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REMOTELY CONTROLLED LAMP PROJECT WITH DIMMING FEATURE

This is the succinct version --- Link to detailed version       

This project is very similar to the basic remote controlled lamp project except that it uses a lamp module instead of an appliance module so that the brightness of the lamp can be adjusted.

Select a Remote Component with Dimming Feature

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Because we have decided that we want to be able to dim the lamp we must choose what is a called a "lamp module." There are several lamp modules available and any of the lower priced units are suitable for this project. All lamp modules must be used with incandescent lamps (under 300 watt) or special compact fluorescent lamps. There is a newer (and more expensive) unit that is called a 2-way lamp module that has a memory feature so that it remembers the brightness level of the last time it was on. Now we have limited the field and can go to a supplier (see our resources page) type "Lamp Module" into their search engine. To summarize: we choose the basic lamp module for this project because it is:

• the only way to control the brightness of the lamp
  
  
• Inexpensive
  

Select a Controller to Operate the Switch

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Now we need a controller to be able to switch the lamp from another location. For our simple system there is really only one choice: THE X10 MINI CONTROLLER. This unit plugs into any outlet and provides convenient control of up to four modules. To summarize: we choose the mini-controller for this project because it is:

• Inexpensive
  
• Versatile (we can expand the project to control up to four items)
  
• Simple and convenient (just plug it into any outlet near where you want to use it)
  
• Has a small light that flashes to confirm that control signals have been sent
  

The mini-controller does have some disadvantages.

• It does have to be plugged in. If you don't have an outlet near where you want to use it, you may have to choose a more expensive and complicated battery operated remote.
  
  
• You need a horizontal surface to set it on (night stand, shelf, etc.). If you need mount your controller on a wall you should consider either a battery operated remote or a controller you can mount in place of a standard wall switch.
  

Plug your lamp into the lamp module and the module into a wall outlet. Plug the mini-controller into any convenient wall outlet. That is all there is too it. Press the #1-ON switch to turn your lamp on. Press the #1-OFF switch to turn your lamp off. When the lamp is on you can dim it by pressing and holding the dim button until you get the desired light level. Once it is dimmed you can increase the brightness by pressing the bright button. If it works (and it should) you are done. If it doesn't, check our troubleshooting page.

WHAT'S NEXT?

Now that you've succeeded in installing your first simple system, you are probably ready to try something a little more advanced. If so check this section on the detailed page

ORDERING THE COMPONENTS

To order from Smarthome (or just see their description of these devices) click on the Smarthome X10 affiliate link below:

X10

OTHER LINKS

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Starter Project --- Select a Project --- Alternatives to the Mini-Controller -- Battery Operated Remotes -- Help with Troubleshooting -- Help with Addressing -- Deal Finder -- Resource Page - Affiliate Information -- The Newbie Club

(C) Donald Scouten 2003