Landscape Lighting Design Training
Table of Contents
Section 1 | LED Styles + Specs
- Omni Directional Lamps
- Projection Lamps
- Kelvin Scale
- Photometrics
- Beam Angles
Section 2 | Transformers + Controls
- Brilliance Dimmer
- Wi-Fi Smart Socket 3.0
- Sector Selector
- Transformers
- Installing Cable into a Transformer
- Electrical Overstress (EOS)
Section 3 | Design
- Principles of Light
- Human Emotions & Light
- Fighting Glare
- Indoor Lighting vs Outdoor Lighting
- Shadows
- Lighting Techniques
- Lighting Scenarios
- Mixing Kelvin Temperatures
- Designing with Color!
- Designing a Lighting System: Step by Step
Section 4 | Engineering/Math
- Voltage
- Volt-Amps
- Sizing the Transformer Using Volt-Amps
- Wattage Calculation
- Wiring Methods
- Voltage Drop
- Voltage Drop Calculations
- Completed Case Study
Section 1 | LED Styles + Specs
Omni Directional Lamps
Omni-directional LED lamps provide uniform light output in all directions. Common types include:
- Beacon G4
- Beacon DCB
- S14 Edge Filament
- Micro T5
- Micro G4
Projection Lamps
Projection lamps focus light in a specific direction, offering targeted illumination. Examples include:
- PAR36
- AR11
- G4 Wafer
- MR16
Kelvin Scale
Kelvin temperature determines the warmth or coolness of light. Common values:
- 2200K – Very warm
- 2700K – Warm white
- 3000K – Bright white
- 5700K – Cool white
Photometrics and Beam Angles
Photometrics help determine the beam angles and light distribution. Beam angles impact light spread, measured in degrees (15°, 30°, 60°, etc.).
Section 2 | Transformers + Controls
Brilliance Dimmer
Specifications:
- Wattage: 120W
- Operating Range: 12VAC
- Capacity: 10 Amps
- Minimum Load: None
- IP Rating: 63
- Warranty: 3 Years
Wi-Fi Smart Socket 3.0
Features:
- Controls landscape lighting via the Brilliance Smart App
- Works with Alexa & Google Assistant
- Requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection
Sector Selector
- Allows creation of up to four zones per transformer
- Supports up to 800W capacity
- Requires a stable Wi-Fi signal for remote control
Transformers
- Available in 75W, 150W, 300W, and 600W
- UL 1838 Certified
- Secondary circuit breaker for safety
- Compatible with dimmable controls
Installing Cable into a Transformer
Proper cable installation prevents overheating and electrical issues. Steps:
- Strip the cable properly without damaging strands.
- Twist the conductors securely.
- Insert and tighten in the terminal block.
Electrical Overstress (EOS)
Hot-plugging LED lamps can cause failures. To prevent EOS:
- Unplug the transformer before replacing lamps.
- Ensure all socket connections are secure.
- Replace worn-out fixtures.
Section 3 | Design
Principles of Light
Light is the absence of darkness and can be absorbed or reflected. It always travels in a straight line.
Human Emotions & Light
Lighting influences emotions, affecting feelings such as:
- Fear
- Excitement
- Romance
- Joy
- Relaxation
Fighting Glare
Glare occurs when light sources are too bright or direct. Shielding and diffusers help reduce glare and improve comfort.
Indoor vs Outdoor Lighting
- Indoor lighting requires higher illumination levels for tasks like cooking or reading.
- Outdoor lighting serves both functional (pathway lighting) and aesthetic (architectural lighting) purposes.
Shadows
Shadows add depth and dimension to a scene. Proper placement of lights helps create visual interest while avoiding unwanted dark spots.
Lighting Techniques
- Up Lighting – Illuminating from below
- Down Lighting – Mimicking natural sunlight
- Back Lighting – Creating silhouettes
- Cross Lighting – Using multiple sources for even illumination
- Grazing – Highlighting textures
- Mirror Lighting – Reflecting lights off surfaces
Lighting Scenarios
Different environments require tailored lighting:
- Dense Foliage: Requires pruning or additional light sources.
- Darker Architecture: May need brighter bulbs.
- Private Spaces: More personal and relaxing lighting setups.
Mixing Kelvin Temperatures
Combining warm and cool lighting enhances contrast and highlights specific landscape elements.
Designing a Lighting System: Step by Step
- Identify the purpose of lighting.
- Understand the client’s needs and preferences.
- Determine power sources and fixture placements.
- Test the setup with a night demonstration.
Section 4 | Engineering & Math
Voltage & Volt-Amps
- Voltage (V): Electrical pressure in a circuit.
- Volt-Amps (VA): Determines transformer size.
- Formula: Watts x 1.67 = Actual Draw (VA)
Sizing the Transformer
Example Calculation:
- (7) 4W MR16 Lamps = 47W
- (9) 3W G4 Lamps = 46W
- Total System Usage: ~93W
- Recommended Transformer: 150W – 300W
Wiring Methods
- Daisy Chain: Best for short runs.
- Central Point (Hub): Equal voltage distribution.
- Center Feed (Split-T): Similar to irrigation layout.
Voltage Drop & Calculations
Voltage drop occurs over long runs. Formula: (Total Watts x Cable Length x 2) / Cable Constant
Completed Case Study
A case study of the Thompson residence demonstrates proper lighting design, transformer selection, and installation techniques.
Contact Information
Brilliance LED
Website: brillianceled.com
Phone: 800.867.2108
Address: 7202 E Cave Creek Rd, Suite 3A, PO Box 2281, Carefree, AZ 85377
Published: June 2024