Ledalite Introduces New Airwave Wireless, Self-Powered Controls Technology

Ledalite has launched Airwave: a set of wireless and self-powered controls that use natural sources of energy including solar power and kinetic motion to wirelessly communicate with luminaires.

Airwave is a battery-free solution that makes lighting and control systems more personal, flexible, energy efficient and cost-effective than ever before. Just the simple little motion of pushing an Airwave switch captures enough kinetic energy to transmit wireless commands allowing light fixtures to dim or turn ON/OFF. Similarly, Airwave photosensors - powered by tiny integral photovoltaic cells - monitor ambient light levels and wirelessly signal luminaires to reduce output and save energy when there is sufficient natural light. Airwave can be used with all Ledalite recessed and suspended lighting products.

Tim Berman, President of Ledalite, is genuinely excited by the latest technological developments. "Since our highly successful introduction of Ergolight over a decade ago which fully integrates luminaires, controls and communication to deliver massive energy savings, Ledalite has been a market leader and outspoken advocate for the adoption of more personalized, intelligent, distributed controls," he said. "With the advances of wireless communication and miniaturized energy harvesting technology, Airwave takes energy savings and controls to a whole new level - giving people greater control of their luminous environment while simultaneously eliminating many of the traditional obstacles like hardwiring, complex commissioning and cost. Airwave is a way to enhance our experience inside the built environment and positively impact our natural environment," added Berman.

With no hardwires and no batteries required to operate, Airwave components can be mounted virtually anywhere on any surface including glass, concrete, tile and wood. Using wireless controls can reduce the amount of copper wiring infrastructure required in a facility by up to 30% while also distributing access to lighting control and energy savings opportunities to many more users. No special devices, hardware or software are required for commissioning as all start-up and reprogramming can be done with the wireless switch. Airwave components are compatible with other common energy savings devices including occupancy sensors and Ledalite's own Response fixture integrated daylight harvesting sensors. Airwave controls are based on the industry standard wireless communication protocol originally developed by EnOcean Technologies and is fully UL and FCC approved for use in North America.

(Source www.bctechnology.com, 16.03.2009)