Controlling light

The control of any lighting system is by the type of switch choice. The standard is a simple rocker: on - off type but a layered lighting arrangement will require dimming modules at each switch point and these come in a bewildering array of choices.

The simplest is the rotary dimmer at the switch plate but these have limits to how many lights can be dimmed on any on circuit. These can also emit a low 'buzz' when working and depending on how hard they are working, generate a lot of heat.

Then there are centrally located systems where all the various circuits run to. The main dimmer unit is located at this point and is connected via a data cable to various switch points in the house. These switch points use digital signals to control each circuit and the dimming is done at the main unit. These systems are very reliable, suitable for larger premises and are used widely by architects.