer, after turning on the electricity supply. To check, turn the dimmer knob until it clicks in a counterclockwise direction - the lamps will not light up. We smoothly turn the regulator clockwise - after a similar click on the lamps, the voltage will gradually increase, as evidenced by a gradual increase in the brightness of the light.

The dimmer is connected and working properly. We can accept it for permanent operation.

Successful work!

Video - Dimmer connection diagram

Video - Connecting an LED strip to a mini dimmer

If you want to create an unusual lighting design in your home and save money on electricity bills along the way, learn how to connect a dimmer. This device allows you to smoothly adjust the voltage on halogen and conventional lamps.

In everyday life, the devices described by us are used to adjust the temperature of the operation of electric stoves, irons, soldering irons and other heating devices, as well as to adjust the brightness of the lamps. For this reason, dimmers are often referred to as dimmers.

Important point! The regulators in question must not be used with pulse and transformer devices (radios, old TVs). When you connect a dimmer to them, they will simply fail. But dimmers can be safely connected to any incandescent lamps and halogen lighting fixtures.

Dimmer for incandescent lamps

The device will protect them by supplying a minimum current to the bulbs when the electricity is turned on. Due to this, the lamps will work much longer (as you know, most often they burn out precisely because of starting power surges). Some modern dimmers not only regulate the degree, but can also perform other functions that make life easier and much more comfortable. Fancy dimmers can:

be controlled from the remote control or voice commands;
turn off and turn on the lamps according to a pre-set timer;
become part of the increasingly popular smart home systems;
change the temperature of the light in automatic mode, create the effect of flashing lighting.

It is clear that inexpensive dimmers can do none of the above. But with their main function - adjusting the level of illumination, they do an excellent job.

Rheostatic dimmers are considered the simplest and cheapest. Now they are used very rarely, as they are characterized by a low efficiency and inconvenience in use due to the fact that they get very hot during operation.

More modern are transistor, thyristor and triac mechanisms. They can have additional functions, are distinguished by high efficiency and at the same time affordable price. But such regulators are undesirable for use with household devices that put forward increased requirements for the type of power supply. Another disadvantage is the creation of electrical interference for other equipment.

Thyristor and transistor dimmers, despite these shortcomings, are the most popular. If you plan to replace a standard switch with a dimmer, buy just such devices. Without extra financial costs, you will have at your disposal a stably functioning device that can be connected correctly and quickly with your own hands.

transistor dimmer

If the financial issue is not of particular importance to you, you can purchase light control devices made on the basis of automatic transformers. They are capable of delivering an ideal current sine wave. Such devices are installed to regulate the operation of large and expensive household units.

Dimmers, in addition, are divided into different types according to their version. From this point of view, there are the following devices:

Modular - the best type of device for halogen and conventional incandescent lamps. They are mounted on a DIN rail directly in an apartment or home electrical panel. Modular fixtures are controlled using a key-type switch or by means of a remote button.
Installed in a box that is designed to mount a standard switch. These devices are controlled by a special button. It is integrated into the smart home system or brought to the surface of the box. Such dimmers are compatible with any kind of lamps (with the exception of fluorescent), as well as with electronic and step-down transformers.
Mini Regulators. They are commonly referred to as cord dimmers. They make it possible to control the operation of floor lamps, small sconces and table lighting fixtures. In most cases, cord adjusters are only compatible with incandescent bulbs.

The most widespread among household users are monoblock regulators. They are installed instead of a standard switch. We will talk about them.

Such dimmers come in various modifications. They differ from each other in terms of control. It can be:

Touch. Professionals call devices with this control option the most reliable in operation. In fact, there is nothing to break in them, since there are no mechanical elements in the regulators. You just need to lightly touch the dimmer screen to activate it.
Rotary. To turn off the lamp, you need to turn the device dial all the way to the left. A variation of such a dimmer is a rotary-push mechanism. The user needs to click on the device to turn it off or on. And the very setting of the required level of illumination is carried out by turning the dial.
Keyboard. It is outwardly impossible to distinguish such a dimmer from a conventional switch. You need to press a key to turn on the light and hold it down for a certain amount of time. As long as the key is pressed, the light intensity increases.

Monoblock rocker dimmer

An important nuance. Monoblock dimmers of various types can be connected to certain fixtures and lamps. On the packaging with a dimmer, it is always indicated with which equipment it can work.

The presence of a home master with minimal knowledge in the electrical field will allow him to correctly connect a monoblock dimmer in his home. There are no particular difficulties here. The main thing to remember is that the regulator is mounted exclusively in the break of the phase cable. Under no circumstances should the device be connected to a neutral break. If you make this mistake, you can immediately go buy a new dimmer. His electronic circuit will simply burn out.

Instead of a switch, the dimmer is installed as follows:

Turn off the electricity supply to the apartment in the power panel.
Disconnect the wires from the terminals of the installed switch and remove it.
Apply power to the shield, use a screwdriver with an LED, a multimeter or an electrical tester to determine the phase wire. Mark it in a way convenient for you (stick a piece of adhesive tape or electrical tape, put a mark with a pencil).
Now you can turn off the shield and proceed directly to the installation of the dimmer. It's easy to do. You need to apply the phase wire that you noted to the input of the regulator. From the output, it will go to the junction box (that is, to the load), and then to the lighting fixture itself.

Installing a dimmer

There are dimmers with signed output and input contacts. In them, it is imperative to supply a phase wire to the appropriate connector. If the contacts on the dimmer are not marked in a special way, the phase is fed to any of the available inputs.

After connecting the dimmer, you need to install it back into the socket, put a decorative trim and a potentiometer wheel on the dimmer (if you are mounting a turn-and-push or turn mechanism). All! You were able to correctly connect the dimmer to the switch. Use the installed device to your pleasure!

In bedrooms, experts advise installing a dimmer switch not instead of a standard switch, but in series with it. It is advisable to mount the dimmer itself right next to the bed (then you can adjust the lighting without getting up from it). And the old switch is left in its usual place - at the entrance to the bedroom. You will use it when entering and leaving the premises.

Installing a dimmer near the bed

If you want to control the lighting of a room from its different points, it is allowed to mount two regulators at once. In this case, you will need to connect the first and second terminals on the dimmer to each other and connect the phase to the third connector of any of the devices. The remaining output on the other dimmer will serve as a wire that goes to the load.

Finally, let's figure out how to properly connect a dimmer to LED (LED) lamps or strips. In fact, the procedure is carried out in the same way as in the case of connecting conventional lighting fixtures. But there is one caveat. You need to put the regulator right in front of the controller. That is, you need to do the following:

Connect a dimmer in phase break.
Connect the output of the device to the input of the controller.

Dimmers or dimmers serve to smoothly adjust the brightness level of artificial lighting, they also have almost all the ability to turn on / off. In this article, we will talk about models and their connection diagrams, suitable only for lamps and chandeliers with halogen or incandescent lamps.

Today, a lot of different models of dimmers for incandescent and halogen lamps are sold. Some of them have additional options for lighting control:

With the function of setting the program of time to turn on, turn off, etc.
Connection and control using the "smart home" system.
Smooth switching off of lamps.
Remote control with a remote control.
Voice control, clap, etc.

I recommend that you decide before buying which functions you need, for the extra, you should not overpay.
And it is especially necessary before starting electrical work to determine how and from what places you want to control the lighting in your room. Based on this, it will then be necessary to lay electrical cables for the implementation of your planned scheme.

Dimmer connection diagrams.

Next, we will consider all kinds of schemes for organizing lighting control in a room in your house or apartment. From the simplest to the most complex, allowing you to adjust and control the inclusion of halogen or incandescent lamps from different places in your room.

In principle, almost any man will be able to do all this with his own hands. The main thing is necessary always turn off the voltage from that section of the electrical wiring of the house or apartment where you will work. And make sure there is no phase with .

Schematic diagram of the connection of the dimmer.

Let's start with the most common and simplest circuit, consisting of one dimmer and one or more lamps connected in series to it. Just remember that the dimmer is placed only in the break of the phase wire(denoted by L), not zero (N).

To connect, you need to connect the electrical wire coming from the junction box to the terminal " L with an arrow up", and the second wire with the designation " ~ with an arrow at an angle.

This the simplest scheme, which, if necessary, allows you to quickly replace an ordinary switch with a dimmer.

Scheme No. 2 dimmer with a switch.

Often a slightly more complex, but very convenient circuit is used with an ordinary switch, which is connected to the break in the phase wire in front of the dimmer.

Often this type is used in bedrooms. It is very convenient when the switch is installed near the door, and the dimmer is near the bed. That allows you to adjust the brightness and turn on / off the artificial light without getting out of bed. And when you leave the room, you can turn off the lighting and turn it back on when you return with the same brightness level that was set.

Scheme No. 3 with two dimmers.

If necessary, you can easily install and connect dimmers in two different places in the room, which will control one lamp or chandelier.

To implement this method, it is necessary that three wires from each installation site come to one junction box.

The wiring diagram is simple the first and second contacts of both dimmers are respectively connected by jumpers. And then the phase comes to one third contact, and from the second dimmer from the third contact it goes to the lamp.

I told according to the designations on the diagram at the top, if your designations differ, then do everything in a fundamentally similar way.

Scheme No. 4 with two pass-through switches.

Rarely used, usually in walk-through rooms and long corridors. The scheme allows you to turn off and turn on the light from different sides of the room.

The brightness level allows you to set the dimmer, but if you put it in the off position, then the lamps will not respond to switching by the pass-through switches.

What everyone needs to know about dimmers:

Many mistakenly believe that dimmers save energy. At the lowest level of rage savings are no more than 15 percent. The rest is dissipated by the dimmer.
Due to the possibility of overheating, dimmers should not be operated at ambient temperatures. above 27 degrees.
Use dimmers only for their intended purpose. and to regulate the types of devices specified in the technical data sheet.

Similar materials.

Dimmers or dimmers are designed to regulate artificial lighting, as well as turning on and off lighting for incandescent and halogen lamps. In the article we will consider their types and connection schemes.

As for adjusting the lighting of LED and energy-saving lamps, ordinary dimmers will not work, for this you need special dimmers of complex modification. If you connect a conventional dimmer with an LED or energy-saving lamp, you will reduce the service life by several times.

The simplest scheme is when the switch is replaced with a dimmer, and at any time you can return everything as it was.

dimmer connection diagram

Second scheme

Also a very common scheme when a dimmer is connected together with a switch. Let's say the switch is located near the door, and the regulator is near the sofa or bed, which allows you to adjust the lighting or turn it off or on without getting up from it.

second dimmer circuit

third scheme

Scheme with connecting two dimmers at different points.

dimmer circuit

Fourth scheme

Rarely finds its application in everyday life, but I decided to share it.

dimmer circuit

A dimmer or dimmer is used to smoothly control the brightness of artificial light sources. The dimmer also includes the functions of a conventional switch. In this article, we will consider the main models of these devices, connection diagrams for various types of chandeliers and lamps with incandescent and halogen bulbs.

Dimmers with conventional designs cannot control the brightness of fluorescent and LED light bulbs.

In addition, they significantly reduce their service life.

Not the current moment on the market, quite a lot of different models of dimmers are sold. Some, in addition to the basic functions, have additional lighting control features:

setting the time to turn on and off the lamps;
management using the "smart home" system;
clap or voice control;
remote control.

Before buying a device, decide on a set of necessary functions - you should not overpay for too much.

Depending on the type of light source and its power, the following dimmers are selected:

1. Dimmers for incandescent lamps and lamps with halogen bulbs designed for a voltage level of 220 volts.

2.Dimmers for low-voltage halogen bulbs powered by a transformer.

If the lamp is designed for a voltage of 12-24 volts, it is necessary to use a transformer that will convert the current coming out of the dimmer to a value within these limits. The transformer must guarantee soft switching. A small current is first applied to the lamp, which gradually heats up the filament.

3. Dimmers for fluorescent and LED bulbs.

For the operation of fluorescent lamps, it is necessary to have an electronic choke on the lamp. Thanks to it, low voltage is applied to the lamp and the intensity of the discharge, that is, the intensity of light, is regulated.

When buying a dimmer, it is better to give preference to a device with a power reserve. This will secure the network and, if necessary, supplement the system with a large number of light bulbs.

The installation location of the device must be selected before starting installation work.

Based on the conceived scheme, electrical cables are laid.

Dimmer connection diagrams

Consider all possible options for organizing lighting control in a room or apartment.

Let's start with the simplest ones. All work can be done by any man.

The first thing to do is turn off the mains power in the apartment, or in the room where the work will be carried out. Then, using an indicator screwdriver, the absence of a phase is checked.

Schematic diagram of connecting a dimmer

So, a simple circuit consists of one dimmer and one or more light bulbs connected in series.

The dimmer is installed in phase L, and not zero - N. To connect, you need to connect the electrical wire coming from the junction box to terminal L with an arrow up, and the second lead to ~ with an arrow at an angle. Such a scheme will allow, if necessary, to install a dimmer instead of a conventional switch.

Dimmer with switch

A more complicated scheme is often used, when a switch is connected in front of the dimmer into the gap of the phase wire.

This scheme is great for bedrooms - the switch is installed near the door, and the dimmer is near the bed. You can control the lighting directly from the bed.

Four options for connecting a dimmer

When leaving the room, you can turn off the lighting with a switch. It is noteworthy that when you turn it back on, the lighting level will be the same.

Scheme with several dimmers

If necessary, several dimmers can be installed in the room to control one light source. To do this, it is necessary that three wires come from each installation site to the junction box.

The installation scheme is quite simple - the first and second contacts of the dimmers are connected using jumpers.

A phase is supplied to one third contact, and from the second dimmer the third contact goes to the lamp.

Scheme with several pass-through switches

Such a scheme is rarely used and usually in long corridors or walk-through rooms. This solution allows you to turn off and turn on the light from different parts of the room. The brightness level is regulated by a dimmer, but if it is set to off, then switching the lamp with pass-through switches will not react.

What you need to know about dimmers:

1.Dimmers cannot be operated at an ambient temperature of more than 27 degrees.

2. Dimmers practically do not save electricity.

At the minimum brightness level, the savings are only 15 percent.

3. The minimum load on the device must be more than 40 watts. Otherwise, the service life of the regulator will be significantly reduced.

4. Dimmers can only be used for their intended purpose.

They are only used to adjust the luminaires specified in the technical documentation.

Follow these rules and you can easily install a dimmer with your own hands.

Dimmer connection video

Category: Switches and sockets

Connect the dimmer by yourself

To voltage regulator for light bulb floor lamp or incandescent wall lamp, you need very few radio components.

First version of lighting control

See wiring diagram in fig. 1:44.

Thyristor VS1 controls diode VD1. At each half-wave of mains voltage. The container Cl is filled above R1.

When the voltage across the capacitance Cl increases to a voltage. insert diode VD1 - will be in the open position.

Thyristor VS1 is unlocked and capacitance C1 is discharged through the diode and the control input of the thyristor.

By changing the value of the resistor R1, we change the moment of charging the capacitance and, thus, the moment the thyristor is turned on. Thus, it is possible to adjust the brightness of the lamps from zero to Uc / 2 - UBK (Uc is the main voltage, UBK is the input voltage of the conductor).

Since the thyristor is only enabled with positive polarity voltage, the light of the lamps is set to half the mains voltage.

To ensure the maximum brightness of the lamp, it can work as a full day. The lamp is shown as a dotted line in the figure.

The second version of the incandescent lamp light source controller

The controller shown in Fig. 1.45, you can change the voltage from zero to 100% minus the voltage. Turn on the dishwasher.

Switch SA1 is off, the circuit works in the same way as described above.

After switching on switch SA1, there is one half voltage. through the H1.1 lamp through the VD1 diodes and supplying the second half voltage. regulated. Rl resistance.

The light bulb controller in this circuit can be used to change the solder tip temperature.

In this case, switch SA1 can act as a backup. When the maximum resistance R1 and the circuit breaker SA1 are exceeded, the circuit does not draw current, in which case the need for an additional switch is eliminated.

You can choose the denominator with any letter, but you need to choose the right Rl rating, because dinosaur switching voltage is different.

Lighting control systems

Of course, you can save energy by simply turning off the lights when not needed, sometimes forgetting or not noticing that we have turned off the lights - the lighting control system will not be able to headbutt such minorities.

The most common types of lighting controls are:

Dimmer
Motion sensor and photo sensor
timer

Dimmer controls

Dimmer- A device designed to dim incandescent lamps, LED lamps, and some types of CFL (compact fluorescent lamps).

Electronic dimming is considered the most economical and compact. Modern dimming not only allows you to adjust the brightness of the light, but also allows you to smoothly start the lamp, turn the light on and off with a timer and remote control (with remote control).

Dimming is not expensive and provides some energy savings - when the bulbs are used in reduced light and increase their lifespan.

However, if the light bulbs dimming, it loses its performance in terms of color temperature, lower brightness, the light is red, but at the same time, if it is a dull light on the lamp, so the color rendering is no longer important.

The efficiency factor of a reduced voltage light bulb when dimming is used is greatly reduced, so it is much more beneficial to use an appropriate power bulb that is connected directly rather than constantly dimming.

Unlike an incandescent lamp, a compact fluorescent lamp does not lose brightness.

Dimmer connector - 100 photographic settings and a description of modern models

It should be noted that dimming can only be used in those lamps that are designed for them, otherwise the life of the CFL will be significantly reduced. Some compact fluorescent lamps are compatible with standard dimming, while others require a special device with handle and holder - read all package information before purchasing.

Dimer types:

LED dimming
Dimmer for fluorescent lamps
Dimmer for low voltage halogen lamps
Dimmer for 220V incandescent and halogen lamps

Motion sensor control

Motion sensors are used to automatically activate external lighting if a person is present or moved.

This allows you to use the open areas of the garden above the theme, thereby ensuring traffic safety, as well as repelling uninvited "guests". In addition to garden surfaces, motion sensors are also used in urban residential buildings when it is necessary to illuminate a dark corridor or so-called "dark rooms" in general where there is no permanent lighting.

Motion sensors:

Infrared - detects motion with infrared light
Microwave - emits high frequency electromagnetic waves and, with the smallest change in the reflected waves, starts the microprocessor, which then activates the embedded data.
Ultrasonic - examines the surrounding area using sound waves while changing the frequency of faded signals, the sensor starts with the function that is included in it.
Combined - combines several technologies at the same time, for example, a microwave oven and an infrared sensor.

Motion Sensor Scope:

Apartment - entrance hall, pantry, built-in wardrobe
Country - hallway, stairs, basement, pantry, in front of the front door, in front of the garage (answers to the car)

Photosensor

Photosensor(Also known as a dark switch, also known as a photocell which is a day/night sensor) responds to changing lighting conditions so that after dark the light flashes at dawn, making it useful for all kinds of outdoor lighting.

Application area:

Entrance to the house in front of the house
Hut area lighting
Garage entrance

timer

On/off timer, or time relay - a device designed to automatically control lighting.

The clock is divided into mechanical and digital, and works at a scheduled time, for example, during your longer absence from the apartment (leave) to create the appearance of your presence, which is a software timer to turn the light on and off at a certain time. In addition, they can be programmed to come home from work, so it turned into a light, and it was automatically turned off after 5 minutes of work, also very convenient.

Application area:

Apartment - hall and rooms
Rural house - garage, basement, hallway, stairs, etc.

Mechanical watches work well with LED lamps, light bulbs and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) that read the digital warning label compatible with the special lamp.

Correctly adjusted headlights - traffic safety

Headlight adjustment requires action. Often drivers do not understand why the vehicles they were following are blind and the reason is the wrong setting.

You can do it yourself if you follow a specific set of steps. This will allow you to choose the optimal exposure angle to ensure safe travel at all times.

Headlight adjustment

Setting the headlight angle is a simple task that can be mastered by an inexperienced driver. This will not require an examination, since the main condition is the precondition for the calculation.

If you want to get rid of potential danger on the road, simple instructions should be used.

First, you must find a flat, vertical surface, such as the wall of a house or a garage door.
They need to go 5 meters.
After that, measurements are taken: from the ground to the lamps and from the lamp to the middle of the car.
After obtaining the necessary information, the cutting strip is 5 cm below the distance to the lamps, and then the entire length of the machine.
It's time to turn on the light and adjust your position so that the edge of the light is just below the line.

Headlight adjustment
Setting the headlight angle is a simple task that can be mastered by an inexperienced driver

After turning on the low beam headlights, the image is usually scary.

This requires careful setup, which you can do yourself. The gradual implementation of the described task provides an ideal result. Without accurate measurements, correct illumination cannot be achieved.

Why do we need to adjust headlights?

The installation of the headlights must be carried out without failure. Firstly, after changing the light, some drivers do not even know that they are driving with the wrong light.

It is important to note why special attention should be paid to debugging.

Better lighting;
Safety for others;
Maximum efficiency.

Car maintenance is a priority for owners.

Wrong actions lead to catastrophes that cannot be eliminated. Using the available instructions, you need to adjust the light and see the result in the photo.

Best Lighting

After adjusting the headlights, the driver gets excellent illumination on the road.

This prevents dangerous situations associated with invisible objects. With such examples you have to face with every step of the night, so you cannot leave without learning. Yes, people think that they are used to inconvenience, but they do not agree with excessive discomfort. If you want to achieve the desired result, you do not need to visit service stations, so you need to spend some free time.

After adjusting the headlights, the driver gets excellent road illumination.

Safety for others

Proper adjustment of all headlights ensures the safety of surrounding vehicles.

The constant collision is a consequence of the fact that the driver is blinded by other vehicles. At high speed, he immediately gets lost and cannot assess the situation. On a wet road, an accident occurs that cannot be avoided.

How to connect a dimmer

The reason is to control the habit. Previously, car owners have not attended a similar service, but it is necessary. Now the masters are advised to take seriously all the details that can affect the movement.

Maximum efficiency

If the road remains dark in low beam, the cause is an incorrect setting.

Some people think that they need to install a stronger lamp, but this is a mistake. In such situations, the car owner only thinks about tuning. Then maximum efficiency will be guaranteed, which will show how useful the lights are while driving. This is what experts say, who know exactly what their car is capable of.

There are certain settings for the headlights.

Previously, they were only tested in workshops, so drivers are unwilling to change inadequate lighting and discomfort. Today this is a simple guide that allows you to change the angle of the beams. The surface of the road surface is then visible in front of the vehicle.

While driving, the warning remains decisive, so let's not forget that if you want to be on a long distance trip.

The work of the ELI incandescent lamp is controlled by the thyristor VS1.

As a light sensor in the circuit, a photoresistor R3 is used, in parallel with which capacitor C1 is connected. During operation, the capacitor is charged from the network through the rectifier bridge VD1-VD4, resistor R2 and transistor VT1.

When the voltage on the capacitor reaches the level of 8 V, the avalanche transistor VT2 breaks through, and the capacitor is discharged to the control electrode circuit of the thyristor. As a result, the thyristor is unlocked, as a result of which the lamp lights up.

The charge rate of the capacitor is determined by the photoresistor. Its dark resistance is quite large, exceeds 3 MΩ, and it does not affect the charge of the capacitor.

With increasing illumination, the resistance of the photoresistor decreases, which leads to a decrease in the charge rate of the capacitor. Therefore, in the next half-cycle of the mains voltage, the lamp ignites with a delay relative to the beginning of the half-cycle, and its resulting luminous flux will be less. Variable resistor R1 allows you to adjust the maximum level of illumination.

When manufacturing the device, it is necessary to provide that the light of the lamp does not fall on the photoresistor.

The original (an article in the Radio Amateur magazine) indicates the type of diode bridge - KS404V. As you know, the letters KS denote zener diodes. Most likely, the KTs404V diode assembly was meant, which contains two rectifier diode bridges with a maximum reverse voltage of 400 V and a rectified current of up to 1 A.

Turning the lamp on and off is carried out by short touching the sensor E1, and with a long touch of it for four seconds, a smooth change in the brightness of the lamp will occur.

The specified degree of brightness is retained even when the circuit is powered off.

The dimmer is powered from a 220 volt AC network using a transformerless unit, which includes a VD2 zener diode and a reactive circuit of C5-R7 radio components.

From the rectifier through the VD1 diodes, power is supplied to the fifth output of the K145AP2 microcircuit.

For phase control of the triac, a chain of a resistor and a capacitor C4-R5 is connected to the output of two of the same microcircuit, which sets the formation of a clock pulse. The control signal from pin six DD1 is amplified by the transistor and then fed to the triac through the current-limiting resistance R4.

In this dimmer circuit, any metal plate can be used as a touch sensor.

Triac dimmer circuits are well suited for extending the life of incandescent lamps and for adjusting their brightness.

Or for powering non-standard equipment, for example, at 110 volts.

This simple dimmer circuit for an LED lamp allows you to change its brightness. The basis of the circuit is a linear voltage regulator LM2941, which made it possible to seriously simplify the design. The circuit regulates the glow of the LEDs as long as the input voltage is more than 10.5V.

A very good way to adjust the brightness of the LEDs is to use pulse-width modulation, because the LEDs are powered by the recommended current and it is possible to adjust the brightness of the glow

The operation of the touch controller is the following, turning on or off the circuit is carried out by briefly touching the touch plate.

How to connect a dimmer to adjust the light with your own hands

Brightness is adjusted by holding the sensor. The selected brightness level is remembered until the next light adjustment.

Changing the brightness of an incandescent bulb is carried out both with the help of a variable resistor, and automatically when the natural light level changes due to the presence of a photoresistor.