Less Wiring Saves Time and Reduces Risk on Install and Commissioning

Electrical contractors are being asked to build lighting systems that do more — adapt to new light sources, integrate with other building systems, and generate data to support comfort and productivity. As a result, contractors need smarter, more flexible solutions that are built for the future. That’s only possible with a wireless, digital lighting control system.

In a 0-10V lighting control system, every zone needs its own dedicated low-voltage control wire, and once a zone is defined, there is no way to change it without rewiring the fixtures. This may not be a problem on a small project, but across dozens of zones, multiple floors, and additional home runs, conduit, and wire terminations, analog systems present more opportunities for installation errors and scheduling complexity, as well as increased likelihood for callbacks during commissioning.

By comparison, a wireless, digital lighting control system fundamentally changes the equation. By eliminating the low-voltage control wires and allowing system settings to be assigned and reassigned through the system software, the system is more flexible. Zone changes that used to take days take minutes with no new wiring and very little disruption to the space. 

Adaptability for End Users with Wireless Digital Control

In office buildings and other commercial spaces, the ability to pivot is paramount. Tenants change, and spaces get redesigned and evolve to serve an increasingly diverse and mobile workforce. Installing wireless digital lighting control allows local facility managers to manage day-to-day pivots themselves via an intuitive app or web interface — reducing contractor callbacks and shifting their role from technician to trusted advisor.

The lighting infrastructure is also easier to adapt and scale over time. Contractors can expand a system, upgrade fixtures, even add a whole new floor, responding to shifting tenant needs without having to rewire existing fixtures. This approach gives you the flexibility to design the right lighting strategy for each space, optimizing control in key areas without compromising the budget in spaces where static white control is sufficient.

Including Luminaire Level Lighting Controls (LLLCs) as part of a wireless solution provides the highest level of system flexibility. With LLLCs, control intelligence is directly integrated into each lighting fixture. Equipped with this device, fixtures can be individually controlled or digitally grouped to meet the customer’s specific needs, and those assignments can be changed just as easily. 

Code Compliance and Retrofit Applicability

Energy codes requirements are tightening in most jurisdictions, and contractors are responsible for delivering buildings that stay compliant as those requirements evolve. Lighting and shading infrastructure designed for adaptability — particularly wireless systems — positions building owners to meet future code requirements without major renovation.

For contractors, one of the biggest advantages of a wireless digital control system is in retrofit applications, where the lack of control wiring becomes especially compelling. The quick addition of wireless daylight sensors makes it easy to meet code requirements for daylight harvesting–practical in existing buildings that couldn't support the cost or disruption involved with updating a hardwired system.

For new construction, the calculus is different, but the conclusion is similar: integrated systems designed holistically from the start deliver better performance and better economics than systems bolted together after the fact.

The Business Case for Going Wireless

Wireless systems make installs faster and cleaner. They may reduce callbacks. They support code requirements and the capabilities clients are asking for, and they create post-installation service opportunities that traditional 0-10V systems can’t. 

For contractors who are not familiar with the wireless system landscape, it can be a daunting change, but the returns are worth the investment. Seek out manufacturers who offer on-site and remote training courses, 24/7 support, and a variety of support options. Becoming fluent in wireless system design and installation will broaden your project scope, allow you to take on more sophisticated and more profitable projects, and build client relationships that generate repeat business.

As the lighting control landscape continues to evolve, traditional 0-10V systems will continue to have a place in the contractor’s toolkit, but wireless, digital control is quickly becoming the standard. The contractors who can deliver that standard are setting themselves up for the future of the lighting industry.