For the efficient management of household appliances, high-tech wiring accessories are used. 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 controlled from remote distances.
Components and principle of operation of the device
The smart light switch kit includes two complementary devices: a useful signal receiver 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 illuminator power circuit.
The switch transmitter is compact and is mounted next to the light fixture. The actuating unit with the relay is installed in the home switchboard or directly in the lamp.
The transmitter function is performed by a conventional switch, modified taking into account the required functionality. When a key is pressed or a command is sent from the phone, a signal is generated in it, which is distributed over the air or over Wi-Fi. After the switching circuit is triggered, a response pulse is transmitted to the control module, confirming this action. Full information about the ongoing processes goes to the controller that controls the operation of the entire system or to the user's smartphone.
Varieties and functions of smart appliances
The domestic market offers a wide range of intelligent switches controlled by radio or Wi-Fi. They differ in the way of connection and functionality, as well as the external design. According to the features of the wiring diagram, they distinguish:
- devices switching only a phase core (without working zero);
- devices for which a zero bus is required.
When considering the functionality of smart switches, the possibility of their use as a dimmer or a device capable of controlling the brightness of lighting is especially highlighted. In addition, they are used as ordinary light switches operating in automatic mode. For this device are equipped with special sensors that are sensitive to light and give a signal to turn on at dusk.
Another feature that a smart circuit breaker has is the ability to remotely control operating modes. Possessing this option, the samples are similar in appearance to typical switches, but in fact they are a modified remote control.
Some companies 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 appliances. Since they do not need to be connected to the mains, but are powered by a built-in battery, any convenient place within the premises is chosen for their installation. Products with this function are often used to control the operation of smart sockets.
Criterias of choice
When choosing an intelligent switch, it is taken into account that the implementation of all the functions embedded in it is possible only if the Internet is available. The following factors are also taken into account:
- Some product modifications come 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 mounting in a socket niche, special attention is paid to the size of the purchased device.
Attention is drawn to the appearance and shape of the purchased device, as well as to 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-established manufacturers.
Installation and Connection
The order of installation and connection of the smart switch depends on the model selected. If it is intended to control indoor 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 adjustment module is fixed at the installation site.
When connecting automatically controlled LED and halogen lamps to the power grid, the requirements of TB are required to use full wiring - phase and neutral conductors. The control modules in this case are located next to the lamp or inside the lighting device. Acoustic switches are installed in niches where usual devices were placed or near to a light source. To facilitate self-installation will help the instructions that come with any smart device.
Advantages and disadvantages
Remote-controlled switches have a number of advantages:
- During installation, there is no need to lay a dedicated power line.
- It is possible to control light sources and other devices from one randomly selected point.
- Any modern device (PC, smartphone or tablet) is used as a control panel.
- Electricity costs are reduced by an average of about 30-40 percent.
- High-tech devices have a large range (up to 100 meters), given the fact that radio emissions easily pass through obstacles encountered.
The intensity of the emitting signal is very small 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.
Popular manufacturers of smart devices
Sonoff company 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 on the well-known Z-Wave technology. These devices are widely used in household systems "smart home", allowing you to fully automate the light control procedure.
The switches of the Chinese company Xiaomi, founded in 2010, are also popular. The company produces high-tech electrical devices, including sockets and smart switches.
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- Xiaomi
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- Sonoff
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- Vitrum
