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Universal dimming module

Description

The universal dimming module has two channels for dimming light circuits. This dimmer is equipped with interference suppression of PLC signals.

Overview

Operation

The transmission signal of the controller activates one or several outputs on the dimming module. These outputs can also
be activated or deactivated manually using the buttons on the dimming module. Please remember that the activation or
deactivation is only temporary as it will be overruled by the next bus communication.

After a power failure, the dimming module will restore the settings from before the power failure.


You can select the type of lighting you wish to dim by adjusting the DIP switches on the front of the module. Use the
potentiometer to select the minimum light intensity for each channel on the front of the module.


Permitted loads

Check the table below to find out the maximum load for each type of lighting at an ambient temperature of 45 °C.


Do not use the dimming module to adjust motors used in the installation.


The dimmer is fitted with a thermal protection device. If the temperature rises too much due to an overload, the dimmer
will automatically switch itself off. In that case:

  • verify that the load does not exceed the maximum permitted load. Remember to take into account the reactive power of ferromagnetic transformers.
  • check the temperature inside the electrical cabinet (45 ℃ maximum).
  • check whether mixed loads are being used.
  • verify that the setting for the minimum light intensity is not too low.
  • check whether the correct type of lighting has been selected.

PLC interference suppression

This dimmer is equipped with interference suppression of PLC signals. 
This integrated interference suppression attempts to remove as many interfering signals as possible from the mains in order for most lamps to function optimally, without flashing or humming.
Please note: Due to technical restrictions, it is not possible to match the quality of industrial PLC filters. Read the FAQ on dimming at www.niko.eu/faq.


Installation

Wiring diagram


  • Ensure that the installation is disconnected from the mains when setting up the electrical cabinet.
  • Observe all AREI regulations in force when connecting the load.
  • Preferably position the dim modules at the bottom of the electrical cabinet, yet not underneath, above or close to heat-sensitive elements such as the connected controller or an extra power supply.
  • Check the temperature inside the electrical cabinet. Provide extra ventilation if the temperature exceeds 35°C. If necessary, install a fan. Ensure that any air is adequately vented at the top of the electrical cabinet.



Follow the steps below to install the module:

  1. Press the dimming module onto the DIN rail until it clicks into place.
  2. Connect the L phase wire and the N neutral wire to the L and N screw terminals respectively.
  3. Connect the circuits you wish to dim to the outputs.
  4. Connect the dim module to the module before it. Slide the sliding contact of this module to the right until it clicks into the dim module. This will ensure that the bus and the power supply voltage are connected.


Selecting the type of lighting

Adjust the position of the DIP switch to manually select the type of lighting you wish to dim. Follow the instructions in the
diagram below.

(*) These lamp profiles are equipped with a boost function. This means that upon switching on, the lamp will shine bright briefly before going to the desired dimming level.


Select profile for LED lamps

To select the right profile for the placed LED lamps, proceed as follows:

  • Successively try the profiles LED 1 and LED 2. If one of these profiles operates properly, proceed to Setting the minimum level (see below).
  • If not, successively try the profiles Incandescent lamp or Halogen lamp with electronic transformer. If one of these profiles operates properly, you don't have to do anything further.
  • If not, the placed LED lamps need a lot of energy to start up. Therefore you should choose profile LED 3 or LED 4. These profiles have a boost function ensuring that when starting up, the lamps receive enough energy to go into the desired dimming level.


We provide an example of the advantages and disadvantages of the final two options below:


Profile

Incandescent lamp or halogen lamp with
electronic transformer

LED 3 or LED 4
Advantage

The lamp does not briefly shine bright after
being switched on

The lamp can be dimmed until its minimum level
Disadvantages
  • The lamp cannot be dimmed until its minimum level
  • In certain cases the difference that can be reached in light output is limited

The lamp briefly shines bright after being switched
on, if a low dimming level was chosen


Switch the dimmer off and on after setting the minimum level. If the lamp is not on, select a lamp profile with boost
function (CFLi1, CFLi2, LED 3 or LED 4).


Setting the minimum level

To reach the (optimal) maximum reach of each lamp, the minimum level can be adjusted. Use a screwdriver to manually
adjust the minimum level. Turn the potentiometer to the right to increase the level. Turn to the left to reduce the level.
Follow the instructions in the diagram below.

Error codes

When the module is functioning properly, the STATUS LED will light up in TEST mode only. If one or several errors occur,
the LED will blink to indicate the error code of the error with the highest priority. The table below provides an overview of all
error codes.

LEDACTIONERRORPOSSIBLE CAUSES
STATUS LED

Blinks – one pulse per two
seconds.

Software error

Wrong software version.
Download the latest software version from
the Niko website to upgrade the module.

CHANNEL LED

Blinks – one pulse per two

seconds.

Overvoltage

The mains voltage is disconnected.
The load is disconnected.
The power is too high.
The lamp or cable used is faulty.
The thermal protection has been activated.
There is no transmission signal.
The minimum level is set too low.
The dimming profile is wrong.
A combination of the above.

Blinks – two pulses per two
seconds.

Short circuit

Blinks – three pulses per two
seconds.

Overload

Blinks – four pulses per two
seconds.

Overheating
Blinks rapidly.Module error



Technical data

  • input voltage: 230 Vac ± 10%, 50 Hz
  • ambient temperature: 0 - 45 °C
  • for use in locations with non-condensing humidity (30% - 70%)
  • dimming capacity per channel: 5 - 400 VA (at 45 °C) or 5 - 500 VA (at 35 °C)
  • minimum light intensity and phase control or reverse phase control can be adjusted manually
  • 2 x 4 screw terminals for 3 x 1.5 mm² or 2 x 2.5 mm² or 1 x 4 mm²
  • sliding contact to connect the module to the following module on the DIN rail
  • in conformity with EN 60669-2-1
  • short-circuit and overheating protections
  • CE marked
  • dimensions: DIN 4U
  • Equipped with interference suppression of PLC signals


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