How to install a touch switch. Livolo connection diagrams. What is good about the device?

The development of technology has affected all areas of human life, including home improvement. One example is a touch-sensitive light switch. This device significantly increases the comfort of being in the room and allows you to control the lighting by touch. And this is not the only advantage.

Design features and operating principle

The touch switch operates even when you lightly touch the button. Consists of three main elements:

1. Control block. The system processes external signal and transfers it to the necessary details.
2. Switching device. Gives a load electrical network, closing and opening the circuit and changing the current to the lamp.
3. Touch (control) panel. Designed to sense touches or signals from the remote control. IN modern devices You don’t have to touch the sensor, just move your hand nearby.

Standard models of switches are equipped with the following capabilities:

1. Turn on/off the light, adjust the brightness.
2. Monitor the operation of heating equipment and report temperature changes.
3. Open/close blinds.
4. Turn on/off household appliances connected to the switch.

Among the additional functions, the motion sensor is very useful.

Classification system

There are touch switches different types, which are selected depending on the needs of a residential building or office.

With remote control

Used in such cases:

• the switch is located in an inconvenient place and cannot be moved from there;
• a person with limited mobility lives in the apartment/house;
• switches are located at a height where children cannot reach;
• there is a need to change the brightness of the light without getting out of bed.

To work with a structure of this type, it is not necessary to use a special remote control. A universal one is suitable, connecting simultaneously to two, three or more devices.

With timer

The device has many advantages:

1. Quiet operation.
2. Easy to install.
3. Safety. If the circuit is broken or shorted, the switch automatically moves to the off position.
4. Attractive appearance. The device body can be painted in any color.
5. Two colors to indicate operation. Red indicates the backlight is on, blue indicates it is off.
6. Durability and reliability. Special glass is used to make products. The edges are carefully sanded. This makes the switch safe and easy to clean.
7. Versatility. Works with any type of lamp, be it LED, halogen or incandescent.

Touch switches with timers are distinguished by a wide range of functions and are economical.

Optical-acoustic switches

They react to sound or movement - clap, a spoken word or some kind of gesture. The main thing is that all this happens within the range of the sensor.

What are dimmers

Touch switches with a dimmer allow you to change the level of lighting in the room. Conventional devices operate in two modes - on/off. The dimmer allows you to adjust the brightness of the light to your taste.

Devices with such a device have important advantages:

1. Thanks to the ability to change brightness, they help reduce the amount of electricity consumed. The indicator decreases by 50%.
2. Allows you to adjust the lighting to suit the situation. For example, in the evening after a busy working day You can reduce the brightness to twilight.
3. If there are several switches in the room, using a dimmer you can focus attention on one part of the interior.

Designs with dimmers do not work with energy-saving and fluorescent lamps.

Devices for mounting LED lighting

Switches that can be connected to LED strips, are also called dimmers. They turn on, turn off and adjust the brightness of the light source.

Most often, such devices are part of an entrance lighting scheme or a “ smart House", and also focus attention on any detail of the room.

Advantages

Touch switches, compared to classic devices, have many advantages:

• can work with any light sources and electrical appliances;
• allow you to save energy;
• are distinguished by reliability and long service life;
• perform many functions;
• devices are easy to install;
• operate almost silently;
• safe for humans;
• the sensor is triggered even when it is touched with wet hands.

Several switching systems can be installed in one device.

How not to make a mistake with your choice

When choosing a touch switch, you first need to look at the maximum and minimum current and voltage. Usually the values ​​are indicated on the packaging or the device itself. If they differ greatly from the network characteristics, you will have to install a stabilizer.

It is also worth remembering other parameters:

• number of devices connected to one switch;
• need for a dimmer;
• Do you need a timer that automatically turns on/off lights or appliances;
• Operating principle: by touch or remote control.

When the set of functions and properties is defined, you can move on to external characteristics. For example, decide in advance whether the switch will have a glass or plastic control panel.

Manufacturers of touch switches

The manufacturer of the switch is an important factor determining its choice. Experts recommend giving preference to those that have a good reputation in this field:

1. Basalte. Produces premium products. They differ unusual design And high quality. On the front panel, which is often made of glass, there are indicators that act as a backlight. The company also produces switches that can be integrated into a smart home system. The price of products depends on the complexity of their execution.
2. Legrand. A French company producing a wide range of electrical products. The switches it produces are equipped big amount functions. They belong to the expensive price segment.
3. Livolo. Russian company, which appeared on the electrical engineering market quite recently. Distinctive feature The touch switches it produces is their affordable price.

Subtleties of connection

Installing a touch switch is no different from installing a conventional device. It takes place in several stages:

• turn off the electricity;
• remove the old switch;
• remove the top panel from the new product;
• connect the wires to the terminals intended for them;
• place the operating mechanism of the switch in the installation box;
• secure the device using spacers and special screws;
• fix the panel.

The connection of the two-key model is carried out according to the same scheme. To avoid confusion, it is recommended to use cables that have multi-colored cores.

Pass-through switches are connected in the same way. They allow you to control a light source or equipment from different places. This is convenient if there is a long corridor in the apartment/house.

There is an option for unusual installation - not on the wall, but in the mirror. In this case, the switch must consist of a control unit and an infrared sensor. It is triggered not by touch, but by movement.

How to make a touch sensor with your own hands

You can construct a sensor for a touch switch yourself. To do this you need to prepare:

• relay with voltage 6–12 V;
• part of the foil PCB, which will play the role of a sensor;
• pulse diode with a voltage of 100 V.

Touching the sensor provokes the opening of elements designated in the diagram as VT1 and VT2. After this, the circuit will close (using a relay), and the lamp/electrical appliance will turn on.

You can also make a device yourself with infrared sensor. It only works when there is movement within the sensor's visibility range. If it is absent, the lighting will turn off after a certain period of time.

The connection occurs according to the following diagram:

This scheme has important features:

• the output is one;
• transistor is open;
• the contacts from the relay must be connected to the key;
• The infrared sensor operates thanks to a pulse generator;
• to increase the strength of the pulse current that goes to the infrared LED, it is necessary to install amplifiers.

The connection is made so that after 20 minutes after a person leaves the room, the light turns off.

Sensor based device - good alternative ordinary switches. It is distinguished by its attractive appearance, efficiency, and reliability. Allows you to turn on/off not only light sources, but also household appliances. Products of this type can be purchased at a specialized store or, if you have the necessary skills and abilities, you can make them yourself.

Hello, dear readers and guests of the Electrician's Notes website.

In one of my articles, I told you about it, controlled both manually and from a control panel.

But today I would like to draw your attention to the VL-C701R Classic series touch switch from Livolo with similar functions. True, this switch has its own characteristics and advantages over the same Sapphire-2503, which I will tell you about in this article.

The very first thing that catches your eye is its pleasant appearance with a transparent glass panel. This, in principle, became a fundamental aspect when choosing this switch.

The point is that on kitchen apron A place has been prepared for installing a switch that will be used to control one of the kitchen lighting groups. Sockets for kitchen appliances will also be located there.

The apron in the kitchen is planned to be made of glass, so when choosing a switch, I wanted to find something with an original and interesting design.

And then, on the Internet, I came across a review of a touch switch from Livolo. So I decided to buy it, because why not?! At the same time, I’ll share the information with you, in case you also decide to install one of these products for yourself?!

To begin with, I purchased one VL-C701R Classic series touch switch in order to test its declared functions and characteristics, because the switch is made in China, and here, as you all know, you can expect all sorts of surprises.

So, let's go.

I ordered the VL-C701R Classic series switch from the Livolo online store (rulivolo.ru). Its cost at the time of publication of the article was about 1130 rubles. The prices on Aliexpress are similar, so I decided to order here. You can check it yourself! Among the advantages, I would note the following: Russian-language description of goods and support when ordering, as well as relatively fast delivery, which in my case took a little more than a week. From China (Aliexpress) you would have to wait much longer.

Explanation:

• VL is the Livolo brand designation
• C7 - series (more modernized)
• 01 — number of controlled lines (one)
• R - radio-controlled (with remote control)

Specifications:

• operating voltage from 110 to 250 (V) frequency 50-60 (Hz)
• maximum power no more than 1000 (W)
• maximum load current no more than 5 (A)
• number of switchings - 100 thousand.
• IP20 housing protection degree (read about)
• operating temperature from -30°С to +70°С

Overall dimensions: 80x80x40 (mm).

I received the switch in a cardboard box that held two packages at once.

One package contained a VL-C701R touch light switch with a VL-RMT-02 control panel and an instruction manual (in English), and the other contained a glass panel.

With what this switch so interesting?!

Like I said, it's his appearance. There are no comrades in taste and color, but personally I like it. Compared to the same Sapphire-2503, it looks much more interesting and prettier.

By color scheme The background of the glass switch panel can be ordered at your discretion, although the choice is not particularly huge - only 2 colors: black and white.

Using the VL-C701R touch light switch, you can control almost all types of lamps - incandescent lamps, halogen lamps, both 220 (V) and through, compact fluorescent lamps CFL, fluorescent lamps daylight, and LED strips.

True, there is one nuance that applies to LED and fluorescent lamps, as well as LED strips. If their power is from 3 to 18 (W), then the listed lamps may still blink in the off position of the switch. This, for example, the manufacturer recommends in this case installing a resistor with a nominal value of 33 (kOhm) and a power of 10 (W) in parallel with the lamp.

The VL-C701R touch switch can be used not only to control lighting - you can just as easily connect another load to the output contacts, for example, a blind or gate drive, a fan, a heater, solenoid valves for irrigation water and others different devices. Naturally, if the connected load exceeds the power of the output contacts of the switch, then a contactor will need to be added to the circuit. Read some of my articles about contactors:

Externally, the switch assembly looks quite neat and of high quality. WITH reverse side The body of the VL-C701R touch switch is made of heat-resistant plastic with brass terminals for connecting wires and cables.

Connecting the touch switch VL-C701R

The touch switch VL-C701R is connected by standard scheme, like or .

There is no need to lay any additional wires and cables (some touch switches require a separate 220 V power supply) - the VL-C701R touch light switch is installed instead of the usual one single-key switch or dimmer. Here is the connection diagram for the VL-C701R touch switch from Livolo.

To terminal L (In) we connect the incoming phase with distribution box(in the diagram the wire is red), and to terminal L1 (Load) - the switching phase (in the diagram the wire orange color), which will already go to a lamp or group of lamps.

Initially, I planned to install a touch switch on the kitchen apron, but as practice has shown, this is not possible - I will talk about the reasons below. Therefore, as an example, I will show the installation of a switch to control lighting in the bathroom.

The bathroom had to be installed: one key to control the lighting, and the other. But there is no fan yet, so I will connect only the lighting group to the switch. In the future, perhaps I’ll connect the fan control to the same group, because it still comes with a timer.

The white conductor is the L phase, the blue one is the N zero, and the yellow-green one is the PE protective conductor.

Now all we have to do is connect the incoming phase from the apartment switchboard to the L (In) terminal, and connect the switching phase of the outgoing cable to the group of lamps to the L1 (Load) terminal. Zeros and protective conductors I connected the PEs to each other, respectively, in the same place in the socket box using .

I carefully laid the wires in the socket box and moved on to installing the switch. The used Hegel KU1201 socket boxes are 45 (mm) deep, so installing a 33 (mm) deep switch there and laying all the wires is somewhat problematic. Whenever possible, use deeper socket boxes.

The switch is mounted in a standard-sized socket box exclusively with mounting screws (included in the kit); it does not have any spreading tabs. So take this into account if you still have old Soviet metal socket boxes installed. Although it is not so long and laborious to replace them with modern ones. Here are some articles on these topics:

After installing the base of the switch, we attach the glass panel to it - it is held solely by latches. Ready.

And this is how the switch protrudes from the wall - not very much and even less than regular switches.

But what if you plan to install several of these switches in a row?!

Let's count! The standard distance between the centers of socket boxes is 71 (mm). Overall size The glass panel of the touch switch is 80 (mm). Thus, from the center to the edge of the glass panel there will be 40 (mm), which will protrude 6 (mm) beyond the edge of our socket box, which has a diameter of 68 (mm). Near installed switch cannot be installed anymore, because their edges will overlap each other. This means that installing such switches in one row in in this case it won't work.

The way out of the situation is to increase the distance between the socket boxes in advance, i.e. instead of the standard 71 (mm), make it 80 (mm). Here's the nuance.

Touch light switch operation

We touch the circled circle with a finger (or foot) and the switch turns on; when we touch it again, it turns off. An electromagnetic relay is built inside the switch, which is slightly audible when switching.

Also not intrusive and pleasing to the eye, the switch is illuminated, which is clearly visible in dark time days or in dimly lit places. When the switch is on, it lights up in red, and when off, it lights up blue, although during the day it is difficult to determine whether the switch is on or not.

I would like to note the following feature of the switch. If suddenly for some reason your power line is turned off, the switch automatically switches to the “off” position.

Setting up the remote control

The switch is remotely controlled using a separate control panel (VL-RMT-02), or rather even a remote control, which comes as standard.

The remote control is small and compact 40x25x15 (mm) with the ability to program several of these switches. It has a metal faceplate, and its buttons are protected by an opening plastic safety shutter.

The remote control operates at a frequency of 433.92 (MHz) from a 27A/12 (V) battery, which, unfortunately, is not included in the package, so I had to buy it separately. Keep this in mind.

To configure the remote control, you need to press and hold the sensor button on the switch until it emits a sound signal - this is approximately 5 seconds.

Then you need to press any of the three (A, B or C) buttons on the remote control (I’ll take button B as an example) until a second single beep appears.

Ready. With such a simple and simple action we paired the touch switch and button B of the control panel.

Button D cannot be programmed. because its function is initially programmed to turn off all three switches (sensors) programmed to the buttons of this remote control.

If you want to disconnect the control panel from the switch, then follow similar steps. Only when you press a button on the control panel, not a single signal, but a double signal will appear.

If you want to reset all switch settings, press and hold the switch on the sensor for about 10 seconds. All control panels associated with this switch will be disabled.

Now let's check - is everything working properly?!

Press button B - the switch turns on. Press button B again - the switch turns off.

Let's check other buttons on the control panel that we did not program. The remote control does not respond to other buttons, which is what needed to be proven!!!

As I said, with the help of one control panel you can control 3 switches (or 3 sensors). Also, one switch (sensor) can be linked simultaneously to 8 different control panels.

I would like to note that the settings of the switch and the control panel are saved even if the power is turned off and there is no battery in the remote control. And this is very important!

According to the stated characteristics, the operating range of the control panel is 20 (m). I don’t have the opportunity to check at such a distance at home. But from anywhere in the apartment the switch works without problems, even from behind a wall, from around a corner, etc. Let me clarify that all the walls in the apartment are made of plasterboard. How will the switch behave when concrete walls- I can’t say.

Minor modernization

Some of you may object that it is not very convenient to aim at the small sensor button. But this can all be solved! One of the radio amateurs has already come up with a so-called upgrade for this switch, i.e. expanded its sensitive zone and now there is no need to aim at a small “target” - the switch will be triggered when you touch any point on the glass panel.

It's not difficult to do. I will not upgrade my copy, but will attach a photo of a similar touch switch, only without radio control.

Need to get to printed circuit board switch and solder one tip of the conductor to the indicated location.

The second tip of the conductor remains free (in the air), it just needs to be secured around the perimeter to the base of the board with glue, tape, etc. convenient ways as shown in the photo below.

Now the switch will be activated when you press anywhere on the glass surface.

2. Linking the switch to a PC, tablet and phone

On one of the forums I came across a very detailed post that this switch can be linked to a controller Arduino Uno, which means that you can now control the switch not only manually or from a remote control, but also directly from a computer, tablet, phone, and even using voice commands. So keep this in mind - with the help of this opportunity you can build a more rich and “smart” lighting control system (and not only) for your home or apartment.

Conclusion

I’ll say a few words about the identified shortcomings.

I noticed that the glass panel has some play in the landing latches, but within reason. Also, fingerprints always remain on the glass panel. So far I have nothing else to note about the shortcomings.

As an alternative to switches with touch and remote control can be applied ready-made devices(controllers) similar to those installed in, although they will have much less functionality.

And by tradition, watch the video based on this article:

P.S. The Livolo range does not end there. The site presents big choice switches, pass-through switches, sockets, dimmers, timers and other devices with various functionality, as well as interesting designs. But only time of operation will tell how reliable Livolo products are. If you already use switches and other Livolo products, then write your opinion and review about them in the comments. Thank you.

Technological progress does not stand still and over time affects all spheres of human life. Home improvement was no exception. For example, a touch-sensitive light switch, which appeared quite recently, has already managed to occupy a worthy niche in everyday use.

The device not only increases the level of comfort, but also increases the service life lighting fixtures, and also refers to stylish design elements.

Let's understand together the principles of operation and design features these devices. What points should you pay attention to when choosing and how to properly install a touch switch.

Appearance The classic model of an electronic switching device is almost identical to the touch panel and consists of a screen made of glossy electrochromic material (crystalline glass) with markings applied to it. A wide variety of design, color and device configuration options are available.

Regardless external characteristics and the number of connected consumers, the sensor device consists of the following main parts:

1. Controller or control unit. Behind the decorative front screen there is an active surface of the sensing element that responds to various stimuli. Based on the type of touch switch, the stimuli are: touching the object of influence, in some models approaching, clapping your hands, voice command.
2. Semiconductor converter. In the previous block, a signal is generated, which in this section is converted into an electrical signal of sufficient power to operate.
3. Switching part. By means of the switch, the main actions in the electrical circuit are carried out: opening, closing or smoothly regulating the degree of load supplied to the lamp.

Based on the design of the electronic product, its operating principle is obvious: by lightly touching the panel with your fingers, a signal is produced, which is converted and causes the relay to turn on.

Additional functions built into a universal touch-type switch are often used to equip a smart home system: control of the operation of heating devices, opening/closing window roller shutters and others

Distinctive features of a touch device

The electronic device belongs to the high-tech generation of devices, the main purpose of which is to control illumination. The principle of its operation is based on adjusting the current using a microcircuit, while conventional switches use standard type sliding contacts.

This fee excludes education short circuit. This means that the service life of the lamps, as well as the life of the switch itself, is significantly increased.

Household modifications of electronic switching devices are used in networks with a voltage of 220 V. They are used to connect sconces, control and adjust the backlight or main illumination

Maximum convenience of controlling lighting devices is the main advantage of a touch (electronic) switch.

It differs from the usual one by the presence of a special sensor, which served as the basis for the name of this type. A sensor located in the structure detects the radiated heat of the hands and responds to touch or to a sound signal.

Sensory mechanisms can be found in Everyday life almost everywhere. This modern sensor allows you to control various actions

Since the sensory sensing element itself is not capable of reproducing signals sufficient to begin adjusting the lighting directly, the device uses amplification devices. Such conductors are transistors or other alternative elements.

To distribute amplifiers, a cascade placement method is used:

1. The first place in the circuit, immediately after the sensor, is occupied by a transistor with high sensitivity and low power.
2. Next in the oscillatory circuit is a similar mechanism, but with lower susceptibility, but with sufficient power to transfer a large load to the element.

Quite often, electronic switches use galvanic isolation of the control circuit, where control signal sent through optical radiation - optocouplers. Thus, the fragile part of the mechanism, namely the sensors, is separated from the power part.

It is also possible to use the radio range, where commands are sent through the air protocols of the involved wireless network, for example, BlueTooth or Wi-Fi.

The sensor has a current strength of only a few milliamps, which is insufficient even to transmit a signal to the base of the transistor. Therefore, amplifiers are used to send commands in the touch switch

The active elements that make up the electronic switch can be powered using batteries or the mains. However, for the second option, you will need to perform certain manipulations to straighten mains voltage followed by cutting it to the required level.

The simplest example is semiconductor diode Zener. In rare cases, you can find a built-in full-fledged switching power supply.

Types of electronic switching products

Despite the fact that touch switches are divided into six main types, only three are used in everyday life, namely: capacitive, optical and high-frequency. Let's look at them in more detail.

Capacitive devices - extravagance or necessity?

The capacitive type works as a light sensor and is capable of registering the presence of an object at a set distance. The device is mounted instead of standard light switches, but does not require pressing a button/key mechanism to operate.

The essence of the work is based on the following algorithm of actions: when the hand approaches the sensitive area of ​​the touch screen, generally 40-50 mm, the device executes the given command - it adjusts the lighting equipment, turning it on or off. Some options require a light touch to the active switch panel.

The Chinese company Suntruth Electrical is one of the few market representatives specializing in the production of touch switches installed in place of conventional

For some, such functionality will be perceived as overkill, but many consumers, especially their female counterparts, appreciate the essence of such a mechanism.

For example, if in the process of cooking in the kitchen you need to turn on additional lighting, then a slight movement of your hand, no matter if it is wet or dirty, can easily control the electronic switch.

The main representatives of capacitive electrical accessories for controlling lighting equipment are produced by the following companies: Jung, Berker, Livolo and Steinel. Despite their popularity, many developers abandoned this type of product and refocused production on separately installed types of devices.

Comfort and savings of optical switches

The switch, equipped with an infrared sensor, senses exclusively thermal radiation V infrared range emanating from the body during movement. Its alternative name is motion or presence sensor.

Optical models with a pyrodetector are designed to operate infrared radiation wavelength no more than 9 microns. Devices from the Delta reflex series from Siemens are universal. They can be installed both on the ceiling and on the wall and even outdoors

The operation of this device is based on the operation of a sensitive pyroelectric element. Optical system redirects heat rays into a semiconductor receiver surrounded by a plastic storage lens.

The last element is divided into segments. Due to this, the area in front of the IR sensor is divided into sequentially located sensitive and insensitive zones, and, accordingly, visible and blind sectors.

The operating principle of the device is as follows: as soon as a moving thermal object enters the area controlled by the lens, a voltage pulse is generated in the pyrodetector. By means of an amplifier, this signal increases, and the switch turns on the lamps.

Most convenient for home use infrared switches with a sensitive, highly directional element placed on a hinge, with one, two or three free phases. Due to this it is possible to configure required level height and viewing angle of lenses

Relatively recently, Siemens presented new series optical touch switches Delta Reflex. This universal devices, mounted in any area of ​​the room, including external ones, with a degree of protection from external unfavorable factors IP 55.

High-tech models are equipped with a control panel through which programming is reproduced various functions, for example, setting a timer to delay the shutdown time or simulating presence during a specified period.

Convenience and practicality in high frequency devices

High-frequency touch switches are represented by active type (light) and volume sensors. Structurally, these devices are quite similar to the previous version, but the response principle is significantly different.

The operation of the detector is based on the use of photodiodes. The moment light quanta hit the photosensitive area, the device turns off the lighting equipment. At the same time, its body has a special regulating mechanism, with the help of which the required level of illumination is set.

Such intelligent mechanisms are mostly used for lighting facades. When dusk sets in, they turn on the lights in the area, and when it gets light, they turn them off.

Despite the high degree of protection, light detectors may not work correctly when snow accumulates - having decided that it is dusk, the device turns off the lighting, so the snow must be constantly cleared

TO popular models include sensors German companies Steinel and Osram. Both products installed in place of an old light bulb and individual devices are presented.

Installation is carried out in a break in the electrical circuit that supplies power to lighting devices. The device has high degree protection, no less than IP 44.

The operating principle of the volume sensor is based on the emission of weak high-frequency pulses reflected from various items furniture and decor, floors and walls.

Having created a complete picture of the room in the field of reflected microwaves, the light control device inspects it at certain intervals. If a new object appears in the zone, a command is generated and the light turns on; if nothing changes, then the device remains in off mode.

The main manufacturer of such devices is the same company Steinel. They are produced as switches installed instead of standard ones or, more expensive models, in the form table lamps.

Marking and connection details

We will analyze the markings using the example of an electronic switch model VL C701R from Livolo. The modification of the device is indicated by the Latin letters C6, C7, etc. Next is located two-digit number, indicating the number of connected lamp groups: 01, 02 and 03.

Explanation of the VL C701R model markings: VL – abbreviated name of the manufacturer; C7 – series; 01 – one controlled line; R – radio remote control

The last letters will indicate additional functionality of the touch switch:

• R – radio control;
• D – dimmer mechanism, allowing for smooth regulation of the degree of illumination;
• S – pass-through switch function;
• T – shutdown timer.

The connection diagram for the touch switch is the same as for the dimmer.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

If you decide to turn your home into an intelligent one, you should use tips for choosing electronic models. About this in the story:

Having decided on the model and necessary functions It’s important to figure out how to reproduce the connection:

Despite the high price category, touch switching devices are equipped with such powerful functionality, which is quite sufficient for arranging a smart home system. Choosing and purchasing suitable model, corresponding to the requests, you can connect on your own.

You have personal experience using touch switches for lights? Please share it with our website visitors. Tell us about the advantages and disadvantages of such devices that you noticed. Write comments in the block below the article.

The reliability of any system is higher, the fewer moving elements there are in it. Therefore, when considering a light switch mechanical type and sensory, it can be noted that the latter has serious advantages in this sense. But, in addition to reliability, sensor devices amaze, of course, with their futurism. Space design and expanded functionality, which can better meet the trend modern technologies?

Touch switch - what is it?

The sensor device is able to sense any impact on it. Speaking of a switch, such an impact would be a person touching the sensitive area. But, unlike a mechanical switch, other than a light touch from the operator, no additional effort is required for the device to operate. Moreover, touching the same area again will lead to a change in the state of the device - to the opposite.

A touch light switch, just like a conventional electromechanical one, is designed to turn the lighting on and off. But this does not happen with a direct mechanical break in the contact, but through electronic circuit, which first analyzes the signal coming from the sensor (sensor) and gives a command to the relay. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that a switch with a sensor device is completely devoid of mechanics. But the reliability of such a relay is much higher than a simple mechanical contact.

The appearance of the device can be completely different. But in all cases, this is a panel on which there is a certain background and the touch zones are clearly marked. For ease of orientation in dark room the sensors are illuminated with a special indication. Switches come in one, two or three positions with the ability to switch up to three zones.

What does the device consist of?

Circuit design, all touch switches are similar to each other. Their work is based on the same processes. Therefore, one device node (meaning the switching node) is assembled on the following three main elements:

Connecting the touch switch to the network

Despite the fact that the sensor is complex electronic device, installing it in the circuit does not require any special knowledge from the installer. All this is explained by the presence in the switch of standard contact connectors, which are also found in mechanical switches.

Also size seat The sensor and its mounting elements are consistent with standard installation boxes.

Let's take a closer look at how to connect a touch switch:

The more switching zones a switch can provide, the more pairs of contacts it will have on the back side.

Connecting the sensor to a table lamp

General lighting there is not always enough room for normal operation. This happens because the chandelier, as a rule, is located in a certain place on the ceiling and its light may not fall very well on workplace. The way out of the situation is to purchase a table lamp.

The inconvenience of most table lamps is that the mechanical switch is usually located not on the body of the product itself, but on the power cord. Looking for such a switch, especially near a night light, is, to put it mildly, inconvenient. With the advent of the lamp touch switch, it became possible to correct the situation.

The sensor is better suited for these purposes than a regular switch, because the latter must be embedded into the front panel - this is not always possible to do successfully, from an aesthetic point of view. The touch switch can simply be hidden under the body of the product, bringing it as close as possible to the surface. To install the sensor in table lamp, need to:

Connecting the sensor to the control panel

The touch switch is easy to use, but sometimes there are times when you need to bind a control panel to it. Most sensors support this feature. This may be necessary if it is impossible for a sick person to approach the switch and in other situations. Using the example of a touch device from Livolo, it is convenient to understand how this connection process occurs:

Device selection criteria

Just like conventional switches, the devices are designed to operate with a certain current and voltage, so when choosing them, you must first pay attention to these parameters. Information can be found on the device body or on its packaging. If the electricity in a real network deviates from the parameters required by the switch, then a stabilizer must be included in the circuit.

Other selection criteria are:

• Number of connection zones to one device.
• The need for a dimmer.
• The need to have a timer, remote control remote control, temperature sensor or other additional function in the device.
• Device type - LED touch switch, for other lamps or electrical appliances.

Actually last stage you can decide on the design of the product, its compliance with the style of the room where it will be installed.

Advantages

If we compare two types of switches - classic and touch, the latter has a wide range of advantages:

• Ability to work in tandem with most lighting systems and various equipment.
• Longer service life with high operational reliability.
• Safe for human life and health when used even with wet hands.
• Expanded functionality.
• Easy to connect and install.
• Quiet operation.
• Aesthetically attractive appearance.

Using touch switches for lighting fixtures, you can effectively save electrical energy. To do this, buy not ordinary devices, but those that have a dimmer function. This allows you to reduce the voltage supply to the lamp, thereby changing the brightness of its combustion.

Finally

When installing any systems (desktop touch switches or wall-mounted), you should not forget that working with electricity requires extreme care and compliance with safety precautions. Therefore, if you do not have the necessary skills, it is better to invite a qualified electrician for installation.