lights dim via 12v trigger?

[neal666]

what would i need to dim my lights using a projector 12v trigger? can it be done? can it be delayed as well like set them to dim 1min after turning on the projector?

[neilball]

You would need a "proper" lighting control system that provides for volt-free inputs to trigger scenes and also has either automatic sequences or scene-call delays.

On the wiring side you would have to use an interface relay with a 12v coil wired to the projector trigger and the relay contacts wired to the lighting system volt-free input. you lighting would then need to be wired to the channel outputs on the lighting controller and the scene programmed for the behaviour that you want when the 12v trigger operates.

[neal666]

Top man, thanks for that can you point me in to right direction with the controler and onther bits, any links to products? Thanks

[neilball]

How many lighting circuits have you got to control? Can you run the cables to re-wire for this type of control? Once that is known it is easier to make some suggestions.

[neal666]

Originally Posted by neilball

How many lighting circuits have you got to control? Can you run the cables to re-wire for this type of control? Once that is known it is easier to make some suggestions.

Hi, I'm in the process of doing the room so i can do any wiring req, I have 1 ceiling circuit and a pair of wall lights ( I'm not that bothered about control on wall lights would be a bonus really)

My aim idealy would be to have normal functioning ceiling lights on/off but dim about 1min after the screen comes down and projector switch on

Cheers for help

[neilball]

For only 2 circuits I would suggest looking at the Mode Scenestyle 2 as this will give you scene control of 2 lighting circuits with volt-free input trigger & IR control. There is a dedicated website with downloads that show how it wires and gets set up.

[m4rky_m4rk]

You can also do what you want with x10 too.

One of these for sensing the 12v trigger:
SM10 Universal Sender Module - X10 - Marmitek - Transmitters - Home automation - Comm4All

This will send an x10 command via existing mains cables to one of these:
CM15Pro ActiveHomePro Interface - X10 - Marmitek - Controllers - Home automation - Comm4All
CM11 version is a cheaper version.

These interfaces can be used to trigger a macro on sensing the on command.

Macros can then do a lot.. such as dim, brighten. on , off of many lamps and sockets at the same time or with timed delays.

To act upon the x10 macro commands sent via mains you will need either plug in or in wall receivers. These will receive the commands from the macro and switch on, off, dim , brighten etc.
Receivers - Home automation - Comm4All

With one of these you can also use a remote to control x10 lights and sockets.
IRRF7243 RF Infrared Controller - X10 - Marmitek - Controllers - Home automation - Comm4All

The only thing with x10 is that it can be unreliable due to mains borne noise. If its a problem then additional x10 mains filters may be required.

[fredd500]

You can get a volt free contact for the RAKO system - this would allow the projector to select either all off or a preset scene (e.g ceiling lights off, wall lights to 10%).

You could then use a RAKO control panel instead of your existing light switch and a couple of dimmers on your ceiling lights and wall lights.

Looks like a nice solution - not something I have ever had the pleasure of playing with, but definately something I want to play with when I get the chance.

[hornydragon]

Scene style is by far the cheapest and easiest solution i can think of. X10 is messy as is Rako although both can do alot more. Scenestyle will add more to the room than the others for less cost and faff, normal wiring for lights and then 2 core for trigger.