Dimmer Extension

The Dimmer Extension features 4 Output channels for dimming suitable mains voltage luminaires.

Each channel can be set to trailing edge or leading edge dimming, the Dimmer Extension is thus suitable for resistive (incandescent), capacitive (ELV) and inductive (MLV) loads.

Additionally, 8 digital inputs for 24V are available.

Datasheet Dimmer Extension 230V

Datasheet Dimmer Extension 120V

Table of Contents

Commissioning↑

The Dimmer Extension is installed on a DIN rail in a suitable enclosure.

Connect the power supply and Link communication to the Miniserver.

Connect the loads to the outputs as shown in the example above.

In case of large loads or multiple dimmers, it is advisable to spread the load across several phases as shown in the wiring example. However, a single-phase supply is also possible.

Ensure sufficient air circulation to allow the generated waste heat to dissipate, especially at high workloads.

The Extension starts after switching on the power supply, and the status LED will flash orange after a short time when the connection to the Miniserver is established.

Then follow the pairing procedure

Wiring examples↑

Connecting switches and loads

Setting the dimming mode, for 230V↑

Please observe the recommended dimming type and load limits!
Only use luminaires that marked as dimmable!
Load type Dimming type Max. load AQ1 Max. load AQ2/3/4 Minimum load
Incandescent bulbs Trailing edge 400W 210W -
Mains voltage Halogen lamps Trailing edge 400W 210W -
Low voltage halogen lamps with electronic transformer (ELV) Trailing edge 200VA* 105VA* -
LED light bulb with driver Trailing edge 200VA* 105VA* -
Fluorescent lamp with electronic ballast Trailing edge 200VA* 105VA* -
Mains voltage LED fittings (retrofit, LED bulbs) Trailing edge or leading edge (rare) 200VA 105VA 50VA for leading edge/inductive
Low voltage halogen lamps with magnetic transformer (MLV) Leading edge 400VA** 200VA** 50VA
*The sum of the nominal load of the ballasts, LED drivers or transformers is relevant, not the nominal load of the actual light.
**A magnetic transformer must be loaded with at least 80% of it's capacity!
The ballasts, LED drivers, electronic transformers etc. used must be mains voltage dimmable!
If in doubt, the manufacturer of the luminaire can provide information on the load characteristics (whether inductive or capacitive) and the recommended dimming method.

Setting the dimming mode, for 120V↑

Please observe the recommended dimming type and load limits!
Only use luminaires that marked as dimmable!
Load type Dimming type Max. load per output Minimum load
Incandescent bulbs Trailing edge 200W -
Mains voltage Halogen fittings Trailing edge 200W -
Low voltage halogen lamps with electronic transformer (ELV) Trailing edge 100VA* -
LED light bulb with driver Trailing edge 100VA* -
Fluorescent lamp with electronic ballast Trailing edge 100VA* -
Mains voltage LED fittings (retrofit, LED bulbs) Trailing edge or leading edge (rare) 100VA 50VA for leading edge/inductive
Low voltage halogen lamps with magnetic transformer (MLV) Leading edge 200VA** 50VA
*The sum of the nominal load of the ballasts, LED drivers or transformers is relevant, not the nominal load of the actual light.
**A magnetic transformer must be loaded with at least 80% of it's capacity!
The ballasts, LED drivers, electronic transformers etc. used must be mains voltage dimmable!
If in doubt, the manufacturer of the luminaire can provide information on the load characteristics (whether inductive or capacitive) and the recommended dimming method.

Notes on luminaires↑

Incandescent bulbs

Of all luminaires, incandescent lamps are the easiest to dim, this category can also include Halogen lamps and these are an alternative when the highest quality of light is desired and the energy consumption is acceptable.

Generally, incandescent lamps are always dimmable, even if they are not labeled as dimmable. However, for low-voltage halogen lamps, the transformer must be dimmable.

LED illuminant

In principle, all mains voltage LED luminaires marked as dimmable can be dimmed with the Dimmer Extension.
However, characteristics such as the dimming curve, dimming range, and flicker-free dimming can differ for every luminaire. There may also be batch-related differences in LED lamps.

It is advisable to use high-quality luminaires, which guarantee consistent quality and long-term availability.

If possible, test different LED luminaires for dimming quality before purchasing a large quantity.

LEDs flashing or glowing when off

The outputs of the Dimmer Extension are equipped with capacitors for interference suppression. This results in a voltage being measurable at the outputs even when the outputs are switched off, especially without a load. The voltage disappears with even a low load, as there is virtually no power available here.

However, some low-power LED lamps are so sensitive that this can cause occasional flashing or slight glowing. In such a case, use other lamps or a higher number per channel, or switch them off via an additional relay contact.

Speed control of motors↑

The Dimmer Extension can also be used for speed control of motors via leading edge dimming.
However, only certain motors are suitable for this.

Only use this if you have experience with speed control of motors by phase cutting and if it is known that the motor type used can be controlled by leading edge phase cut and that no dangerous voltage peaks occur.

If the motor is not suitable, this can damage both the motor and the Dimmer Extension!
Such damage is not covered by warranty.

Sensors↑

Summary Unit Value Range
Input 1 Digital 0/1
Input 2 Digital 0/1
Input 3 Digital 0/1
Input 4 Digital 0/1
Input 5 Digital 0/1
Input 6 Digital 0/1
Input 7 Digital 0/1
Input 8 Digital 0/1



Actuators↑

Summary Value Range
Smart Actuator ∞
Smart Actuator ∞
Smart Actuator ∞
Smart Actuator ∞



Diagnostic Inputs↑

Summary Description Unit Value Range
Online Status Dimmer Extension Digital 0/1
System temperature ° ∞
Temperature Shutdown If the CPU temperature reaches a critical point, the outputs of the device are switched off. This can be due to short-circuits, overloaded switching loads or too high an ambient temperature. Digital 0/1



Properties↑

Summary Description Default Value
Serial Number Specifies the serial number of the device.
For Extensions: Enter 'Auto' to automatically pair an extension with unknown serial number.
This can only be used if there is only one Extension of the same type.
Save into the Miniserver, in order to pair the Extension.
Afterwards the program must be loaded from the Miniserver to transfer the actual serial number of the Extension into the program.		 -
Monitor Online Status When selected, you will be notified via System Status or the Mailer if the device is no longer available or goes offline. -
Actuator Type Use device with Standard Actuator(s) or Smart Actuator(s)
Smart Actuators support dynamic fade times and can only be used with the Lighting Controller.		 -



Safety Instructions↑

Installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician in accordance with the applicable regulations.

This device must be mounted on a DIN rail in an electrical distribution enclosure to ensure protection against contact, water and dust.

Only mount the device on a horizontal DIN rail to ensure heat dissipation by convection.

This device must not be used as part of safety-critical systems.

Documents↑

Datasheet Dimmer Extension 230V

Datasheet Dimmer Extension 120V

Thermal Shutdown Temperatures