Talk to LEDs

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Electrical Construction and Maintenance

Dave Ranieri, Lithonia Lighting

Tue, 2011-11-22 15:04

Understanding the full potential of LEDs and lighting controls

(click here to see Figure)
LEDs are unique in many ways, but perhaps the most intriguing aspect of their distinctiveness is their affinity to
be controlled. Conventional light sources do not like to be controlled and actually demonstrate diminished
performance, such as reduced efficacy and life expectancy, as controls are introduced. LEDs, on the other hand,
are a different breed. In fact, the more they are controlled, the longer they last and the more efficiently they
operate. Because all of the components (LED light engines and controls) are now digital, solid-state, intelligent
devices, they work together seamlessly, delivering a level of performance and simplicity that is unprecedented
with lighting systems.
When paired with well-designed and integrated digital components, LED lighting systems are fully capable of
executing common lighting control strategies, such as manual dimming, scheduling, occupancy sensing, and
daylight harvesting. Moreover, the solid-state nature of LED components easily facilitates the use of advanced
control strategies like lumen design and management, high-end trim tuning at the space and luminaire level, as
well as integrated building management systems and utility demand response. Because LEDs essentially put a
chip in every luminaire, digital addressability and local control flexibility become standard features.
The inherent compatibility of LEDs with digital lighting controls holds tremendous promise beyond dimming
and other typical controls options. LEDs are digital light engines that can interface directly to onboard luminaire
control logic. The result is an intelligent luminaire that has the ability to monitor and respond to its
environment and perform pre-programmed tasks to further conserve input power/reduce luminaire
maintenance. Potential tasks include: managing lumen output actively over time; monitoring and adapting to
variations in ambient temperature; monitoring system life; and detecting a fault in the system for quicker
troubleshooting and maintenance.
In addition, the LED luminaire is digitally addressable, allowing it to easily network and communicate with
other luminaires and similar control devices in the same room or throughout a building. Network connections
can easily be made using standard Cat. 5 cabling for true plug-and-play convenience. The ability to use simple
Cat. 5 cabling to connect LED fixtures to other fixtures and controls delivers two critical benefits:
1. As with computers, Cat. 5 cabling allows digital information to freely and easily flow from fixture to
fixture and from fixtures to various room controls or building controls. This, in turn, allows controls to be
embedded right into the fixture and as soon as the cable is connected enables the fixture to become
its own IP address. This means its automatically recognized (addressable) and can deliver its own data
about how it is performing. Likewise, it can receive directions on what to do.
2. Cat. 5 cabling is easier to install and make changes to, because it is very flexible. As a result, the initial

07-03-15 6:02 PM

Talk to LEDs

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http://ecmweb.com/print/lighting-amp-control/talk-leds

setup cost both in terms of time and materials (compared to standard 2-wire systems) is significantly
less. Because space typically has to be reconfigured over time, it is simple to move and readdress fixtures.
They no longer have to be zoned or grouped each fixture can be recognized and placed anywhere in the
plan.
We are only now beginning to understand and unlock the full potential of LEDs and controls. Therefore, its
important if not critical to consider more than just the luminaires and components when comparing and
specifying LED lighting.
Investigate how controls can enhance LED lighting benefits and what this means over the long term for a facility
when seeking to improve lighting quality, reduce operating costs, and incorporate lighting into overall building
management systems. Ultimately, digital lighting systems will more easily connect with intelligent buildings.
Ranieri is the VP and general manager of Lithonia Lightings Commercial Indoor Business Unit. He can be
reached at: dave.ranieri@acuitybrands.com.
Source URL: http://ecmweb.com/lighting-amp-control/talk-leds

07-03-15 6:02 PM