Smart Lighting:
The control of Landscape Lighting has changed drastically over the last 10 years. The higher technology-based products are now available for use on residential homes and commercial projects. In this article we will look at several distinctive styles of smart technology that are in the marketplace today.
Bluetooth Technology:
Bluetooth technology has been used for years for many different electronic applications. Most of us are familiar with this with Bluetooth speakers and earphones. This technology was introduced into the Landscape Lighting industry several years ago. The good thing about Bluetooth is you do not have to worry about a Wi-Fi signal reaching your fixtures. The range for some of the original Bluetooth devices was short – only about a 30-foot range. This has since improved with the addition of Bluetooth repeaters that can be used in the landscape to bounce the signal to different devices.
Recently, Bluetooth mesh has been introduced which allows the devices to talk to each other and pick up a stronger signal. Some Bluetooth systems also have a bridge that allows you to connect to Wi-Fi and then control the lights from anywhere in the world with Bluetooth.
Wi-Fi Technology:
There are two types of Wi-Fi technology currently used in the Landscape Lighting world. One is a system that is controlled through the transformer going out to integrated lighting fixtures. These transformers will connect to the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi on a customer’s home or business. This is an exceptionally effective way to control lighting. The reason for this is that there is only one more device being added to a customer’s router versus many lamps. Once it is connected, the transformer will send signals out to the different fixtures to allow them to change colors or kelvin temperatures. This can also allow them to dim and be set for certain times to create fabulous effects. There are several manufacturers that make the style of transformers. Some of these transformers will also integrate into higher levels of smart home technology that may be integrated directly into the house.
Onboard Wi-Fi Technology:
Onboard Wi-Fi technology is when the fixture itself has its own IP address and can be connected to the customers router the 2.4 GHz network. When setting these items up, you will need to get onto the app. Be sure you are on the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. You will need to put these devices in a pairing mode where they are blinking or in some cases they will go to a breathing mode. If the devices stop blinking or breathing that normally means that they are talking with the router. Several manufacturers have introduced integrated fixtures with antennas. These will communicate with the Wi-Fi at longer distances than before. Just as a side note: most smart products will still need a 2.4 GHz network. The reason for this is that 2.4 GHz is much stronger and will go further distances than 5 GHz. 5 GHz will allow greater speeds for downloading and watching movies etc.
Smart Controllers:
Some manufactures are now making transformers with different zone capabilities. This would allow you to, for example, take a 300 W transformer and divide it up into three separate zones so you can control different areas of the property. There are also standalone units that can go on existing transformers. Some units will be a single station, and others can go up to four stations. Usually with both styles of controllers you can run over 100 Watts in a single zone.
These devices will allow you to control the zones individually with different timing requirements in all zones. So, for instance, if you had a customer that you wanted to do the front yard and the backyard, but they wanted them to come on at the same time but go off at separate times, one of these devices might be suitable for the job.
They are also individual smart socket units that can be installed inside the transformer. These units are both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. At first you will need to connect these devices to the Wi-Fi. However if you do lose connection to the Wi-Fi, it will automatically default to Bluetooth. The only problem lies when you are away from the device with your phone it may not keep time properly. When connected to Wi-Fi, the units are connected to the cloud which gives you worldwide access to your devices.
Choosing the right customer for Smart Products:
As we have spoken before about smart products, it is important to evaluate your customers’ level of technology.
If you were working with a client that is still using a flip phone, chances are they are not going to be willing to work with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth smart products. It is never a worthwhile idea to force this on a customer because they may not be willing to go through the learning curve to work with these products. Although, many customers that greet you with their cell phone in hand will most likely welcome the idea. If you are not used to using these Wi-Fi and Bluetooth products, it is important to familiarize yourself with them. Your local distributor or manufactures representative may be able to assist you in your first job. Most of the time, people are afraid to ask for assistance. But it will make you look better overall if you do. You may also consider working with a Wi-Fi professional. It is always good to consult with this trade before trying to take on a job without knowledge.
I encourage you all to give these products a try in the appropriate job. Work with your resources to fully understand how and when these products are appropriate to be used.
Wishing you all the best,
Kevin Smith
National Technical Support
Brilliance LED, LLC
