The standard for lighting control - DALI
Developed by the Digital Illumination Interface Alliance (DiiA), DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) revolutionizes lighting control by replacing the traditional 0/1-10V standard. It enables comprehensive management, configuration, and programming of lighting systems, whether traditional or LED, through robust two-way communication between devices and control systems. DALI operates under the IEC 62386 standard, ensuring interoperability across different brands—a unique feature in the lighting industry.
DALI's digital protocol facilitates flexible, scalable lighting networks with bidirectional communication, supporting functions like on/off commands, dimming, fault reporting, and data exchange. Its Master/Slave architecture allows for precise digital control of individual devices or entire groups, and programming can be done via broadcast or group commands. DALI networks are straightforward to install and maintain, offering reliable operation and independent lighting programming through software.
A significant advancement is the DALI-2 protocol, enhancing DALI with advanced features and broader compatibility, further solidifying its position as the leading standard for professional lighting systems.
The data transmission signal is via standard 2-wire 1.5mmq bus line, with a speed of 1.2Kbit/sec.
Addressing options:
- Global (all feeders: ''Broadcasting'' communication)
- Individual (channel addressing: 64 channels maximum)
Simplified reconfiguration in the event of a change in building use.
- Up to 64 individual units, 16 groups and 16 scenes on DALI line
- Status confirmation for individual lights
Storage of configuration data (e.g., group assignments, light scene values, dimming times, emergency lighting/system failure level, level power supply) in electronic control gear (ECG).
- Bus topologies: line, tree, star (or combinations thereof)
- Cable lengths up to 300 meters (depending on conductor cross-section)
DALI Briefly Explained
The manufacturer-independent protocol defined in IEC 62386 ensures seamless interoperability among control devices in digitally controlled lighting systems, including transformers and power attenuators. It supersedes the commonly used 1-10V dimmer interface, offering standardized communication protocols that enhance compatibility and functionality across different lighting devices and brands. This standardization simplifies integration and enhances the flexibility and performance of modern lighting control solutions.
Building lighting control: DALI applications
The DALI protocol is widely employed in building automation to oversee both individual lights and lighting groups. It utilizes short addresses to assign lights to drivers and group them accordingly. A DALI master can manage up to 64 devices on a single line, each capable of being assigned to 16 different groups and scenes. This bidirectional communication allows for switching, dimming, and the transmission of status messages from operating units to the controller.
DALI enhances flexibility by enabling easy adjustment of lighting control through software updates, without requiring hardware modifications. Lights can be reassigned or regrouped effortlessly post-installation, facilitating adaptation to new room configurations or usage scenarios. Moreover, advanced DALI controllers can integrate seamlessly into broader control systems and interface with comprehensive building automation networks via bus systems such as KNX or others.
Why choose a DALI system over a 1-10V analog system
-Greater simplicity in wiring and installation
-No polarity for DALI control cables
-Centralized control
-Individual, group or overall light source addressability
-Status feedback from ballast or light source (lamp ON/OFF, operating status, brightness percentage)
Advantages of the DALI System
-No need to worry about polarity in wiring cables.
-No need for separate bus lines (power + signal)
-No need for group wiring
-DALI devices (power supplies, dimmers, etc.) can be addressed individually
-No need for special modules to store scenarios
-No need for external relays to turn off power supplies
-State-of-the-art sensors and devices
-Energy savings
-Increased comfort
DALI-2: the differences with the DALI-1 version
DALI-2 represents a significant advancement over the original DALI protocol, seamlessly integrating into IEC 62386 and DALI Alliance specifications through collaborative design and development efforts. One of its primary benefits is backward compatibility with DALI, allowing DALI-2 LED drivers to operate within existing DALI lighting systems, and vice versa.
DALI-2 introduces several enhancements over DALI-1, including support for additional lighting control devices like buttons, sensors, and LED drivers that were not previously included. Certification under the DALI-2 standard involves rigorous functional and interoperability testing conducted by the Digital Illumination Interface Alliance (DiiA).
Furthermore, DALI-2 introduces a Multi Master architecture, enabling multiple lighting control devices to send commands and signals to the DALI-2 bus simultaneously. This enhances flexibility in data communication and supports independent control across lighting networks.
Additionally, DALI-2 has expanded its functional and application standards, incorporating new provisions for emergency lighting and color control. These advancements contribute to the development of intelligent lighting systems and IoT applications under the new D4i product standard.
Why Choose DALI?
Interoperability
DALI is an open lighting standard that simplifies fixture selection and ensures certified compatibility between control devices from various suppliers.
Flexible and future-proof
DALI allows for flexible space reconfiguration via software without the need for rewiring, making it a sustainable and cost-effective solution. Implementing and improving the system is straightforward compared to other protocols or traditional lighting circuits.
Building efficiency
Lighting control devices play a crucial role in reducing building energy consumption. DALI enhances this effort by extending the lifespan of lighting systems and providing comprehensive visibility to monitor and optimize usage effectively.
Reduced wiring
DALI systems significantly reduce wiring compared to traditional lighting systems, resulting in lower installation costs and simplified implementation. The wiring is cost-effective and robust due to its independence from topology and polarity requirements.
Multiple groups control
DALI enables users to create multiple groups, providing flexible control options for individual luminaires, entire rooms, or even entire floors within a building. This capability allows for precise and tailored lighting management, catering to specific needs and preferences across different areas, enhancing overall user convenience and energy efficiency.
The technical advantages of the DALI system
The DALI system simplifies lighting management in any room by allowing different settings, such as varying light intensities across different areas, to be easily configured and adjusted without physical intervention. It also facilitates the detection and resolution of operational issues, ensuring efficient and responsive lighting control throughout the space.
Energy Savings
Luminaires equipped with an integrated DALI system offer substantial savings in energy, operating, and maintenance costs. By leveraging features like motion sensors and dimming capabilities, DALI enables efficient energy consumption optimization, resulting in significant reductions in electricity usage. Furthermore, automatic and remote management capabilities minimize the need for on-site maintenance interventions, further lowering operational costs.
Where to use DALI-system luminaires?
Luminaires equipped with the DALI system boast remarkable versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of settings, from offices and private homes to large commercial spaces. DALI technology enables precise control over lighting, allowing users to create the perfect ambiance for any activity. Whether it's a focused work environment, a cozy home atmosphere, or an inviting commercial space, DALI ensures the ideal lighting scenario is effortlessly achieved and easily adjustable to meet varying needs.