There are several different ways to dim a light fitting. This article will explain the differences and tell you how to order NVC light fittings with the type of dimming that is right for your project.
Before getting into that detail, if you would like to know more about dimming and drivers in general we suggest you read this article “What is Dimming?”
If you have already purchased dimmable fittings from NVC and you want to know how to wire them,
we suggest you read this article “How to wire an NVC fitting equipped with a dimming driver”
To order a dimmable light fitting from NVC you will need to use the correct order code suffix. The order code suffix is part of the part number, so it needs to be right if we are going to provide what you need. It will be printed on all the order documentation and on the product and carton labels.
Dimming, and the correct way to wire a dimmable light fitting, are two of the most common topics that people ask us about. This article should answer many of your questions, but if you are still unsure about the best dimming method for your project, please don’t hesitate to give our technical team a call. We employ some of the best (and most approachable) people in our industry, so they will be pleased to hear from you on +44 (0)121 457 6340.
We offer 6 types of dimmable light fitting.
Here are the order code suffixes:
1. MD – mains dimmable
Use this suffix when ordering to receive a fitting with a driver that is mains dimmable. A mains dimmable driver is a driver that is compatible with a mains dimmer (supplied by others). It is the specifier or installer’s responsibility to ensure that the dimmer being used is compatible with the driver in the NVC fitting as not all dimmers are equally suitable. We will offer advice and guidance if asked.
A mains dimmer is easy to connect. It needs just the switched-live output from the dimmer, and the neutral, to be wired to the luminaire (plus earth if the fitting is class I).
Mains dimming (above) is mostly used in domestic & residential projects. Mains dimming cannot be used in a 3-phase installation.
Methods of dimming, mostly used in commercial applications, are detailed below. These are suitable for use across 3-phases.
Fittings ordered with the suffixes DA, DD, 1-10 and DA/DAM3 are all supplied with a dimming driver that performs two functions. It is a driver (it converts 230V AC to 12V or 24V DC) and it is a dimmer (it raises and lowers the amount of electrical energy flowing to the LEDs, causing them to get brighter or dimmer).
The fitting you receive will require connection to live, neutral and one or more control wires, through which a signal is provided to the driver, instructing it to make the LEDs brighter or dimmer. In all cases the terminal block on the luminaire will be clearly marked to show where the control wires are to be connected.
2. DA – dimming via a DALI control signal
Use this suffix if you want to dim the light fitting with a DALI control signal. Of course, you will need a DALI based control system, or a device that emits a DALI control signal, in the installation. Ask us for guidance if you need it.
3. DD – dimming with a DALI or switch-dim control signal
An NVC fitting with a DD suffix can be installed for either DALI operation or switch-dim operation. Which is chosen (DALI or switch-dim) is up to the installer. DALI will require a control system or device to be present; switch-dim requires just a retractive switch.
4.1-10 – dimming with a 1-10V analogue control signal
A suitable control system or device must be present to provide the 1-10V control signal.
5. DAM3 – DALI addressable emergency test
This is applicable to emergency fittings only that are to be part of a DALI addressable emergency test system. DAM3 provides for addressable test functionality only, without any dimming.
6. DA/DAM3 – dimming with a DALI control signal and with DALI addressable emergency test
Please note that not all dimming types are available on all fittings. Full details are on the NVC website and in the catalogue.