A new range of timeswitches, timers and light-sensitive switches from Merlin Gerin, a brand of Schneider Electric, make it easy and convenient to provide effective energy-saving control for lighting installations in residential and commercial properties.
All of the new products feature intuitive operation, generously rated output contacts that eliminate the need for extra relays, and compact construction. Designed for straightforward DIN-rail mounting in standard distribution enclosures, they incorporate screw-less terminals and offer full compatibility with comb busbars, providing big savings in wiring time.
The use of the latest switching technology in these units ensures that they are suitable for use with all types of lighting load, from standard incandescent lamps to compact fluorescent and neon lamps with ballasts.
IHP timeswitches in the new range operate on a weekly cycle and, to ensure maximum versatility, they are available in versions that can be programmed to provide up to 84 switching operations. Only four keys are used for programming, and the results are instantly displayed on the device’s large easy-to-read screen.
With many of the models in the range, an accessory memory key can be used to copy programs from one timeswitch to another, which saves valuable time, especially in large installations. Also available is a PC-based programming kit that facilitates the development of even the most complex switching sequences.
Additional facilities provided by Merlin Gerin IHP timeswitches include automatic adjustment for daylight saving time, programming for holiday periods, easy overriding of settings, direct display of current operating status and, for some models, a remote control option. The units are available in 25 different language variants, making them ideal for use in applications anywhere in the world.
Complementing IHP timeswitches are the new MIN series timers, which are optimised for applications such as automatically turning lights off after a preset period. All MIN timers offer an adjustable delay from 0.5 to 20 minutes, with the MINp and MINt versions having an additional fixed one-hour delay function.
All models are designed for operation from external pushbuttons, and the timers can provide a current of up to 150mA to power LEDs in illuminated pushbuttons.
MINp and MINt timers incorporate a useful switch-off warning feature that makes the lights flicker for a few seconds before they go out. The MINt timer also incorporates an impulse function that allows the user to switch off the lights before the end of the delay period by briefly pressing the pushbutton that controls the timer.
Valuable energy savings can be achieved by supplementing timed control of lighting installations with control based on ambient lighting levels. To facilitate this, Merlin Gerin offers the new IC2000 light-sensitive switch. Just 45mmm wide, this unit is supplied complete with a separate rotatable photosensor, and can be set to switch at any light level between 2 and 2,000 lux.
For ease of setting up, it includes a test button on the front panel, along with two LEDs to confirm current operating status. An integral timer is also provided to avoid unwanted switching operations when light levels fluctuate rapidly.