This month marks the beginning of our new "Ask The Lighting Guy" feature, which will focus on common questions in the lighting industry. This time we will be providing a brief review of various dimming methods. The most common types of dimming are 2-Wire Forward Phase, 2-Wire Reverse Phase, 3-Wire (Lutron), 4-Wire (0-10V), and Digital Signal Dimming Interfaces.
2-Wire Forward Phase, also known as Triac or Leading Edge Dimming, was designed to work with 120V incandescent fixtures using A19 and PAR lamps. The technology has evolved and can be used with some types of LED drivers. They are the least expensive type and provide smooth dimming down to 10%. 2-Wire Reverse Phase Dimming is used in Electronic Low Voltage applications, and can be used with LED fixtures. It allows smooth dimming down to 5%, and costs a little more than Forward Phase. It is important not to interchange these two systems as use of the incorrect one can cause buzzing, flickering, and RFI.
3-Wire dimming was developed by Lutron for use in Fluorescent and CFL applications, and allows continuous dimming down to 1%. 4-Wire, or 0-10V Dimming, is used with commercial fluorescent, daylight and occupancy sensing, and LED systems. It can be used with retrofits, allows dimming down to 10% with standard driver, and is compatible with a wide variety of controls and building automation systems.
Digital Signal Dimming Interfaces have evolved from various technologies. One of the most common is DMX for theatrical lighting. The DALI standard is used for controlling electronic ballasts, drivers, transformers, and LEDs. This allows the system to be capable of addressing individual fixtures and be customized to each individual application with precise control.
Look for the next installment of "Ask The Lighting Guy" in our January issue, and stop by one of our locations for all your dimming questions and needs. Our friendly "Lighting Guys" are ready to assist you.
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