Timeswitch Controlled Lighting
In any situation where lighting is required for certain hours of the day or week a basic timeswitch will provide this control. Timeswitches are available as 24 Hour or 7 Day models. Analogue and Digital versions are readily available.
An analogue timeswitch consists of a suitably rated electrical switch operated by a cam. The movement of this cam is provided by a train of gears driven by a small electric motor. The timing is accurate as the motor speed is governed by the frequency of the supply. The dial on a 24 Hour version rotates once every 24 Hours. The dial on a 7 Day version rotates once every 7 days.
A 24 Hour model will provide the same operation every day. A 7 Day model will provide the same operation every week, allowing for different switching times each day of the week. Some makes allow for only two “on” / “off” operations per day / week while others allow for much more. They are often used to provide outside lighting for houses, shops factories etc. Check manufacturers instructions on setting the timeswitch.
Timeswitch Controlled Lighting Circuit
Most timeswitches feature a built in switch. It may be labelled in different ways. It is however a simple two way switch with an “OFF” position. It allows for the timeswitch load to be permanently off, permanently on or timed. An indicator light is another useful feature as it gives clear indication that the supply is on the load. It is connected across the outgoing supply from the timeswitch.
Remember that any load supplied via a timeswitch may be powered up unexpectedly.
