Rako Install Q

[Spy]

I wonder if anyone can help.

I would like to install 4 circuits of downlights with 4 RAKO dimmer modules to control each circuit.

Typically, the dimmer module is installed at the end of the circuit (where you would expect the light switch).

Is it possible to continue the wiring after the dimmer module, to a traditional 4 channel light switch ?

Would I then be able to use the light switch as a master on/off for each circuit ?

For example, when a circuit is switched off from the traditional switch, the Rako dimmer will not work and vice-versa.

Or is this not recommended and may damage the dimmer module ?

Thanks for your help.

[DaveChester]

Originally Posted by Spy

I wonder if anyone can help.

I would like to install 4 circuits of downlights with 4 RAKO dimmer modules to control each circuit.

Typically, the dimmer module is installed at the end of the circuit (where you would expect the light switch).

Is it possible to continue the wiring after the dimmer module, to a traditional 4 channel light switch ?

Would I then be able to use the light switch as a master on/off for each circuit ?

For example, when a circuit is switched off from the traditional switch, the Rako dimmer will not work and vice-versa.

Or is this not recommended and may damage the dimmer module ?

Thanks for your help.

I cant see any reason why this wouldn't work. I dont believe you will damage the dimmers at all and you can set them up to be on when powered up.

I cant really see the point though - why not just use one of their wall mounted RF switches to do the same? How are you planning on controlling the dimmers if not by one of their switches?

Dave

[Spy]

Thanks Dave.

I will be using one of the RAKO wireless controllers and realise this provides the same function.

I guess my real reason is to have teh wiring going back to a traditional light switch in case I need to change the system in the future. If I terminate the wires at the dimmer pack in the ceiling, then it will be a big job later should I wish to utilise a wired wall switch.

I am thinking of hiding the traditional switch somewhere unobtrusive.

[DaveChester]

Originally Posted by Spy

Thanks Dave.

I will be using one of the RAKO wireless controllers and realise this provides the same function.

I guess my real reason is to have teh wiring going back to a traditional light switch in case I need to change the system in the future. If I terminate the wires at the dimmer pack in the ceiling, then it will be a big job later should I wish to utilise a wired wall switch.

I am thinking of hiding the traditional switch somewhere unobtrusive.

Why not wire in the traditional way but instead of putting a switch on the wall scotch block the wires together and put your Rako switch over the top?? Easy to back track then.

[Spy]

Thanks Dave, that's a good idea, I will definitely consider it.

[sparkey-chris]

spy.

i have a rako system if you switch off the supply to the dimmers ie turn off the light switch, when you switch it back on all those dimmers fed from that switch will turn on in full mode not dimmed as such would this cause you a problem ?.there is really no need for a switch.just crimp thru your feeds and switch lines at switches and install a rako switch plate over the old switch box or buy a 7 button remote. ( you dont need both unless you got kids and they chuck the remote down the toilet)well handy.

[vex]

Just a quick note:

The Rako software allows you to change how the dimmers re-act when the power is turned on. IIRC this can be set to 'not come on' - 'return to the last setting' or 'come on full'

[Spy]

Thanks for the responses guys

I have decided to not wire in a switch and just terminatre the wires for the future.

[jmwhooper]

You may want to look at a new Rako product announced a couple of weeks ago, it's called the PILL and is designed to be installed in the wall light switch box and the only wiring needed is the switched live to pass through it, more like a standard dimmer switch. You can then either fit a rako control plate/remote or an on/off raise lower wired switch into the PILL. I've attached the Rako product sheet for this.

I'll be using some of these PILLs in places where installing a ceiling dimmer module is difficult or costly

[MRadja]

Do you know how much these cost?
X10 have a similar product, without the need for a neutral. Can the RAKO wall mounted controllers recall more scenes than the buttons? And if I have a number of these controllers, can each of these recall different scenes?

[vex]

Typically, Rako costs about £100 per circuit and per controller.

Rakos keypads offer upto 4 different scenes, an off and a 'scene dim up/down' and finally yes with additional controllers set to different rooms you can recall a completely different set of scenes and ciruits.

Chris