Light switch with remote control: types + overview of TOP brands
Remote lighting control is widely used in residential buildings, administrative and industrial premises. A typical process device is a light switch with a remote control. Remote control is based on various principles.
In our article, we describe in detail all types of devices that allow you to control devices and lighting systems without direct contact. Independent masters with us will find a step-by-step guide to their installation. To facilitate the selection, we brought the most popular models on the market.
The content of the article:
Principles of operation of remote devices
Modern devices that turn on / off light at a distance usually work on the basis of radiation / fixation of waves of a certain frequency (sound, infrared, ultrasound, etc.).
Such devices, as a rule, consist of two parts:
- A receiver on microcircuits, which is installed near a lighting device or a mechanical switch connected by power wires.
- Remote control (remote control).
Let us consider in more detail the most common varieties of such devices.
Infrared switch
The category of devices operates on the basis of an emitter of infrared waves, remote control of which is carried out from a special unit connected to an open circuit. This makes it possible to turn on / off the lamp using the remote control.
A number of manufacturers (BJC, Duwi, Simon, Steinel) have found a way to avoid this problem. The models manufactured by these enterprises are equipped with controllers that convert infrared radiation into a radio signal, which allows to increase the range and overcome obstacles encountered on the way.
In some cases, commands converted to radio frequencies are converted to IR again at the output, which is necessary to control certain types of devices (air conditioners). Another disadvantage is the insufficient range of infrared waves (up to 20 meters), which can be overcome by using repeaters.
Devices for controlling light over the air
Such devices are often included in Smart Home systemsbut can be used independently. In radio frequency remote switches, the command transmission process is carried out using the remote control, the signal of which is transmitted to the controller responsible for controlling the light.
For the passage of information, a special range of radio frequencies is allocated (usually 315, 433, 868 MHz). The power of radio transmitters for such devices is 10 milliwatts, which is regulated by law.
Despite the small indicator, the range of the devices is quite extensive: in open areas it reaches 100 meters, and in spaces with obstacles - up to 25 meters.
Such a range of the device (it can be strengthened by repeaters and other devices), as well as the ability to overcome obstacles are the main reasons for the prevalence of radio switches, which are used both in everyday life, and in industrial and administrative institutions.
The scheme of operation of radio frequency devices
To transmit a radio signal, the following set of equipment is required:
- battery (ordinary batteries);
- remote controller connected to the load and the network;
- a remote control reminiscent of a remote control for a video or television device. There are pocket minipools or keyfob devices with 2-6 buttons; similar devices are used to control a small group of devices.
The remote control controller is mounted in a wall, a lighting fixture (chandelier glass) or under a suspended ceiling.
A similar device is compatible with various types of lamps: incandescent, halogen, fluorescent (conventional and compact), conventional and linear led, regardless of whether they are located singly or in groups.
During radio control, the signal is transmitted in the form of a packet of information: it contains a command, the address of the device to which the instruction is intended, and also a checksum. Radio waves are received immediately by all receiving devices, however, only the device for which the command is intended responds due to the address.
The transmitted checksum is used to verify the information: the quantity sent by the transmitter must match the number calculated by the receiver. If the results diverge, the device does not work.
For stable error-free operation, each command is transmitted to the transmitters repeatedly (at least three times), which somewhat slows down the system’s operational efficiency. On radio switches, a button is also usually provided that allows you to turn off the remote control and control the device in manual mode.
Mobile or Internet control
In modern devices, the function of adjusting the lighting using a smartphone or mobile phone may be provided. In this case, control is performed via the Internet using special applications that are installed on a smartphone or computer. Typically, the software is part of the kit that came with the device at the time of purchase.
Such devices have a large, almost unlimited range, but require the presence of Wi-Fi or other access to the global network. Using phones and smartphones, you can turn on / off the light, adjust its intensity, set special modes for devices (standard, custom).
Devices for turning off the light, equipped with remote controls, may also have additional functions, which include:
- the ability to adjust the level of light intensity;
- specially installed stationary button that allows you to find the lost remote control;
- equipped with a timer, light sensor or motion.
It is only important to remember that each additional option increases the cost of the device.
Remote control system selection
When choosing a device with remote control, you need to pay attention to a number of factors. It should be checked whether the power of the power unit corresponds to a similar indicator of the lighting device, as well as to the voltage required to power the switch. The latter should match the number of volts in the network to which you plan to connect the remote device.
It is also advisable to assess the need for additional functions that models are often equipped with: on the one hand, they significantly expand the scope of the device, and on the other hand, in specific situations they often remain unclaimed.
Finally, the design of the device, its shape, color, size, the presence of additional illumination, and other factors are of particular importance.
Advantages and disadvantages of remote control devices
Devices that allow you to control lighting using the remote control have certain pros and cons. The most important advantage is ease of installation and ease of connection: installation of the device does not require special knowledge.
Comfort in operation and the possibility of smooth adjustment of lighting devices attracts attention. In some models, there is also a programming function of the device, with which you can set the "presence effect".
In this case, the device will turn on / off automatically at a certain time, which can be useful in an empty apartment.
The use of remote control devices helps reduce electricity consumption, as well as extend the life of various types of lamps. In addition, the remote switch makes it possible to simultaneously control several light sources or even other devices from one remote control at once.
The disadvantages of such devices include false or spontaneous triggering; weak radio signal that may not pass through the obstacle; possible effects on pacemakers or hearing aids.
Open circuit breakers may not work properly due to precipitation. In addition, the remote control may run out of batteries at the most inopportune moment.
Connection of remote switches
The installation scheme of such devices often depends on the bulbs with which the device will work, as well as on other factors, so before starting assembly, you should carefully study the instructions that came with the model.
As a rule, products are designed for a standard voltage of 220 volts, however, with specific requirements of the lamp, this indicator can be underestimated.
If the system includes a voltage-reducing device, you first need to mount the control unit, and then the transformer. When a button is pressed on the remote control, the power unit supplies power either directly to the bulb or to a step-down transformer (depending on the light source). Most often, such a scheme is used when lighting rooms with LEDs.
Depending on the model, the power unit may have one or more channels: the latter option allows you to simultaneously manage multiple devices at once.
Experts recommend connecting the remote device through a traditional mechanical switch, which can be used if the remote control device fails.
Overview of popular DV models
Similar electrical equipment is produced by manufacturers in different countries.
Popular Wookee Radio Switches
Remote devices manufactured by this company consist of a kit including a radio signal receiving unit and a remote control. For comfortable use, the kit also includes a holder. The holes specially made on it make it easy to attach this part to a vertical surface with ordinary screws.
The models are equipped with two switches, so that the devices can operate with different electrical networks. The maximum load in each can reach 500 watts. The radius of the apparatus is 100 meters in open space and 20 meters indoors. In order for the device to work correctly, it is recommended to install it together with the relay in the junction box.
Nootekhnika - based on infrared waves
A well-known Belarusian company produces a line of switches with remote control based on infrared radiation "Sapphire". The models presented in the series are made of high quality polymers that are predominantly white.
Products are equipped with dimmers that allow you to adjust the power of the energy flow, which extends the life of the lamps. The parameters set during the last power-up are saved when the device is restarted, and this reduces the time for choosing the desired brightness parameter.
Many models provide a function of simulating the presence in the owner’s house, associated with the periodic turning off / on of lamps in the house. The disadvantages of the models of this company include low-sensitivity sensors, which makes manual control difficult: for correct operation, all manipulations must be performed with the palm of your hand.
German quality and design by the Jung brand
A well-known German company manufacturing electrical products pays attention to both a high-quality mechanism and an impeccable design.
Models of remote light switches manufactured at the enterprises of this company have a standard set of functions, high build quality, the use of first-class parts and accessories. A wide range of variously designed products allows you to choose a model that perfectly fits into the most sophisticated interior.
The company’s catalog contains anthracite instruments (with black polished surfaces), bright models made of acrylic and colored glass, universal products of a traditional form made of steel and aluminum, democratic devices made of plastic.
A separate series combines devices with moisture protection, which are intended for use in rooms with a high content of water vapor, for example, in bathrooms.
Practical Master Kit models
The most popular devices of this brand are remote switches MK343 and MK344. The first option allows you to remotely switch over two independent radio channels (the permissible power of each 300 watts).
Moreover, if the power unit is equipped with a radiator, the device can withstand a power of 1000 watts. To control the device, a transmitter-key fob equipped with four buttons is used.
A more advanced modification is the MK344 model, which provides not only on / off, but also smooth adjustment of light intensity through two separate channels.
All functions can be performed using 4 buttons on the remote control: two of them serve to supply the load, and the remaining two to control the brightness of the lamps.
Compact and easy to use SOSO
The company specializes in producing small size wireless switches. Such devices that can operate with high power (up to 3.5 kW) can be placed in the mounting box behind the power switch or socket.
The power unit in this case is mounted as follows. Selecting the appropriate load indicator, you must turn off the mains. Like a conventional switch, a power block is installed, which must be connected to phase and zero.
The network phase wire (brown) passes through the terminal block and is fed to the L-terminal of the power unit, while the zero wire is attached to terminal N. The socket, in turn, is connected to the block output terminals N and L, after which the device can be installed on it .
It is also important to activate the command memorization mode, for which you need to press the corresponding button. After that, you need to give a signal from the radio remote control. An indicator of remembering this information is the double blinking of the LED.
The rules and guidelines for choosing a wireless light switch will introduce next articlefully dedicated to this interesting subject.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
The video below contains an overview of the device for a remote lighting control model:
Detailed instructions for connecting a two-channel remote control to the chandelier:
Using a variety of light switches with remote control panels, you can remotely control the operation of lighting devices. Such devices increase the standard of living, increase the life of the luminaires and reduce electricity costs.
A wide range of devices of this type allows you to choose a model that meets the needs and capabilities of the user, and ease of installation contributes to the implementation of self-assembly of the product with minimal time and effort.
Tell us about how you selected a switch with a remote control to equip your own apartment / house. Perhaps you have useful technological nuances that will be useful to site visitors. Please write comments in the block form below, ask questions, publish photos on the topic of the article.
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When they made repairs in the apartment, they came across such switches and decided to install in the bedroom for the sake of experiment and assessment of convenience. It turned out to be really very convenient, for example, when you read in bed before going to bed, and you don’t feel like getting up to turn off the light. If not for the cost, then I would gladly put such devices in all rooms.
Hello! Now I am doing repairs in the apartment. I want to put myself a light switch with a remote control so far in one room. My wife saw on one forum and said that she wants the same, since you can turn off the light without getting out of bed. I was also interested, and began to search for information. I want to install this switch myself, it’s so much cheaper. I had a question: how often does this switch fail, and can I turn on the light without this design? Thanks for the answer.
Of course, the switch is duplicated and you can turn it off without the remote control, just like a regular one. As for reliability - it's just a remote control, the same as for example on a TV or air conditioner. Accordingly, reliability is at the same high level. He usually does not have false positives, but there is relatively sensitivity to interference, especially from the Chinese.
At first electronic toilets appeared, as it turned out, they were originally used for the disabled for convenience, but they tightly entered our lives. Now we want this switch, and then what will happen? shit suction and nipple !? no, I don’t mind, I’m just wondering ...
Good evening. We installed the remote control in 4 modes:
1. Spotlights light bulb.
2. Bezel of spotlights.
3. Chandelier.
4. All together.
But all this can work only with the remote control. Rather, from the switch you need to click several times to turn on the whole light.
Are there remotes with a memory function, so that everything is always turned on, and partially turn off the remote if necessary?
Good afternoon, Anna. The question rests on the controller, which perceives the signals of the remote control. Your controller is multi-channel, controlling various lighting elements. If it is programmable, then the functions can be adjusted - put “Together” in the first position.