Connecting the dimmer abb. Installing a dimmer yourself. How devices work

Recently, a new device has appeared on store shelves, which in appearance resembles a regular switch, but costs several times more. This piece of technology is called a dimmer and is intended to regulate the brightness of light in a room.
Compared to a regular switch, a dimmer has more functions. If the old and familiar device only turns the light on and off, then the new product allows you to fully replace these functions and additionally adjust the brightness. The user can independently set the lighting intensity level and change it if necessary.
The principle of operation of the device is simple. Using a special regulator, the power consumed by energy carriers changes. When the level of lighting intensity decreases, the power consumed by the lamps also decreases in direct proportion. And vice versa - setting a higher power of electrical flow increases the production of light. Accordingly, depending on the set indicator, the brightness of the lamps is set.
Does constantly changing the power affect the shelf life of the lamps? This question is relevant for many. Using a dimmer instead of a switch does not have any negative effect on electrical appliances. That is, changes in brightness will not cause the lamps to last less. Or maybe even vice versa increase the service life. After all, if you remember, an incandescent light bulb most often burns out when the lighting is turned on or off. That is, the voltage is abruptly supplied to the light bulb. Using a dimmer, voltage is smoothly supplied to the lighting fixtures, which should increase the life of the lamps.
In addition, the device has its advantages. The greatest advantage is the reduction in energy consumption. With constant regulation of lighting, you can significantly reduce the number of Watts, which means lower utility bills.

Types of dimmers: technology features

All dimmers available on the market today can be divided into several groups:

turning;

sensory;

button.

The first group includes devices whose main mechanism consists of a cylinder that moves along its axis. By turning the component clockwise, the brightness of the light increases, and by turning it back, it decreases. In terms of its use and connection, such a dimmer is considered the simplest.
The second type is sensory. They allow you to set lighting using a special screen that responds to heat, movement, etc. The device is considered the most modern because it allows the user to set the desired parameters with minimal intervention.
Push-button dimmers are the simplest in their technology. This is a two-button device, where one of the keys is responsible for increasing the power of the electric lamp, and the second is responsible for decreasing it. At the same time, the buttons can be either touch-sensitive or regular. The device is often installed as a pass-through device in the overall circuit.

Adjustable light switches: control possibilities

The installation of a dimmer depends directly on its type. When choosing a rotary device, the device is connected instead of a conventional switch. Accordingly, all lights are turned on and off only using a dimmer.
Touch and button types have more options. The fact is that devices can be installed at several points at once. At the same time, each of them will have the same functionality, but the general light is controlled from several user-friendly positions.
The dimmer can also be installed in parallel with the switch. This option is more suitable for touch devices. Although it is used quite rarely, it is suitable for large rooms where, due to space, it is better to have several lighting control locations.

How to connect a dimmer to the network?

The most important aspect is the installation of the dimmer itself. It’s worth noting right away that the dimmer connection diagram is nothing complicated. The device is mounted in exactly the same way as a regular switch. That is, you need to create a break in the power supply circuit. The dimmer itself is connected directly to it.
The difference in the appearance of the device itself is felt in the installation of the output from the circuit. If we talk about the rotary design, there will be only two of them. A two-key device will have exactly the same circuit. It is important to observe the polarity when choosing the location of the circuit break, but, as electricians confirm, even a violation in this area will not affect the performance of the dimmer.
If you want to replace a regular switch with a dimmer, then you do not need to make an additional break in the circuit. Simply, instead of the switch, a brightness control device is mounted. The proposed connection option is the simplest.
The installation of several devices at once will be more complex. In addition to two or more breaks in the circuit, a jumper is also created between the dimmers themselves for the pass-through system. The method is suitable for large rooms. For example, a double installation scheme is recommended for corridors, living rooms, public areas, etc.
A pass-through switch is also used in circuits. It is recommended in cases where several light controllers are being installed. The pass-through mechanism is installed in part of the circuit from the phase to the dimmer itself.

Dimmer and LEDs are incompatible things

If you decide to install a brightness control, then it is worth considering some points that may prevent the mechanism from working. The fact is that the device is designed for a limited electrical load. Accordingly, the connection diagram should only include:

incandescent light bulbs;
halogen lamps.

Energy-saving illuminators that have become so popular recently are designed for a different power. Therefore, if you include a dimmer in the circuit instead of a regular switch, the user risks being left without lighting at all. Working in a pair of these devices is incompatible and leads to system failure.
But there is a way out of the situation. There are special LED lamps on sale that are dimmable. They are more expensive than simple LED lamps, but they exist. And for halogen lamps there are special dimmers on sale. They are designed specifically for the corresponding devices, which eliminates the risk of the system falling. Therefore, before buying a device in a store, consult with the seller about what circuits each type is designed for. In the future, this will avoid problems with malfunctions of the power supply system.

How to install a dimmer?

If the installation diagram is clear, then the question of directly replacing the switch with a new generation technology remains open. In terms of the operating system itself, the process is no different from installing a switch. This can be clearly seen in the video:

It is best to use a ready-made built-in mounting box from an old light switch. It contains two wires that establish an open circuit. One goes directly to the lighting device, and the second goes out of phase.
When using it is necessary to install a new mounting box, you must adhere to the following sequence:

turn off the plugs or the machine; this should be done not for a single room, but for the entire apartment or room in which the appliances are being replaced;
use a crown to drill a hole in the wall that is sized to accommodate the mounting box, and install it in the resulting hole;
lead the wires into the installation box;
connect each core to a specific dimmer terminal;
fix the dimmer housing in the installation box;
Tighten the side screws for fastening the dimmer so that the clamping feet can be evenly and stably distributed over the body of the mounting box;
install a decorative external element, tighten all components;
restore the flow of electricity. If lighting appears, then everything was done correctly.

Pass-through, touch and other types of dimmers are installed using the same technology. The main thing is to follow the sequence of steps and connecting the device to the general circuit will not be difficult.

Should I do it myself or call a professional?

Is it possible to install a light dimmer yourself? If you have the slightest idea how to install a socket or switch, feel free to take on the dimmer.
The installation scheme is no different in terms of complexity.
But, if you have doubts about your own abilities, then it is better to give preference to electrician specialists. They will do everything as quickly as possible and without risk. The easiest way to find a professional is on the Internet. Many companies offer relevant services and will help at a convenient time for the client.

A dimmer is an electronic mechanism that acts as an electrical power regulator. A few years ago, the only device that could change the brightness of light was a rheostat. Its use did not make it possible to save energy consumption, since the power of the rheostats was the same as the load. With the advent and installation of a dimmer, it became possible to adjust the brightness of the light by reducing the power of the network.

Device and types

Dimmer designs are based on different element bases. They all have their advantages and disadvantages. The following types are distinguished:

When choosing any type of structure, you should take into account the parameters of the load to which it will be connected.

Design features

Dimmers are distinguished by installation method, dividing them into groups: modular, on a cord, monoblock, for installation in an installation box. Modular devices are installed in an electrical panel on a DIN rail.

To control they have a remote button or key switch. Typically, a dimmer is connected to a circuit with incandescent lamps or halogen lamps through a step-down transformer.

Wired regulators are installed to control the power of table lamps, sconces, floor lamps, etc. The only condition is that the lamps must have incandescent lamps.

The most popular are monoblock designs, which look like regular switches and are installed in the same mounting boxes. Specialists connect the device to a phase wire break. According to the method of their management, there are the following varieties:

Recently, monoblock types of regulators have been mainly used, but modular designs are well suited for controlling light in an apartment or private house.

Popular models

Currently, many models of dimmers are produced. Their production is established by both Russian and foreign manufacturers. The following devices are worth noting:

It is worth noting the following brands of devices: TDM SQ 1805−0009, Lezard 702−0303−115, VIKO KARMEN 562020, etc.

Installation and connection of the dimmer

Using a monoblock device as an example, it is worth considering how to install and correctly connect a dimmer. The fact is that this type of device is most often used, and it is easy to connect it yourself. The only important point is correct identification of phase and neutral wires.

Otherwise, the electronic circuit of the device will fail. Otherwise, it is installed in the same way as a standard switch. First, turn off the power that is supplied to the room or the entire apartment. Then carefully remove the old switch and disconnect the wires from it.

Turn on the machine and use an electrical indicator to determine where the phase wire is located. The machine is turned off again, and if the wires are the same color, then the phase wire is marked with a small piece of insulating tape.

On the back of the dimmer housing there are two terminals marked: in, out. The first means entry, and the second means exit. The phase wire is connected to the first terminal, and the neutral wire to the second. It is necessary to immediately carefully check the functionality of the device.

Apply power by turning on the machine and turn the dial clockwise until the lamps operate at full power. Next, the device is installed in the mounting box and firmly fixed.

In the bedroom, the dimmer can be installed near the bed, and at the entrance - a standard switch. In such a scheme, the device will play the role of a pass-through light controller. This method is very convenient for large areas of premises.

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

As for adjusting the lighting of LED and energy-saving lamps, ordinary dimmers are not suitable; for this you need special dimmers of complex modification. If you connect a regular dimmer with an LED or energy-saving lamp, you will reduce the service life 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

This is 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 located 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

It rarely finds its application in everyday life, but I decided to share it too.

dimmer circuit

A dimmer or dimmer is used to smoothly regulate the brightness of artificial lighting sources. The dimmer also includes the functions of a regular switch. In this article we will look at 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.

There are currently quite a few different models of dimmers on sale on the market. Some, in addition to the basic functions, also have additional lighting control capabilities:

setting the time for turning on and off the lamps;
control using the “smart home” system;
clap or voice control;
control using remote control.

Before purchasing a device, decide on the set of necessary functions - do not overpay for unnecessary ones.

Depending on the type of lighting source and its power, the following light controllers 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 light bulbs powered through 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 the filament.

3.Dimmers for fluorescent and LED light bulbs.

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

When purchasing 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 planned diagram, electrical cables are laid.

Dimmer connection diagrams

Let's consider all possible options for organizing lighting control in a room or apartment.

Let's start with the simplest ones. Any man can do all the work.

The first thing to do is turn off the power supply 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 the gap of phase L, and not zero - N. To connect, you need to connect the electrical wire coming from the distribution box to terminal L with an upward arrow, and the second lead to ~ with an arrow at an angle. This circuit will allow, if necessary, to install a dimmer instead of a regular switch.

Dimmer with switch

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

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

Four dimmer connection options

When leaving the room, you can turn off the lighting using the 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 a room to control one light source. To do this, it is necessary that three wires come into the junction box from each installation location.

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

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

Circuit with multiple pass-through switches

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

What you need to know about dimmers:

1. Dimmers cannot be used at ambient temperatures above 27 degrees.

2. Dimmers practically do not save energy.

At the minimum brightness level, 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 used only for adjusting the luminaires specified in the technical documentation.

Follow these rules and you can install the dimmer yourself without any problems.

Dimmer connection video

Category: Switches and sockets

Connect the dimmer yourself

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

First version of lighting control

See connection diagram in fig. 1:44.

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

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

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

By changing the value of resistor R1, we change the moment at which the capacitor is charged and, thus, the moment at which the thyristor is turned on. Thus, you can adjust the brightness of the lamps from zero to Uc / 2 - UBK (Uc - main voltage, UBK - conductor input voltage).

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

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

Second version of incandescent light source controller

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

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

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

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

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

You can select the denominator with any letter, but you need to select the correct Rl rating because the 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 hit the head with such minorities.

The most common types of lighting control are:

Dimmer
Motion sensor and photosensor
timer

Dimmer controls

Dimmer— A device designed to adjust the brightness of 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 for smooth starting of the lamp, turning the light on and off using 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 conditions and increases their lifespan.

However, if the light bulbs are dimmed, 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 color rendering is no longer important.

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

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

Dimmer connector - 100 photographic settings and description of modern models

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

Types of dimers:

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

Motion sensor control

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

This allows the open areas of the garden to be used 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 constant lighting.

Motion sensors:

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

Motion Sensor Volume:

Apartment - entrance hall, pantry, built-in wardrobe
Country - hallway, stairs, basement, storage room, in front of the front door, in front of the garage (answers for a 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 types of outdoor lighting.

Scope of application:

Entrance to the house in front of the house
Lighting the hut area
Garage entrance

timer

On/off timer, or time relay - a device designed for automatic lighting control.

Clocks are divided into mechanical and digital, and work at scheduled times, for example, during your longer absence from the apartment (leave), to create the appearance of your presence, which is a program timer to turn on and off the lights at a specific 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 operation, also very convenient.

Scope of application:

Apartment – hall and rooms
House in a rural area - garage, basement, hallway, stairs, etc.

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

Properly adjusted headlights - Traffic safety

An action is required to adjust the headlights. Often, drivers do not understand why the vehicles they are following are blind, and the reason is due to incorrect settings.

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

Adjusting the headlights

Setting the headlight angle is a simple task that can be mastered by an inexperienced driver. This will not require expertise since the main condition is a pre-condition of calculation.

If you want to get rid of potential road hazards, you should follow simple instructions.

First, you must find a flat, vertical surface, such as the side of a house or a garage door.
They need to go 5 meters.
After this, measurements are taken: from the ground to the lamps and from the lamp to the middle of the car.
After receiving 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.

Adjusting the headlights
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. Gradual implementation of the described task ensures an ideal result. Without accurate measurements, correct lighting cannot be achieved.

Why do we need to adjust our headlights?

Installation of headlights should 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's 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 disasters that cannot be eliminated. Using the instructions available, you need to adjust the light and see the result in the photo.

Better lighting

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

This prevents dangerous situations caused by invisible objects. These are the kinds of examples you have to deal with every step of the night, so you can't 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 receives excellent road illumination

Safety for others

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

The constant collision is a result of the driver being blinded by other cars. At high speed, he immediately gets lost and cannot assess the situation. An accident occurs on a wet road that cannot be avoided.

How to connect a dimmer

The reason is to control the habit. Previously, car owners have not attended similar service, but it is necessary. Now experts advise taking seriously all details that may affect movement.

Maximum efficiency

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

Some people think that they need to install a more durable 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 the 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 reluctant to change due to inadequate lighting and discomfort. Today this is a simple guide that allows you to change the angle of the rays. The road surface is then visible in front of the vehicle.

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

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

The circuit uses photoresistor R3 as a light sensor, with capacitor C1 connected in parallel. 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 into the thyristor control electrode circuit. As a result, the thyristor is unlocked, as a result of which the lamp lights up.

The charging rate of the capacitor is determined by the photoresistor. Its dark resistance is quite high, exceeding 3 MOhm, 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 charging rate of the capacitor. Therefore, during the next half-cycle of the mains voltage, the lamp lights up 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 illumination level.

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

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

The lamp is turned on and off by briefly touching the E1 sensor, and if you touch it for a long time for four seconds, there will be a smooth change in the brightness of the lamp.

The specified brightness level is maintained even when the circuit's power is turned off.

The lighting controller is powered from an alternating voltage network of 220 volts using a transformerless unit, which includes a zener diode VD2 and a reactive circuit of radio components C5-R7.

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

To phase control the triac, a chain of resistor and capacitor C4-R5 is connected to pin 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 supplied to the triac through 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, 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 regulate the brightness of LEDs is to use pulse-width modulation, since the LEDs are powered by the recommended current and it is possible to adjust the brightness of the LEDs

The touch controller operates by turning the circuit on or off by briefly touching the touch plate.

How to connect a dimmer to adjust the light yourself

Brightness adjustment occurs when you hold the sensor. The selected brightness level is remembered until the next lighting adjustment.

The brightness of an incandescent light bulb is changed both using a variable resistor and automatically when the natural light level changes due to the presence of a photoresistor.

The drawing shows a diagram of a typical regulator, adapted for operation in a network with an alternating voltage of 220 Volts.

C1-C4 = 47n; R4 = 100k VD1-VD3 = DB3; R1 = 30k R5 = 100k VS1 = BT139-800; R2 = 68k R6 = 1k; R3 = 390k L1 = 30µH

This design does not require the selection of radio components and starts working immediately.

The only adjustment that may be needed is by adjusting the position of the trimming resistance slider R4.

Dimmers or dimmers serve for smooth adjustment of the brightness level of artificial lighting, and 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, many different models of dimmers for incandescent and halogen lamps are sold. Some of them have additional lighting control options:

With the function of setting a program for switching on, switching off times, etc.
Connection and control using the smart home system.
Smooth lamp shutdown.
Remote control using a remote control.
Control by voice, clap, etc.

I recommend that before purchasing, you decide which functions you need, and you shouldn’t overpay for the extra ones.
And it is especially necessary before starting electrical installation 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 to implement your planned scheme.

Dimmer connection diagrams.

Next, we will look at various schemes for organizing lighting control in a room in your house or apartment. Starting from the simplest to the most complex, allowing you to regulate and control the inclusion of halogen or incandescent lamps from different places in your room.

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

Schematic diagram of connecting a dimmer.

Let's start with the most common and simple circuit, consisting of one dimmer and one or more lamps connected to it in series. Just remember that The dimmer is placed only in the phase wire break(denoted L) rather than 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 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 switch.

Often a slightly more complex, but very convenient circuit is used with an ordinary switch, which is connected to 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 near the bed. This allows you to adjust the brightness and turn on and off 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 as 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 location come into one junction box.

The connection 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 you according to the designations in the diagram above, if your designations are different, 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 circuit allows you to turn the light off and on from different sides of the room.

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

What everyone needs to know about dimmers:

Many people 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.

Related materials:

Relatively recently, the only available option for regulating the brightness of lighting fixtures was the installation of 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, but when the brightness of the lighting was reduced, the energy consumption did not decrease in any way - the excess power was simply dissipated. Therefore, rheostats were used to regulate brightness only where there was a need for it, for example, in theaters.

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

Video - How a dimmer works

A standard dimmer is connected like an ordinary one, i.e. into an open circuit in the power supply of the lighting device. The dimensions of the regulator in question and the fasteners for installing it in a niche also coincide with similar parameters of a simple switch. Consequently, anyone who has an idea of how to connect traditional light switches can handle installing a dimmer. The only important point: the terminals 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 (also known as rotary) and push-button (electronic).

Table. Some types of dimmers

Types of dimmers	Explanations
Dimmer for incandescent lamps and 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 lamp filament.
Dimmer designed for low-voltage halogen lamps powered via a transformer	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 needed that provides 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 produce the specified results and smoothly regulate the strength of the light flow.
Touch dimmer	The main difference between the touch device (viko dimmer) is the ability to regulate the light output by barely perceptible touching 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	Involves multiple key presses
Single dimmer	Can be used both for one lamp and for a number of light sources combined into a common group.
Group dimmer	For regulating several light sources at once.

Rotary regulators are the most widely used. Control of lighting intensity with such devices is performed by simply turning the knob in the desired direction. Push-button dimmers are more convenient and flexible in terms of controlling light brightness. Additionally, electronic dimmers allow you to connect buttons in parallel and control lighting from several different places. 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.

There is also a group of devices on the market that allow you to control the brightness of lighting remotely using a remote control. However, such dimmers are an order of magnitude more expensive than the analogues discussed above.

The most popular, as already noted, are rotary type dimmers. These are the ones we will look at 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 design - 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 lighting brightness control.

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

When a positive half-wave occurs, the capacitor is charged via a potentiometer. In this case, the charging 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 across the capacitor increases to a value sufficient to open the dimmer semiconductors, 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 The dinistor and triac are symmetrical, so the direction of the current is not of fundamental importance for them.

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

The parameters of the structural elements of the regulator may vary from different manufacturing companies, but the principle of operation of the devices remains virtually unchanged. The properties of resistors and capacitors only affect the characteristics of the ignition points, as well as the stability of the lighting device. Thus, the lowest brightness of light is ensured at the minimum value of the resistor resistance, and the highest, accordingly, at the maximum.

It is allowed to include any triacs in a practical circuit, taking into account the load power. However, the permissible voltage of devices should not be less than 400V, because the value of instantaneous voltage in domestic power grids 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 in place of a regular switch, familiarize yourself with 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, 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 regulator must not be overheated. The maximum permissible indoor air temperature is +27 degrees;
The load connected to the regulator must be at least 40 W. 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 conjunction with lighting devices listed in the technical data sheet.

The regulators under consideration are designed to work with certain types of load. Thus, most dimmer models can only be used to regulate the brightness of halogen and incandescent lamps. They cannot be used in combination with LED lamps and most energy-saving lighting devices, 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 a store employee whether the dimmer you are purchasing 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 installed in your home.

Instructions for installing a dimmer instead of a regular switch

Replacing a traditional switch with a rotary regulator will not cause any difficulties, because they are installed according to a similar principle. You just need to carefully study the technology and adhere to the established sequence.

First step. We turn off the electricity supply and additionally make sure that there is no electricity using a special indicator screwdriver.

Second step. Remove the button of the installed switch.

Third step. We unscrew the screws securing the decorative frame of the switch and remove it.

Fourth step. Unscrew the mounting screws and remove the mechanism from the mounting box. We can install the dimmer in the same box.

Fifth step. Unscrew the electrical wires from the switch.

Sixth step. We see two free wires.

One of them (phase supply) 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 housing.

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

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

Connect the wires and insert the dimmer into the box

Eighth step. We check the operation of the installed dimmer by first 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, the voltage on the lamps will begin to gradually increase, as evidenced by a gradual increase in the brightness of the light.