What is DALI?

Dali lighting refers to a lighting control protocol called Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI). DALI is a communication standard used for controlling and dimming lighting fixtures in commercial and residential buildings. It provides a two-way digital communication between lighting fixtures and control devices, allowing for more advanced and flexible lighting control.

With DALI, each lighting fixture or device in a system is assigned a unique address, which enables individual control and monitoring of each fixture. This means that you can independently adjust the brightness level or switch on/off specific lights in a DALI system. It also allows for group control, where multiple fixtures can be grouped together and controlled simultaneously.

DALI systems can be integrated with other building automation systems, such as occupancy sensors, daylight sensors, and central control systems, for enhanced energy efficiency and automation. DALI also supports features like scene control, where predefined lighting settings can be recalled at the touch of a button or based on specific triggers.

Overall, DALI lighting provides greater flexibility, energy efficiency, and control options compared to traditional lighting systems. It is commonly used in commercial buildings, offices, retail spaces, and other applications where precise lighting control is desired.

Why is my newly installed DALI light staying on?

Newly installed DALI fittings require programming to switch and dim over the DALI network. We are able to attend site and program in the new fitting. If the fitting has been commissioned then there could be several possible reasons for this issue.

1. Incorrect wiring: Check the wiring connections of your DALI fitting. Ensure that the wiring is properly connected according to the DALI protocol. Make sure that the DALI control lines are correctly connected to the DALI bus and that the power supply is appropriately connected.
2. Addressing issue: Each DALI fitting is assigned a unique address, allowing individual control. If the addressing is not set correctly or if there is an addressing conflict, it can cause the fitting to stay on. Verify that the DALI address of the fitting is set correctly and doesn’t conflict with other devices on the DALI bus.
3. DALI control signal: Ensure that the DALI control signal is being sent properly from the DALI controller or control device. Check the communication between the controller and the fitting. It’s possible that there may be an issue with the DALI controller or control device itself.
4. Faulty fitting or driver: If none of the above causes seem to be the issue, it’s possible that there could be a problem with the DALI fitting or its driver. It could be a manufacturing defect or a malfunctioning component. In this case, you may need to contact the manufacturer or supplier for assistance or consider replacing the fitting.

What is the difference between DALI addressable and DALI Broadcast?

The main difference between DALI broadcast and DALI addressable modes lies in how control commands are sent and received by DALI devices.

1. DALI Broadcast: In DALI broadcast mode, control commands are sent to all DALI devices simultaneously. When a command is broadcasted, every DALI device on the bus receives and responds to the command. This mode is useful for triggering global actions such as turning on/off or dimming all the DALI devices in a system simultaneously. However, it does not allow for individual control or addressing of specific devices.
2. DALI Addressable: In DALI addressable mode, each DALI device is assigned a unique address. Control commands can be sent to individual devices by specifying their respective addresses. This mode enables precise control over each DALI device in the system. You can adjust the brightness level, switch on/off, or recall predefined scenes for specific devices. DALI addressable mode allows for granular control and flexibility in lighting management.

In summary, DALI broadcast mode sends control commands to all devices simultaneously, affecting the entire DALI system uniformly. DALI addressable mode, on the other hand, assigns individual addresses to each device, allowing for individual control and customization of lighting fixtures. The choice between broadcast and addressable modes depends on the specific requirements and desired level of control in your lighting system.

With DALI Broadcast you will need to connect to separate the switching groups with the DALI twin where as with DALI addressable, multiple switching groups can be one the same twin with the controlled separately by the DALI command.

The bonus with DALI broadcast is when replacing a DALI device the new driver will not require to be re-addressed.

What wiring do I need for DALI?

A single DALI line is a twin cable and must be a mains rated cable. 

DALI cables can be wired next to normal mains carrying wires reducing the need to segregate the control wires.

0.5 mm² (20 AWG)	Up to 100 m
0.75 mm² (18 AWG)	Up to 150 m
1.5 mm² (15 AWG)	Up to 300 m

What’s the best automation system?

Determining the “best” lighting control system depends on various factors, including the specific requirements and preferences of the project or application. There are several reputable lighting control systems available, each with its own strengths and features. Aussie Automation can determine the best suited system based on your budget and requirements.

How many fittings can be on a DALI network?

An absolute maximum of 64 DALI type devices can be connect on each DALI line (also called a universe) We recommend using up to 50 per line to allow future expansion. Note, some drivers and fittings will consume more than one channel.

Why do my lights flicker at certain times during the night?

Ripple Signal (Zellwegar Noise) on Dimmers

This may be a feature of the electrical network in your area that controls hot water systems.

Symptom

• Strobing or flickering lights at only certain time of the night.
• This ripple noise is picked up by the zellweger meter, which after a random delay turns the hot water heater on.
• This noise is often picked up by our Dimmers (but is also visible with normal incandecent lighting).

Fix

• To fix the issue you will need a Ripple Control Tone filter djusted to the correct frequency
• Common types of Frequency types 350HZ, 750HZ, 1050HZ

Save as PDF File