High-tech wiring products are used for efficient control of household appliances. They have many auxiliary options and attract the attention of users with their versatility. Such devices traditionally include a smart light switch that works in automatic mode and is controlled from remote distances.
Equipment and principle of operation of the device
The set of the smart light switch includes two complementary devices: the receiver of the useful signal and its transmitter. The first is a miniature relay controlled by a smartphone or remote control. After receiving the control signal, the electronic relay closes the power supply circuit of the illuminator.
The switch transmitter is compact and is mounted next to the lighting fixture. The executive unit with the relay is installed in the home switchboard or directly in the luminaire.
The transmitter function is performed by a conventional switch, modified taking into account the required functionality. When you press a key or send a command from the phone, a signal is generated in it, which is distributed over a radio channel or over a Wi-Fi network. After the switching circuit has been triggered, a response pulse is sent to the Control Unit, confirming this action. Full information about the ongoing processes is sent to the controller that controls the operation of the entire system or to the user's smartphone.
Varieties and functions of smart devices
A large assortment of smart switches controlled by radio channel or Wi-Fi network is presented on the domestic market. They differ in the way of connection and functionality, as well as in their external design. According to the features of the wiring diagram, they are distinguished:
- devices that switch only the phase conductor (without a working zero);
- devices for which a zero bus is required.
When considering the functionality of smart switches, the possibility of using them as a dimmer or a device capable of controlling the brightness of lighting stands out. In addition, they are used as conventional light switches operating in automatic mode. For this, the devices are equipped with special sensors that are sensitive to light and give a signal to turn on at dusk.
Another feature that the smart circuit breaker has is the ability to remotely control operating modes. The samples with this option are outwardly similar to typical switches, but in fact they are a modified remote control.
Some firms produce keyboard models that are built into the walls in place of traditional switches. Structurally, they consist of the same frame and keys as conventional devices. Since they do not need to be connected to the mains, but are powered by a built-in battery, any convenient place within the room is chosen for their installation. Products with this function are often used to control the operation of smart sockets.
Criterias of choice
When choosing a smart switch, it is taken into account that the implementation of all functions incorporated in it is possible only if the Internet is available. The following factors are also taken into account:
- Some product modifications are equipped with motion sensors and are much more expensive.
- If the device is supposed to be mounted outdoors or in rooms with high humidity, the degree of its IP protection is taken into account.
- When installing in a socket niche, special attention is paid to the dimensions of the purchased device.
Attention is drawn to the appearance and shape of the purchased device, as well as whether it fits into the interior of the room or not. It is possible to exclude the possibility of buying a low-quality product if you choose switches from well-known and well-proven manufacturers.
Installation and connection
The order of installation and connection of the smart switch depends on the selected model. If it is intended to control room lighting, the installation is only slightly different from the procedure for conventional products. The smart device is mounted in two stages: first, the signal receiver is connected, after which the control module is fixed at the installation site.
When connecting automatically controlled LED and halogen lamps to the mains, the safety requirements require the use of full wiring - phase and neutral conductors. In this case, the control modules are placed next to the lamp or inside the lighting fixture. Acoustic switches are installed in niches where conventional devices were located or next to a light source. The instructions attached to any smart device will help to facilitate self-installation.
Advantages and disadvantages
Remote controlled switches have a number of advantages:
- During installation, there is no need to lay a dedicated power supply line.
- It is possible to control light sources and other devices from one arbitrarily chosen point.
- Any modern device (PC, smartphone or tablet) is used as a control panel.
- Energy costs are reduced by an average of about 30-40 percent.
- High-tech devices are distinguished by a large range (up to 100 meters), taking into account the fact that radio emissions easily pass through obstacles encountered.
The intensity of the emitting signal is very low and does not harm living organisms. The main disadvantage of smart switches is the dependence of their functionality on the availability of an active Internet network.
Popular manufacturers of smart devices
Sonoff specializes in the production of modern wireless devices: sockets, switches and relays. The set of equipment includes a Russian-language instruction with specially designed applications.
Products from the Italian manufacturer Vitrum work according to the well-known Z-Wave technology. These devices are widely used in household “smart home” systems, allowing you to fully automate the light control procedure.
Also popular are the switches of the Chinese company Xiaomi, founded in 2010. The company manufactures high-tech electrical devices including power outlets and smart switches.
