Those with an eagle eye, may have seen the new AntumbraLite lighting control panel on the Dynalite.org site.
The newly announced AntumbraLite sets new standards for functionality and aesthetic appeal within the market.
Responding to market requests, particularly from the hospitality industry, for a more cost effective user interface, AntumbraLite is engineered to deliver focused features while retaining the Antumbra look and feel.
AntumbraLite reuses AntumbraButton’s mechanical parts without the networking components has resulted in a cost-effective addition to the control market. It is intended for use with Dynalite load controllers that have dry contact inputs.
Available in the full range of Antumbra button and rim finishes, AntrumbraLite also supports customized button labelling with text or icons to suit any application.
I will provide more information as it becomes available.
Each AntumbraLite can send six dry contact signals out. Each of these must be wired to a compatible load controller that supports dry contact inputs, such as the DDRC-GRMS-E (18 dry contact inputs), DDMC802 (8 dry contact inputs), and DDRC810DT-GL (8 dry contact inputs).
If required, additional user interfaces can be connected using a dry contact input device such as the DDMIDC8, DPMI940-DALI, and DLLI8I8O. Each of these devices can respond directly to dry contact inputs, or forward them as network messages for the system to then execute the requested function.
The AntumbraLite panel can also be used with a DPMI940-DALI and used as a DALI user interface.
We are currently exploring other applications for the AntumbraLite that could be beneficial, and will provide updates as we find them.
This series of articles from my Dynalite page focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
The Philips Dynalite AntumbraButton user interface consists of easy to press mechanical buttons that can be customized with text or icons and incorporates the latest in field effect technology. The contemporary design features a number of button configurations, with each button capable of local or site-wide control functions.
Field effect technology – The user interface detects an approaching user and ‘wakes up’, initiating a wall-wash lighting effect to encourage interaction.
Supplied as two components – The Application Module contains buttons, rim, base and mounting plate, which can be mixed and matched to suit décor. The Communication Module contains all of the logical and network functions and is pre-programmed off-site, allowing commissioning to commence prior to finish options being finalized.
Hidden sensory inputs – An internal light sensor measures ambient light and adjusts lightwash effect accordingly. A built-in temperature sensor automatically adjusts air conditioning when integrated into the system.
Multiple language and icon labeling – Button labeling language choices include English, Chinese and Arabic. A library of common icons transcends language barriers, which is particularly useful in hospitality applications.
Selection of rim and fascia options – Allows décor matching to suit any environment.
For The Australian market, the Antumbra Button series is available with three different button configurations; 2/4/6 buttons. The base button application module is the same on all models, with the buttons easily attached and removed if required.
PA2BPA
PA4BPA
PA6BPA
Product codes
When ordering, there is a suffix added to the standard product code that specifies finish options:
Button finish
Rim finish
Labelling
Button colour/finish
Antumbra is now available with a range of finishes, to suit any decor. The traditional plastic (polycarbonate) button finishes are now complimented by a range of stunning metallic finishes.
Polycarbonate finishes (Plastic) W = White S = Silver M = Magnesium
Metallic finishes A = Aluminium G = Gold J = Jet N = Noir P = Prestige V = Vintage
Rim finish
The Antumbra range can be ordered with a mix of rim finishes to compliment the button finish. Rims are plastic, with the aluminium and chrome being a metallic look, rather than being metal.
W = White A = Aluminium C = Chrome M = Magnesium
Custom labelling
Custom labelling has always been a feature of Dynalite user interfaces. I recommend and encourage all user interfaces to be labelled to improve the user experience for the client.
X = No labels (blank) L = Custom labels
Use the online Philips Antumbra configurator to produce labelling documentation, to sign off on, and accompany your purchase order.
Pricing
When reviewing the Philips Dynalite price list, pricing Antumbra panels can be a little confusing.
All button configurations are the same price (i.e. 2/4/6 buttons).
All rim colours are the same price (when included with the panel).
Button finish pricing varies, between polycarbonate and metallic.
All Antumbra panels require a DACM communications modules, that is ordered as a separate product.
All panels should be labelled where possible – it provides the best user experience (but you can order unlabelled if you want).
The most popular and typical pricing configurations of a labelled polycarbonate and metallic panels are:
PAxBPA with labelled polycarbonate buttons (W/S/M) + DACM
PAxBPA with labelled metallic buttons (A/G/N/J/V/P) + DACM
Can’t commit to labelling?
It is quite common for some clients to order unlabelled Antumbra panels, and an additional labelled button set.
When ordering a button set, be sure to prepare configuration documentation using a PAxBSA product code, rather that a standard PAxBPA code.
Pricing this scenario could look something like this example:
PAxBPA with unlabelled polycarbonate buttons (W/S/M) + DACM
PAxBSA labelled polycarbonate button set
More functionality?
If 2,4, or 6 buttons is not enough, and you require more functionality, look at the Antumbra Display range, that I will feature in an upcoming ‘Getting to know’.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
Motorised blinds are often one of the most appreciated third-party products, by clients, to be controlled in a home, as the traditional alternate of having to manually open and close them is cumbersome.
There are a few typical ways of controlling motorised blinds with a Philips Dynalite system, using specific controllers:
DDNG485 – Configured as a Somfy integration device
DDRC810DT-GL
The Philips Dynalite DDRC810DT-GL is ideal for controlling bi-directional motors, such as curtain and blind motors. The voltage free changeover SPDT output relays are perfect for controlling bi-directional motors.
Whist being an eight channel relay, a single motor will require two channels, and will typically control four single motorised blinds.
The Philips Dynalite DDMC802 provides up to eight configurable output channels, controlled by up to four interchangeable control modules. A selection of control modules is available for a variety of load types. Specifically, the DGCM102 curtain control module provides control of curtains, blinds and other motorised window treatments.
Although the DDMC802 is an eight channel controller, it needs to be populated with specific modules to be functional. It has four slots to be filled, with various modules requiring one or two slots. When used a blind controller, the DGCM102 requires a single slot, so can therefore control up to four blinds.
The downloadable installation instructions provide clear instruction on Page 3 for wiring of the multipurpose controller for motorised blinds.
The Philips Dynalite DDNG485 is a flexible network communications bridge designed for RS-485 networks. The DDNG485 can route DyNet to third-party systems such as audio-visual, Somfy blind controllers, and building automation systems, providing an integrated approach to total building control and energy management.
If using the DDNG485 for blind integration, I recommend partnering with a reputable blind supplier who can assist with configuring their Somfy RTS controller, that will greatly help with your system.
I’m interested to know how you do motorised blinds, and what blind products and systems you have experience integrating with.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
The Philips Dynalite DMBC110 is a luminaire mount multi-protocol control solution that provides intelligent networked control of individual lighting fixtures. The compact design enables mounting directly within the gear enclosure of many lighting fixtures.
Incorporates one relay output and one signal dimmer output – Provides dimming control of DALI, 1-10V and DSI compatible drivers and transformers.
Gear enclosure mounting – Compact design allows the device to be mounted directly within the gear enclosure of many light fittings.
Fully rated device – Robust relays provide reliable control of difficult lighting loads.
Inbuilt diagnostic functionality – Features Device Online/Offline status indication.
Applications
The DMBC110 is a flexible device that is suitable for a number of applications.
Linear LED strip lights With its compact form factor, the DMBC110 is a flexible device, that can control local linear LED strip lights that cannot be home run to a distribution board. The DMBC110 can be installed with the LED driver, and only requires a DyNet connection to be included on the Dynet daisy chain.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
Following a previous, getting to know the DDMC802, I introduce the DDMC-GRMS multipurpose modular room controller.
The Philips Dynalite DDMC-GRMS is a general room automation and energy management system. Allowing for a range of output modules, the compact unit delivers the ultimate in room comfort through seamless control of lighting, curtains and blinds, as well as limiting standby current consumption from electronic devices connected to power outlets.
One 16 A power relay – Enables a total energy management solution, reducing standby power consumption by switching power outlets.
Three switching channels – Provide additional on/off control of other lighting fixture types.
Five channel modular controller – Leading and trailing edge dimming modules, signal dimming modules and relay control modules available.
Two built-in motor directional relays – Provides control of motorized blinds for a full automation solution.
Pre-programmed – No programming required as the unit is supplied with complex functions such as ‘master on/off’, ‘room unoccupied’, ‘do not disturb’ or ‘make up room’ already configured. The device can be reconfigured to meet any project requirements. Alternatively, it can be programmed with System Builder, as you would a typical multipurpose modular controller.
Single box solution – Provides an economical total energy management solution.
There are many applications for the DDMC-GRMS. I have found that the most effective way of specifying the product is the understand its capabilities, and quantify the loads around it.
I was recently involved with the specification of a special needs community housing project that featured multiple single dwelling units. Each unit had simple living and kitchen spaces, single bedroom and bathroom; an ideal application for the DDMC-GRMS.
The DDMC-GRMS used five channels of trailing edge dimming, and three switched relay channels. An ethernet gateway, power supply, and a selection of Antumbra lighting control panels, and recessed multifunction sensors completed the specification.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
By definition, a ‘smart’ building is able to vary its state or action in response to varying situations. Philips Dynalite have a range of multifunction sensors that are an integral component for making a building ‘smart’.
Philips Dynalite sensors are fully networked devices that support multiple functions at the same time. This versatility and capability results in coordinated operation across the entire system, allowing every device on the network to respond to environmental changes and user requirements in real time.
All Dynalite sensors include motion and light level sensing to automatically detect occupancy and control lighting levels. These intelligent devices detect the slightest movement and are quick and easy to install, generating savings with minimum effort. Additionally, these sensors can communicate to the building’s HVAC system when rooms are unoccupied, cutting down on unnecessary heating and cooling from third-party systems.
Powerful tasking capabilities allow Dynalite sensors to modify their behavior between business hours and after-hours. Thanks to their network connectivity, they can coordinate multiple lighting groups in other areas when needed, such as lighting a path from an occupied workspace to the nearest exit at night.
This powerful combination of responsiveness and customisable functionality means that users experience safe, comfortable lighting wherever they are, often without ever needing to touch a control panel or interact directly with the system.
Sensor Range
Popular sensor in the Philips Dynalite range include:
DUS360CR
The Philips Dynalite DUS360CR is a recess mountable 360 degree multifunction sensor that combines motion detection (PIR), infrared remote control reception (IR) and ambient light level detection (PE) into one device in applications such as offices, lecture theaters and homes.
Motion detection feature – Detects the presence or absence of motion and adjusts lights accordingly.
Segmented click-up bezel – Surrounds the motion sensor element and enables a portion of the sensing field to be masked. This prevents nuisance detection from adjacent doorways or corridors.
Ambient light level regulation – In applications where it is critical to maintain precise light levels, the PE function reads ambient levels and adjusts artificial light accordingly.
Infrared receive capability – Manually adjust light levels using a hand-held remote control, via the inbuilt IR receive sensor of the DUS360CR.
Daylight harvesting mode – Delivers automatic energy savings.
The Philips Dynalite DUS360CS is a surface mountable 360 degree multifunction sensor that combines motion detection (PIR), infrared remote control reception (IR) and ambient light level detection (PE) into one device in applications such as hotels, restaurants and homes.
Motion detection feature – Detects the presence or absence of motion and adjusts lights accordingly.
Segmented click-up bezel – Surrounds the motion sensor element and enables a portion of the sensing field to be masked. This prevents nuisance detection from adjacent doorways or corridors.
Ambient light level regulation – In applications where it is critical to maintain precise light levels, the PE function reads ambient levels and adjusts artificial light accordingly.
Infrared receive capability – Manually adjust light levels using a hand-held remote control, via the inbuilt IR receive sensor of the DUS360CS.
Daylight harvesting mode – Delivers automatic energy savings.
The DUS90CS is wall or ceiling mountable multifunction sensor that combines motion detection (PIR), infrared remote control reception (IR) and ambient light level detection (PE) into one device for applications such as offices, lecture theaters and homes. Manufactured with an IP54 rating, the DUS90CS is resistant to dust and splashing, making it suitable for use in both indoor and sheltered outdoor areas.
Motion detection feature — Detects the presence or absence of motion and adjusts lights accordingly.
Ambient light level regulation — In applications where it is necessary to maintain even lighting, the PE function reads ambient levels and adjusts artificial light accordingly.
Infrared receive capability — Manually adjust light levels using a hand-held remote control, via the inbuilt IR receive sensor.
Daylight harvesting mode — Delivers automatic energy savings.
Multiple mounting options — The sensor has a 90 degree scan pattern with flexible angle adjustment and can be recessed or surface mounted on a wall or ceiling.
IP54 rating — Dust- and splash-resistant housing allows installation in a variety of indoor and outdoor applications.
This wonderful brochure goes into quite a bit of basic detail about how various sensors technologies work:
PIR motion sensing
Ultrasonic motion sensing
Light level sensing
Sensor scan patterns
Configuration
Light level regulation
Connectivity
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
The Philips Dynalite DDMC802 provides up to eight configurable output channels, controlled by up to four interchangeable control modules. A selection of control modules is available for a variety of load types.
Single controller solution – Control a variety of load types from one device.
Four module bays – Accommodates any combination of up to four single modules or two double-size modules.
Flexible mounting solution – A DIN-rail mountable device, designed to be installed into the distribution board supplying power to the controlled circuit.
Leading edge phase control dimmer module (DGLM105/202/402): Suitable for use with incandescent lamps and some types of dimmable electronic transformers.
Trailing edge phase control dimmer module (DGTM104/202/402): Suitable for use with most types of dimmable electronic transformers.
Signal dimmer control module (DGBM200) Suitable for 1-10 V, DSI and DALI Broadcast control of digital drivers and transformers.
Relay control module (DGRM204): Suitable for controlling most types of switched loads.
Fan control module (DGFM102): 400 VA three-speed fan control.
Curtain control module (DGCM102): Provides control of curtains, blinds and other motorized window treatments.
When this product is supplied, it needs to be configured with the appropriate modules, that need to be carefully installed.
With the top cover removed, the DDMC802 has four slots for installing modules into. Some modules plug into a single slot, and other require two slots. The installation instructions document illustrates the installation process well.
I have found that the most popular application for this product is as an 8x channel trailing edge, phase dimmer. For this application, the following products need to be ordered:
8 Channel TE phase dimmer 1x DDMC802 2x DGTM402
Another popular application, is to control variable sweep fans. For this application (to control a maximum of 4x sweep fans), the following products need to be ordered:
4 Channel variable sweep fan controller 1x DDMC802 4x DGFM102
The multipurpose modular controller is fantastic for home cinemas, demonstration suites, and small units, as they can be configured to control different loads; all from a single controller.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
The DACM (Dynalite Antumbra Communication Module) is a DyNet communication module that connects to any Antumbra user interface to a Philips Dynalite system. It is most often purchased with an Antumbra application module (e.g. PAxBPA, PATPA, PADPA).
Powered by DyNet – Does not require an external power supply.
Universally compatible – Works with any AntumbraButton, AntumbraTouch or AntumbraDisplay application module.
Onboard processor – Contains all logical and network functions and can be commissioned prior to installation.
Functions without application module – Can be installed, wired and tested without application module, avoiding fascia damage during ongoing construction.
Pre-configuration – Can store and recall up to 21 configurations using the DIP switch, streamlining the commissioning and installation process.
Update
You may start to notice that the DACM has been updated to a DACM V3, that now has a green label:
Original DACM: Black label
DACM V2: Blue label
DACM V3: Green label
Please upgrade your firmware version based on the device’s microprocessor: firmware version 2.xx for generation one microprocessors or firmware version 3.xx for generation two microprocessors.
For most applications, there will be no performance difference between the DACM V2 and DACM V3.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
The Philips Dynalite product catalog features two ethernet products; the Ethernet Gateway (PDEG), and Ethernet Bridge (PDEB). Many may be familiar with the PDEG ethernet gateway, using it a time clock for scheduling, and wireless programming. Many may be unaware of the more recent addition to the product portfolio, the PDEB ethernet bridge. Let’s take a closer look at these two products, and how they can be used.
PDEG Philips Dynalite Ethernet Gateway
The Philips Dynalite PDEG provides a multipurpose Ethernet connection to a Philips lighting control system. It supports access to the lighting system via a dedicated Philips app as well as providing a web interface delivering access to the inbuilt timeclock and schedule editor functions. It provides bridging functionality between Ethernet backbone and the DyNet fieldbus devices.
Large storage capacity – The device stores large project files internally, which apps use to automatically configure their settings. This saves configuration time and ensures accuracy for phone and tablet control.
Built-in web server – Allows the user to edit and check system settings via the Network Hardware Checker and System Roll Call tools.
No technical skills needed – Inbuilt timeclock and schedule manager allow the user to manage operation and task scheduling without advanced technical knowledge.
Powerful custom task engine – Allows users or third-party systems to run macros, such as ‘After Hours’, ‘Shut Down’, ‘Welcome’ and more.
Advanced interoperability – Supports management of Philips Dynalite and Philips PoE fittings on a single system.
Practically, for most integrators, the PDEG can be used for the following:
The Philips Dynalite PDEB provides a cost-effective Ethernet connection to a Philips lighting control system. It provides bridging functionality between an Ethernet backbone and the DyNet fieldbus devices. The PDEB enables the implementation of a trunk and spur topology on large project sites, with the bridge providing a high-speed backbone coupled to many lower speed spurs.
Cost-effective – The device provides an economical way to connect the RS-485 DyNet network to an Ethernet network.
Internal controls – Programmable logic controller capable of comprehensive conditional and sequential logic and arithmetic function processing, packet filtering and DyNet to DyNet 2 translation.
Flexible mounting solution – DIN-rail mountable, designed to be installed into a distribution board or other electrical enclosure.
Practically, for most integrators, the PDEB can be used for the following:
Whilst most projects will incorporate a PDEG ethernet gateway for time clock and scheduling functionality, the PDEB ethernet bridge can be used as a more cost effective solution for integrating third-party control systems, or as a bridge for large systems.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
The Philips Dynalite product portfolio features a range of DALI products, from which I am featuring the DDMC120-DALI signal dimmer controller.
With a move towards more controllable luminaires, and human centric lighting, Philips Dynalite has a range of products for a complete lighting control solution. The DDMC120-DALI is the product to be used to control an enumerated (fully addressed) DALI for residential applications, when required.
The Philips Dynalite DDBC120-DALI delivers cost-effective control of DALI drivers through provision of a full universe of 64 DALI drivers. The device communicates seamlessly with Philips Dynalite DALI sensors and user interfaces.
The updated DDBC120-DALI controller now supports tunable white light (or human centric lighting) for DALI 209 compliant colour control luminaires, and is compatible with DALI 209 drivers. This provides a single Warm White, Cool-White (WWCW) channel for tuning the colour temperature and adjusting the light intensity.
Previously, DALI luminaires required two channels that controlled a Warm White driver and a Cool-White driver, to achieve the same effect. Both the old and new channel types are supported by the DDBC120-DALI.
The DDBC120 DALI has an auto-enumeration feature, that provides automatic enumeration of DALI ballasts when powered on and enables self-repair of the network system if a DALI driver fails, rather than only the traditional manual enumeration method.
This series of articles focuses on products from the Philips Dynalite networked lighting control portfolio. Many industry professionals regard Philips Dynalite as being the world’s best lighting control system, that I have represented with Lightmoves for many years. SimonLakey
