Dimmers for magnetic low-voltage transformers use a technology known as standard phase control or “leading edge,” whereas dimmers for electronic low-voltage transformers use reverse phase control or “trailing edge.” Standard phase control is for use with either inductive (MLV transformers, fans) or resistive (incandescent) loads.
What is a low voltage electronic dimmer?
Electronic Low Voltage (ELV) Dimmers were originally designed to control Electronic Low Voltage Transformers used in low voltage (12V) MR16 type fixtures. ELV dimmers and transformers are more expensive but offer quieter operation, better control and tend to last longer than Magnetic Low Voltage Transformers (MLV). Also referred to as Reverse ...
How many amps in a low voltage light bulb?
How Many Amps Does a 60 Watt LED Bulb Draw. A 60 watt LED light bulb will draw approximately0.54amps when turned on, which means you’ll need a transformer that has at least 120 volts and 15 amp capacity for it to work properly without tripping the breaker.
Will low voltage damage LED lights?
The GP-CVP060P series provides 12V, 24V, 36V and 48V DC output options. It is the perfect solution for low voltage applications, especially for LED illuminated signage, light boxes, LED neon flex, LED strips, DC input lights and 48V track lights.
Is Lutron Caseta a TRIAC dimmer?
Forward Phase- Also known as leading edge, incandescent, MLV, or triac-based dimming. The vast majority of dimmers installed today are this type. This is a line-voltage dimming method. Reverse Phase- Also known as trailing edge, ELV, or FET-based dimming. Luminaries with electronic supplies are best controlled with these types of dimmers.
What is magnetic low voltage dimmer?
Magnetic Low-Voltage Dimmers Magnetic Low-Voltage (MLV) dimmers control MLV transformers and are suitable for recessed lights. MLV lights tend to be larger and heavier than ELV lights.
What is the difference between magnetic and electronic transformers?
The higher the frequency of the voltage, the smaller the transformer needs to be to provide the required output voltage. The electronic transformers are lighter and smaller than their magnetic counterparts. They are also more budget friendly but are noisy and only last 5-6 years. They are also heat-sensitive.
What is electronic low voltage dimmer?
Electronic Low Voltage (ELV) Dimmers were originally designed to control Electronic Low Voltage Transformers used in low voltage (12V) MR16 type fixtures. ELV dimmers and transformers are more expensive but offer quieter operation, better control and tend to last longer than Magnetic Low Voltage Transformers (MLV).
What are three types of dimmers?
Most dimmers fall into these four bulb type categories:Incandescent and halogen bulbs.Dimmable compact fluorescent light bulbs.Magnetic Low Frequency (MLV)Electronic Low Frequency (ELV)
What type of dimmer is a Lutron?
Lutron's electronic low-voltage dimmers are designed specifically for the special electrical requirements of electronic transformers. The electrical characteristics of an electronic transformer are capacitive (as opposed to an inductive magnetic transformer) and require special dimming considerations.
What is an electronic low voltage transformer?
Electronic Low Voltage Transformers (ELV) Electronic transformers have a more complex internal system that uses circuitry paired with an inverter to accomplish the same task as magnetic transformers. The inverter will increase the frequency of the voltage from ~50/60Hz to 20,000Hz or greater.
What are the two basic types of dimmers?
The two basic types of dimmers are based on how they are controlled: Mechanical and Electronic.
Are ELV dimmers better?
REASONS TO USE AN ELV DIMMER Because of these exigencies, many prefer MLV dimming solutions to ELV, but there are some great benefits to the latter. Firstly, an ELV transformer will usually be lighter, smaller, and more efficient. The biggest advantage, however, is the lower cost.
Why do I need an ELV dimmer?
Incandescent low voltage systems, like rail systems, have transformers that may require an ELV dimmer to protect the driver. Many states have put bans on standard incandescent bulbs.
How do I know what type of dimmer switch I have?
If you already have light bulbs and are looking for a dimmer switch, find the product page for the bulbs and check the PDF for a list of compatible dimmers to choose from. The specific dimmer compatibility information will always be with the bulbs rather than with the dimmer.
Are all dimmers the same?
Dimmers all perform the same function, altering the illumination produced by the attached fixtures, but there are many types of dimmer switch controls. These traditional switches have a rotating knob that controls the light level.
What kind of dimmer is needed for LED lights?
LED bulbs have a low wattage, so you'll need to have a dimmer that is 250W or 400W and ideally intelligent trailing edge, for smooth dimming. See our full range of LED suitable trailing edge dimmer switches.
What is a triac dimmer?
What does Triac mean? The key electronic component in a dimmer that makes wave-chopping possible is called a “triac”. So all these type of dimmers are “triac dimmers”. What’s Leading Edge and Trailing Edge? When chopping a sine wave, you can chop the beginning of the wave, or the end of the wave.
How did 12 volt transformers work?
The 12 volt conversion was easily achieved with a simple transformer to reduce the voltage and increase the current. These transformers were very effective. But also heavy and bulky, and because they were just a couple of coils, worked like an electromagnet. So they became known as “magnetic transformers”.
What was the most popular light bulb in the 1970s?
It became very popular starting from the 1970s onward. The most common type of halogen bulb was an MR16, about 2″ in diameter. The big advantage was they could be spotlights, small and bright.
Can LED lights work with trailing edge?
Some lights can work equally well with leading edge and trailing edge, some prefer one or the other. Same goes for LED power supplies for LED flexible strip lights. It depends on the device, there is no hard-and-fast rule.
How Do TRIAC Dimmers Work?
Triac dimming is a physical dimming that starts from alternating current phase 0 and reducing the input voltage until the TRIAC dimmer goes on. The primary working technique is to control the conducting angle between each half-wave of the alternating current and transform it into a sinusoidal waveform.
How to Install a TRIAC Dimmer Switch
Here is a rough list of the tools and equipment that you’ll need for installing a TRIAC dimmer:
What is the Difference Between TRIAC and ELV Dimming?
The distinction between these two devices is in their definitions. ELV is an acronym for Electronic Low Voltage. It has other names that originate from how this device transitions your light-emitting diode’s luminosity. The Electronic Low Voltage works by turning off an electric load at the end of the AC (Alternating Current) waveform.
Are Lutron Dimmers TRIAC?
A Lutron dimmer has a TRIAC dimmer in its Diva product line. However, the Caseta line of dimmers is not TRIAC.
What are Different Types of Dimmers?
Choosing the correct dimmer for your bulb is essential and sometimes can be daunting if you are not well equipped with such knowledge. Dimmers regulate the level of brightness of a bulb. The device extends the life of your bulb and helps you save energy. Below are different types of dimming.
Common Questions About TRIAC Dimmers
Below are a few of the most commonly asked questions about TRIAC dimmers and all the answers to them!
Final Words
As stated in the above guide, a TRIAC dimmer is an essential component for your home lighting. They will solve all your dimming needs and let you have the required amount of light around you. Therefore, having gone through this piece, you have all that it takes as far as lighting jargon is concerned.