DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) provides precise and versatile lighting control. We have seen DALI technology become simpler to implement over the years and is increasingly being used as an intelligent control system in individual house projects.
"In the past, DALI programming was heavier and more laborious, which made it worthwhile to use it in large industrial and public space projects where automatic lighting control was important for availability and power savings. We also recommend exploring this option when considering a home lighting control system. There are many DALI professionals on the market, but for a technically oriented person, commissioning can be done entirely on their own, or with light commissioning support," says LedStore entrepreneur Janne Halttu.
Implementation of a DALI system
DALI can be implemented in a few different ways, but the basic elements of control are
- DALI-gateway / master centre / bus,
- DALI power supplies
- DALI relays and dimmers
- DALI controllers.
In many cases DALI automation also uses motion sensors. All devices are physically connected to the DALI line, which is a two-pole conductor. The choice of implementation depends on the size of the system and the control needs and operating requirements of the site.
DALI has the advantage of precise and flexible lighting control. DALI control allows subtle dimming and control of individual lights or groups of lights in monotone, colour temperature controlled (CCT) and RGB+W+CCT colour controlled lights.
Because DALI uses digital signals for communication instead of analogue signals, the devices receive the same dimming values. This gives very effective and precise control of the different light groups. The controllers are connected to the DALI system via two wires, so there is no need to change the batteries in DALI, unlike in wireless systems.
DALI controllers come in many types and styles. What they have in common is that they are connected to the DALI line by two wires.
Introduction of DALI
For Windows users, there is free software to set up the DALI system and make the necessary automations and timings for the lights. The software is relatively easy to use if you have a technical orientation. You can configure individual lighting settings, schedules and groups so that lighting is precisely adjusted to suit different spaces, situations or times of day. You can also operate lights from wall controls if the timed automatic setting is not to your liking at that particular moment.
DALI devices work together regardless of the manufacturer. DALI2 certification requires this. So you can combine components from different manufacturers if necessary. The openness of the system is one of its strengths.
DALI works best when it is designed and built from the ground up with wiring in mind. However, DALI also works with other smart home systems, such as Zigbee, so you can extend it to other systems. Power supplies and other relays and controllers are specified according to your needs and groupings.
LedStore has a wide range of certified power supplies for 24 VDC and DC lights, as well as products that understand light temperature and colour control, so there is a DALI transformer/power supply for almost every lighting need.
If you want to connect a light that is not already DALI-compatible, you can pair it with a control device that allows you to convert a light or a whole lighting group to DALI control. Take a look at LedStore's DALI product range.
Lighting design and lighting control design under one roof
You get a complete service from LedStore. We design both lighting and lighting control, and deliver the whole package with more than 15 years of experience. We know our own LedStore.fi products. Our product range includes home and office lights, controls, design and custom-made production. Discover our services, products and extensive photo and article content in our online shop. We are physically located at Koivuhaas, Mesikukantie 16, 01300 Vantaa, Vantaa. We serve consumer, retailer and business customers in the shop during opening hours (Mon, Fri 8.30-15.30, Tue-Thu 8.30-17.00, Sat 10-14). The store's contact details are: myynti@ledstore.fi, 045 251 4510. Visit the store online or come and see us!
