Video conference like a pro

With the current society requirements for social distancing, video conferencing is becoming the new normal, and will probably continue into the foreseeable future.

Video conferencing is much more enjoyable for you and others if some preparation is provided. As you become more used to video conferencing and it becomes more of a necessity, you can gradually update parts of your system to improve your experience. 

Location, location, location. 

Find a space in the home that is free of visual distractions. Although popular software has virtual background options, they can look artificial and be themselves distracting. Ideally, find a place that doesn’t have a lot of hard surfaces. Sound bounces off hard surfaces creating an echo that can make your voice hard for others to hear. Sit upright at a desk or table to ensure a consistent setup, and good posture. 

Choose your device wisely

Use a computer with a built in camera or a seperate webcam mounted to the display if possible. A laptop computer may benefit from using a laptop riser to improve the height of the camera.

As fantastic as modern phone cameras are, the screen format is often not ideal, especially when participating in group meetings. The viewpoint from a handheld phone will not be ideal for viewers. If you do use a mobile device, setup and composition is very important.

Light is up

Lighting is important for any video. Illuminate your face with a forward facing light, and use another light source behind you to seperate yourself from the background. The front light can be a window during the day, combined with a lamp if required. A well positioned front light is definitely required at night. The front light should be located behind your camera to avoid washing out the video, and effectively illuminating your face.

Mic up 

Built in computer microphones are typically very average. Try using an external USB microphone mounted on a stand, or desk-mounted boom arm. If using a mobile device, use a headset that integrates earphones and a microphone. 

Listen up

Use headphones to monitor your voice, and to hear others. You can easily make necessary adjustments when you can hear your own voice. Closed-back headphones, or noise cancelling headphones limit background noise that can be distracting. 

Applications

Familiarise yourself with the application that your meeting uses. You may need to download an app and register as a user. Each app is a little different to set up, and will allow you to test video and audio settings. Practice using the app and understand how to mute the microphone, and video when required.

Dress up

Be sure to look the part, as you would in person for a meeting, ensuring that you are appropriately groomed and dressed.

Compose yourself

Ensure your computer camera is located at head height, with your front light locates behind the camera. Your video image should show your upper body and head. Think about how you see a television newsreader on screen.

If you must use a mobile device, mount it in a compatible bracket, on a tripod or similar, to be a head height. Avoid resting your device up against something or holding it in your hand – this will produce an unflattering image of a view up your nostrils. 

Lights, camera, action

When the time comes to connect into your meeting, be prepared to check in a little early. A meeting host should allow to to join the meeting a few minutes early. Having already tested your composition, video and audio prior to the meeting, ensure your microphone is muted as you connect in.

My video conference set-up

Enjoy

A good video meeting setup will provide the foundation of a good experience, and give you confidence to interact with others. Once you get into your meeting, be yourself, as you would in a normal meeting. Take note of who does it well, and who may need improvement, for your own improvement. With practice, you will improve your video meeting technique to be a video conference pro.

Philips Dynalite Hardware Installation Guide

I often get asked for information and training material by electrical contractors and integrators for how to install Philips Dynalite systems. Whilst we host training sessions when we can, sometimes quality documentation is all that may be required to fulfill an immediate need.

The Philips Dynalite Hardware Installation Guide is a fantastic resource that covers many aspects of a Dynalite installation, that could be forwarded to installers and subcontractors who may not have experience with Dynalite installations.

Download and view the Philips Dynalite Hardware Installation Guide here.

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

Getting to know: Antumbra Lite

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.

Specification Sheet
Installation Instructions

Applications

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 DDMIDC8DPMI940-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

Getting to know: Philips Dynalite Antumbra Button

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.

Specification Sheet
Installation Instructions

Button configurations

 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

Getting to know: Philips Dynalite motorised blind control

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:

  • DDRC810DT-GL SPDT Relay controller
  • DDMC802 Multipurpose modular controller + DGCM102 Motorised curtain module
  • 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.

Philips have a valuable guide for Blind, curtain and motor control with Dynalite relay controllers, that can be downloaded. 

The downloadable installation instructions provide clear instruction for wiring of the relay controller for motorised blinds.

Specification Sheet
Installation Instructions

DDMC802 + DGCM102

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.

Specification Sheet
Installation Instructions

DDNG485

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.

The downloadable installation instructions doesn’t specifically provide blind control instructions, but Philips have a DyNet to Somfy gateway User Guide as a valuable resource for integrating Somfy RTS blinds, that can be downloaded from my shared Dropbox link.

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. 

Specification Sheet
Installation Instructions

Let me know

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

Getting to know: Philips Dynalite DDBC110 Signal dimmer controller

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

Getting to know: Philips Dynalite DDMC-GRMS Multifunction modular controller

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.
  • Built-in sequential logic functionality – Allows intelligent responses to programmed triggers.

Buy multipurpose modular controller…
DDMC-GRMS Multipurpose modular controller

Add modules…
DDLM102 1x 2A Leading edge dimmer module
DDTM102 1x 2A Trailing edge dimmer module
DDBM101 1x 2A Ballast control module
DDRM104 1x 4A Relay module

Specification sheet
Installation instructions

Applications

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.

1x DDMC-GRMS
5x DDTM102 Trailing edge dimmer modules
1x DDNP1501 Power supply
1x PDEG Ethernet gateway
4x PA6BPA-WA-L Antumbra button application modules
4x DACM Dynet communications modules
2x DUS360CR multifuction recessed sensor

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

Philips Dynalite Engineering Specification

Did you know that Philips Dynalite has a comprehensive engineering specification?

This specification is a valuable resource for specifiers; designers, and consultants to specify a Dynalite lighting control system, to accurately describe a networked lighting control system in project documentation.

Being a specification resource, the document doesn’t provide specific information on each and every product, but rather a functionality specification that separates Dynalite from other lighting control systems.

It covers almost every aspect for a Philips Dynalite specification, including:

  • System functionality
  • Load controllers
  • User interfaces
  • Networking and integration
  • Software
  • Monitoring

Some examples of the specification:

8.2 System Functionality > Occupancy Control (page 10)
Through sensor based occupancy detection, enable management of the artificial lighting level required at any given time for vacant and occupied areas. This feature shall be capable of functioning at the same time as light level detection, especially in areas that experience high levels of daylight i.e. adjacent to windows.

8.3.2 Light Level Control > Dimming (page 11)
The system must be capable of implementing dimming control of lighting from a flexible choice of networked user interfaces. This shall be achieved by a protocol (or signal) to a lamp driver (DALI addressable, DALI Broadcast, DSI, or 1-10V) or by power control of phase control dimmers.

8.3.5 Light Level Control > Colour Component and White Balance Control (page 12)
The system shall have provision to represent and control luminaires that incorporate multiple channels for the adjustment of color (RGB) or tunable white (warm white/cool white). When integrating White Balance control in a DALI network, only one DALI address shall be used for controlling both white balance and dimming level.

9.3.2 Power Dimming Controllers > Trailing Edge Power Dimming Controllers (page 17)
Trailing Edge, (TE) dimmers shall be used on unique lighting circuits that incorporate trailing edge compatible low voltage electronic transformers. Trailing edge dimmers shall use MOSFET transistors as the power-regulating device. All trailing edge dimmers shall incorporate electronic overvoltage protection, and electronic short circuit protection. Trailing edge dimmers shall be capable of sensing an inductive load, and automatically revert to switching only if an inductive load is connected.

9.4.1 Signal Dimming Controllers > Broadcast Signal Dimming Controllers (page 18)
Signal dimming shall be used to control luminaires with integral dimming control gear. Signal dimming controllers shall use commissioning software to select the output as 1-10V, DSI or DALI Broadcast. The controllers shall optionally incorporate an integral mains supply relay for each ballast control output circuit so that power can be removed from the lighting circuit when the ballast control channel is set to 0% output (off state). The relay shall have an appropriately rated capacity for typical lighting loads. Control systems that require an external DSI or DALI converter shall not be acceptable.

Feel free to download the Philips Dynalite Engineering Specification and distribute it to your design and consultant audience.

Let me know if I can be of further assistance helping you specify a lighting control system, that will differentiate it from others.

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

Getting to know: Philips Dynalite sensors

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.

Specification sheet
Installation instructions

DUS360CS

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.

Specification sheet
Installation instructions

DUS90CS

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.

Specification sheet
Installation instructions

More information

For more information about these sensors, and others in the Philips Dynalite range, check out the latest Philips Dynalite networked sensors brochure.

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

Smarter Homes Podcast

I am pleased to announce my Smarter Homes Podcast that can be found on Apple Podcasts.

With the evolving world of technology, our homes need to be connected more than ever. Homeowners and residents are faced with many choices and decisions, and numerous technology products and systems. For many, it can be a minefield of electronic complexity and technological confusion, that somehow needs to be embraced – but how? Well, that’s what this podcast is all about… making homes AMAZING!