A practical wireless light switch is a multifunctional element that allows you to control your home lighting system. It activates light sources by sending a signal from a transmitter to a receiver.
To install the module, you do not need to ditch the walls or lay new wiring. You can position the patch switch anywhere, without causing any damage to the decorative finish.
Wireless Module Components
Structurally, the wireless type switch is very simple and consists of two working components: a receiver and a transmitter. Each of these nodes has its own zone of responsibility and performs strictly defined functions that ensure the correct control of the lighting system.
The device and principle of operation of the receiver
The receiver is a radio-controlled relay, which during operation picks up the corresponding signal and closes the galvanic circuit of household wiring.
A relay is placed in the maximum proximity of the lighting device, or somewhere in the neighborhood, but always in a place falling within the coverage area of the transmitter.
Due to the compactness of the receiving radio relay, it can be located in a chandelier, sconce or floor lamp. When you want to take control of the control of spotlights, the receiver is appropriate to "hide" behind a suspended ceiling
Another option is to mount the element into the junction box, if its dimensions allow it to be done technically. The mini-device is controlled from the remote control, smartphone, tablet, computer via Wi-Fi or via radio waves.
Transmitter specificity
For correct operation, the transmitter does not need to be connected to an active power supply network. Power is provided by autonomous energy sources - batteries.
In more advanced models, there is a small internal generator that generates an electric current at the moment when the user presses a key. The energy impulse arising at this time is transformed into a radio signal, which the receiving device picks up.
Commands to the module are given from the remote control or via a phone with Wi-Fi access. In this way, up to 8 devices can be controlled simultaneously.
A signal transmitter equipped with an energy generator costs more than a similar battery-powered model. But the price is quickly compensated by ease of use, and the owners do not have to think every time how not to forget and replace the exhausted batteries in time.
The scope of the device’s coverage depends on many parameters. This is primarily affected by the general technical characteristics of the product and the structural features of the room (layout, the presence of furniture, false walls, etc.), where the module is located.
Simple budget devices transmit the correct signal in a radius of 20-50 meters. In more advanced models, this figure reaches 350 meters, but the price of such powerful devices is still “biting”.
The signal transmitter, which operates on batteries, copes with turning on and off the light in rooms, serves for a long time and requires only one thing from the owners - timely recharging of batteries using a charger
Some manufacturers produce products with advanced functionality. Smart devices take on not only the standard on / off control of bulbs, but also regulate the intensity of the lighting and the degree of illumination of the room. A special component, a dimmer, ensures the operability of this mode.
A device equipped with a dimmer allows you to set the maximum level of saturation of the light flux that is most convenient for yourself. This action is carried out by holding or scrolling the operating button located on the switch itself
The purpose of the dimmer is to adjust the electrical power responsible for the brightness of the light. The device works normally with both LED and traditional incandescent lamps.
Distinctive features of wireless devices
Modern wireless circuit breakers made under different brands are similar in design and operation.
Devices differ in such parameters as:
- type of control (push-button, touch, remote);
- the ability to control the intensity of the light flux in the room (whether or not);
- the number of devices to be controlled (from 1 to 8, depending on the model and manufacturer).
In addition to the above positions, there are significant differences in functionality. The bulk of the devices simply controls the on / off light in the rooms.
Only advanced models are equipped with such additional features as:
- delayed response - the device does not activate or deactivate immediately when the button is pressed, but a little later, for example, while a person is going to bed or leaving the room;
- multi-channel control - it is possible to configure several channels, allowing you to simultaneously turn on several devices at once, even located in different rooms of the same building;
- touch panel - there are no buttons that over time can lose sensitivity and fail. To activate the equipment, just touch the display;
- the presence of Wi-Fi - the extension allows you to send a signal through the available gadgets such as a smartphone, tablet or computer with Internet access.
The wider the functionality of the device, the higher its cost.
Wireless type switches look attractive, easily fit into the interior and give the interior decoration elegance and a stylish, modern look
The premium class includes “smart” wireless switches with an extended coverage radius (up to 350 meters), equipped with an internal energy generator, a touch control panel and the possibility of multi-control of the lighting system.
Such devices are usually mounted in large-sized houses, large apartments or country cottages with an extensive lighting system. Budget models include simple battery-powered models. Their coverage area is limited to 20-50 meters, which is enough for an average city apartment.
Classification by type of management
According to the control method, wireless switches are divided into three groups. The first includes electronic devices that control the lighting system using mechanical buttons. The second includes models with touch control.
Wireless switches can have either one working key or 2-3. This makes it possible to connect several lighting devices to the control module at once. True, the cost of multi-keyboard products will be slightly higher than that of analogues with one key
The third group consists of devices equipped with a remote control. He gives digital signals to the switch, which receives them and activates or deactivates lighting devices.
When controlling the switch, the remote control does not give noticeable interference and does not adversely affect the operation of other equipment available in the house. Neither walls, nor furniture, nor any other vertical elements of the environment interfere with the movement of radio waves
The presence of the remote allows the owner to simultaneously activate up to 8 wireless systems and allows you to adjust the lighting in the entire apartment or house without getting up from the couch.
The radius of the device depends on criteria such as:
- general layout of the room;
- specific design features;
- type of materials on which the working components are placed.
The switch itself is equipped with an autonomous power supply unit, which receives the necessary energy from the batteries. The range of remote controls is usually 25 meters. For the correct maintenance of large rooms, it is recommended to install a repeater, otherwise the signal will simply not “reach” the receiving station.
Scope of devices
The scope of use of wireless devices is very wide. Models are installed in apartments where there is a need to install a rocker switch or to transfer an old traditional switch, but this is hindered by the structural features of the room, household appliances and furniture.
In case of urgent need, the wireless switch can be installed not only on the wall, but also on the mirror or inside one of the shelves of the cabinet. Regardless of the location, the module will function efficiently and provide comfortable control of lighting fixtures
To correct the errors of incorrectly made wiring, you no longer need to dismantle the external wall decoration and punch new strobe channels. Installation of the wireless switch instantly solves a problem. It can be placed in any convenient place, forever forgetting about the difficulties associated with a home lighting system.
Installing a wireless device is the least time-consuming and cheapest way to ensure comfortable control of the lighting system. The switch can be installed even in rooms with high humidity and extreme temperature changes.
Lack of free space in the living room is another reason for installing a wireless module. The device can be placed on a minimum area and even built into any piece of furniture.
For wooden buildings, where electrical wiring equipment is associated with increased security measures, wireless elements are more than relevant. Of course, you can organize external wiring, however, this is not always consistent with the interior and often spoils the attractiveness of the room.
In addition, open electrical wires are vulnerable to mechanical damage from residents, children and animals. To protect yourself and your home, it’s wiser to install wireless modules and no longer worry that a force majeure situation (fire, short circuit, etc.) can occur as a result of damage to the wire.
To organize hidden wiring in a wooden structure is problematic and unsafe. A lifesaver for the hosts here will be the invoice wireless switch. You do not need to call an electrician to install it. The work is simple and even an inexperienced home master can handle it.
If the room is divided into locations, each of which requires its own type of lighting, it is not necessary to do colossal work and pull the wiring to all the switches.
Simply install a wireless device that can control multiple light sources and use the remote control to turn on or off the lighting as needed.
When all repair work has been completed in the room and the walls are decorated with a finish coating (wallpaper, fabric, painting, tile, laminate, etc.), but it is urgently necessary to equip another switch, it makes no sense to dismantle the finish and punch additional strobe channels.
It is better to install a practical wireless type device. It will take a minimum of time, and the appearance of the room will not be affected.
To control the lighting system in large-sized cottages, conference rooms, long corridors and other large-scale spaces, wireless modules are simply created. They allow you to turn on the light, being at a great distance from the room or even from the street.
If the building has historical value (old houses, museums, etc.) and making changes to interior solutions is considered unacceptable, it is worth using wireless switches. They will provide full control of the lighting system and easily “hide” in furniture, without betraying their presence and belonging to modern life.
Improving the comfort of your home is an excellent reason to install a wireless system. It will allow owners to control the lighting of rooms and utility rooms, literally, at the touch of a button and adjust the light flux intensity according to personal needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Systems
Wireless devices for controlling lighting systems are practical, convenient and modern.
The main advantages of the modules include such positions as:
- an elementary installation that does not entail the dismantling of the finishing walls, ditching and laying additional wiring branches;
- the ability to immediately control all the lighting devices available in the room through a single control panel (smartphone, tablet, desktop computer with Internet access);
- a wide radius of the receiving signal from 20 to 350 meters, depending on the model, layout and degree of workload of the room with furniture and interior elements;
- absolute operational safety for residents - the device is designed for a minimum level of operating current and even with careless use or violation of structural integrity will not cause any harm to human health.
The list of shortcomings is not so wide, but, nevertheless, there are several important points in it.
Most often, wireless modules are reproached for a higher cost than wired counterparts and the inability to use the system if the battery is completely discharged in the remote control
Unstable Wi-Fi negatively affects the performance of the device. The receiver does not pick up a weak, poorly expressed signal, and blocks the user's ability to turn on / off home lighting devices.
What to consider before buying?
You should purchase a wireless module in a specialized store, without fail taking into account such product characteristics as:
- type of bulbs available for control;
- dimensions and general appearance of the product (the material of which the case is made, colors, shape and number of keys);
- operating voltage range;
- number of channels;
- signal coverage radius;
- maximum allowable load during operation;
- rated current level;
- factory equipment;
- list of operating frequencies;
- a method for transmitting a command signal;
- encoding (presence or absence);
- type of transmitter power (generator, battery);
- the period declared by the manufacturer for which the battery capacity is sufficient;
- principle of fastening the device;
- cost.
In addition, you need to find out from the seller what warranty period the manufacturer gives for the products and where the service centers are located. Full information will help you make the right choice and purchase exactly the model that, in all respects, will satisfy the requirements for the device by the buyer.
Top 5 most popular products
The market for lighting products and related communication modules offers a wide range of wireless switches.
All of them are similar in principle, but have a different configuration and seriously differ from each other in appearance, shape, color and available functionality. The choice is made by the buyer, based on their own needs and financial capabilities.
Features of the Feron TM-75 module
Feron TM-75 is made of durable plastic and is designed for a base voltage of 220V. It works correctly with pendant multi-lamp chandeliers, LED, spotlights and track lights, sconces and floor lamps.
The module is equipped with a remote control, a special holder and a proprietary battery element (battery). Refers to budget models, but at the same time reliably and efficiently serves for many years
The wireless unit is equipped with 2 channels with good power. For each of them you can connect a separate group of devices. There is a delay off function, and the coverage radius is 30 meters.
Introducing Inted 220V
The Inted 220V wireless radio switch has a neat but durable plastic case, 1, 2, or 3 keys and a receiver unit. It operates on a voltage of 220V. The exposure range ranges from 10-50 meters. Bearing walls, false panels and partitions do not affect the signal transmission in any way.
The device receives full-value power from the rechargeable battery of type A23. One is enough for uninterrupted operation of the device for one year.
Fastens to a wall by means of a double-sided adhesive tape (for single-key products) or by means of self-tapping screws (for devices with 2-3 keys).
A brief overview of the model INTED-1-CH
The INTED-1-CH device has an operating voltage of 220 V and can control a system with a base lamp power of up to 900 watts. It receives signals from the remote control and retransmits them to a distance of up to 100 meters.
The INTED-1-CH is equipped with good functionality and is able to correctly control not only home lighting equipment, but also an alarm system
The only negative is the moisture-resistant housing. Because of this, it is not recommended to install the device in wet rooms or on the street without special additional protection.
Characteristic of the device Sapphire-2503
The Sapphire-2503 infrared apparatus, in addition to the basic “filling,” is equipped with a progressive dimmer. True, this element only works correctly with traditional incandescent lamps. The unit is not suitable for controlling energy-efficient light sources.
The original feature of Sapphire-2503 is the function of automatically turning off the lighting after a certain period of time. Even if everyone left home and forgot to turn off the light bulb in one of the rooms, the system will save the owners from irrational energy consumption
The case of the model is made of high-strength modern plastic. Permissible operational load is 40-400 watts.
Benefits of Feron TM72
Feron TM72 looks elegant, fits perfectly into various interior solutions and acts on electrical appliances located within a radius of 30 meters.
One of the main advantages of the model is the presence of a delay function of the circuit breaker. The interval suitable for yourself can be set individually within 10-60 seconds
The device has two channels for connecting various light sources. The power of each of them reaches 1 kW.
This makes it possible to fully use a variety of lighting sources in the home system.
An interesting overview of wireless switches. A clear and detailed description of the design features. The principle of operation and rules for the use of equipment.
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Equipping a lighting system at home, it is worth equipping it with a wireless switch. Installation of the device will not require dismantling the external decoration of the room, making gates in the walls and laying new wiring.
Installation works will take a small amount of time and provide the owners with the opportunity to control home lighting fixtures in the most convenient mode for themselves.
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