What is lighting control using the DALI interface?

The digital lighting control standard, known as DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface), offers innovative and advanced lighting management solutions. This system not only allows lamps to be switched on and off, but also to adjust brightness, create lighting programmes and control other luminaire parameters via a controller. Importantly, DALI is an open standard, meaning that components from different manufacturers can work together in a single installation, providing flexibility and versatility.

Lighting control in the DALI system takes place digitally, meaning that the controller sends commands to the lamps, rather than regulating voltage or current directly. The lamps in turn send back information about their status, such as faults, to the controller. Communication takes place via a two-wire cable of up to 300 metres, to which up to 64 DALI elements can be connected. This configuration makes the system ideal for complex lighting systems such as building automation, where illuminance sensors can dynamically adjust the output of individual lamps.

Solutions based on the DALI standard offer not only precise control, but also great flexibility. Adapting the lighting system to new needs, such as changing room divisions or operating conditions, is extremely simple and does not require the replacement of fixtures. The luminaires can be assigned and grouped even after installation, which is particularly useful when changing the use of rooms. LED power supplies that support the DALI protocol often allow dimming via PWM, further enhancing the possibilities of lighting control. Simply connect a controller to take full advantage of the advanced features of the DALI system.