Automatic sunset and sunrise calculation now in a programmable lighting control unit.
Smart on-off programmable time switch optimizes lighting. Turn-on and turn-off times by accurately calculating sunset and sunrise times based on longitude and latitude. Unit employs sophisticated astronomical mathematics for sunset and sunrise calculations; therefore light sensors are not required.
Capabilities include scheduling multiple part-night and weekend operations for two independent zones of control.
Ripley Lighting Controls, Division of SouthConn Technologies, Inc. announces the release of the RA8416 Lighting Control Unit. The RA8416 is a two zone, ON-OFF, programmable electronic astronomical time clock. Powered by 110-240 Volts AC, the unit automatically calculates daily sunset and sunrise times for adjusting and optimizing Turn-On and Turn-Off times for numerous lighting applications.
The RA8416 utilizes Astronomical Mathematics to calculate Sunset and Sunrise times each day. These calculations are based on Longitude and Latitude values (daylight sensors are not required) and are accurate to +/- 2 minutes in calculated Sunset/Sunrise time. Additionally, Daylight Savings Time shifts are managed automatically; eliminating the need and labor expense of field adjustments required by mechanical time clocks.
The RA8416 is designed for DIN rail mounting in an enclosure. Its compact size and small footprint make it an ideal choice as a direct replacement for existing inaccurate and unreliable mechanical time clocks. The unit measures approximately 3.5"H x 2.8"W x 2.6"D and weighs only 7.5 ounces.
An alphanumeric liquid crystal display provides four lines of operating and programming information at twelve characters per line. An eight button built-in keypad facilitates setup and programming, and also serves as a means to manually override programmed functions.
Two SPST relay outputs provide two zones of programmable ON-OFF control. Each relay can be independently programmed for ON or OFF operation by specifying the Time-Offset and Off-Hours in reference to sunset and sunrise. The reference time can be based on either Sunset/Sunrise or Begin/End of Twilight. Referencing ON/OFF operation to twilight provides maximum utilization of natural lighting throughout the year. Relay contacts are rated for 8 amps resistive load from 30 Volts DC to 240 Volts AC.
Operating mode features for two independent outputs include: ON/OFF/PULSE; for daily, part-night, and weekend scheduling of either output, Off-Hours Switching; to turn off either output for a specified time period (maximum 23 hours), Alternate Mode; for alternating settings between outputs, Weekly OFF; for specifying extended weekly off periods, and Season Mode; for specifying time offset for rainy or cloudy seasons.
An optional memory card allows for convenient user backup and quick reprogramming. Optional PC software facilitates serial communications with the RA8416 for easy programming, file loading, file saving, file transfers, and for graphically viewing sunset and sunrise data for an entire year.
New directives pertaining to Lighting Curfews, The Federal Energy Act, California Title 24 and The Dark Sky initiatives, are requiring manufacturers to rethink and implement lighting controls that conserve energy, minimize light pollution and light trespass, and maintain nighttime safety. The innovative design of Ripley's RA8416 Lighting Control Unit simplifies compliance with these regulations and ordinances.
