The three generations of lighting control:

• First Generation – N+1 signal control: cables consists of multiple wires (origin of the N+1 designation), emphasis on dual access control from both local and central, complicated signal wire wiring, and unable to expand.
• Second Generation – evolved into digital trunk: wiring method changed to full 2-way system consisting only of 2 signal wires, all controllers are now addressable, with configuration groups and patterns. Digital switches have also changed much compared to first generation. Application capabilities can be programmed through software.
• Third Generation – evolved into energy saving, touch panel and networkable: integration of classic switches and ordinary sensors, controllers have built-in interactive energy saving logic programming, controller programs are designed to be easy to setup, centralized control have touch panels to replace walls of digital switches.

Viewing a Lighting Control System in the Proper Light

A lighting control is not merely a high technology ornament to be placed for showcasing the technological sophistication of a building, but rather it is a very fundamental part of the building. For the following reasons:

1. It is the most practical method for wiring the lighting circuits in any large open public space.
2. It satisfies the building owner’s need to save on energy, at the same time allowing for ease of use by the local user, without contradicting each other.
3. Intricate control of lighting greatly improves the quality and stylishness of any space.
4. The correspondence of the switches to the lighting can be reconfigured to match the varying needs of the space.
5. To match the energy saving policy of a country, a smart energy saving lighting control system becomes the most important player to fulfill such a mandate.
6. In order to save on costs, having a lighting control system is a must have with its ability to reduce the needed wiring, less manpower needed, and saved electricity bills.

Requirements for Centralized Control

• Realtime feedback: The status of the lights at the central control should be synchronized with the local site.
• Ease of Management: With a touch panel, management is easier than ever, expansion is also easy as there is no need for additional wall space nor wiring.
• Multiple central control: A single system should be able to allow for multiple centralized control locations for multiple access and mutual redundancy.
• Networkable: Being able to connect the system to a network and to the Internet means that distance is no longer an issue and the user can control the system from anywhere whether it be through a computer of a mobile phone.

Digital Switches

• Local switches: these are switches located in near the lights that they control and are placed for the benefit of the local user, and not the other way around.
• Simplified and reduced wiring: by using digital signal cables; and results in ease of expansion.
• There is no conflict between central and local control; both have equal access.
• Multi-function buttons: these can be used for single, group or pattern modes of operation.

Adaptability of the Terminal Units

• Suitable for all types of luminaires: especially for LED lamps, with the capability to handle high inrush currents.
• Control for dimming, roll up doors, curtains, shade blinds, air conditioners and others.
• Can be used in conjunction with ordinary sensors, card readers and classic wall switches.