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Technological evolutions constantly advance lighting management systems, creating more applications than ever for LED lighting and dimming modules. Those same evolutions are giving rise to the trend known as the Internet of Things (IoT), the general connectivity that results from consumers making the switch to smart, internet-enabled products controlled through smartphone apps and computers. These smart devices simplify the methodology behind commonplace garage door openers, refrigerators, sound and entertainment systems, thermostats and home security systems, among other things, making it possible to modify the statuses of those devices remotely, thus optimizing their efficiency. With the addition of an appropriate Wi-Fi module, LED lighting and dimming easily tops the list of smart technology innovations ready to impact the average household or business.

 

The Growth and Importance of IoT

The progress of smart products can be largely attributed to the enhanced functionality they offer to users. These IoT-centric products save energy, money and time for home and business owners, creating a less hands-on lifestyle for consumers. Automation, instant results and efficiency are hugely positive outcomes of the IoT trend, allowing consumers of individual products or entire IoT-enabled systems to achieve an almost futuristic level of progress in their everyday lives. In fact, according to a recent poll, 68 percent of Americans believe smart homes will be “common” by 2026. IoT is making consumers’ lives easier, and that is paving the way for these smart products and smart homes to become standard in home automation.

IoT and Its Positive Impact on LED Lighting Management

Just as it has enhanced the realms of home security and appliances, the IoT movement has officially rooted itself in LED and lighting management. IoT is aiding countless home and business owners in achieving more efficient, higher quality lighting applications that can be dimmed, illuminated or completely turned off with the touch of a button on a smartphone or computer screen. Before IoT, lights were controlled by a “dumb” lighting switch, a piece of unintelligent, wall-mounted plastic that did not quantify energy savings or allow for precise lighting control. With IoT-enabled lighting devices, consumers have the opportunity to enjoy adaptive lighting systems—systems that will eventually learn consumers’ preferences over time, allow them to track energy usage and savings, and improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Internet-enabled LED lighting systems can be controlled in much finer detail than a traditional or non-IoT lighting system, including brightness and color to enhance moods for different occasions. All of this was previously unachievable before IoT-connected lighting.

For example, when IoT-enabled LED lighting is combined with the appropriate sensor, it can provide more localized details about energy usage and improve home security. One specific application involves motion sensor-activated security floodlights. These lights turn on when something moves in front of them, illuminating the yard and discouraging potential human prowlers. The IoT portion sends alerts to the security system’s owner that the lights have been triggered, keeping homes and families safer. IoT creates countless opportunities like this for future LED lighting applications.

 

GRE Alpha’s IoT-enabled SmartDim Module

GRE Alpha recently presented at the Hong Kong InnoCentre as part of a networking seminar entitled “How IoT and Green Technologies from Science Park Create a Smart Living.” The discussion, led by GRE Alpha’s business development manager, Kelvin Kwong, introduced a new Zigbee-enabled smart lighting module for quick and seamless upgrading of existing LED features into the IoT smart lighting realm. The SmartDim module is an intelligent IoT dimming module that works with the latest IoT-enabled home devices. It easily connects wirelessly to gateways such as a SmartThings® hub or other Zigbee-enabled wireless hubs, instantly converting non-internet LED lighting systems into IoT-enabled smart lighting management systems.

             

Other features of the GRE Alpha SmartDim include:

Compatibility with IEEE 802.15.4 Zigbee Light Link-enabled devices

0-100 percent flicker-free dimming and up to 95 percent efficiency

Suitability for LED lighting and signage applications

For more information on GRE Alpha’s SmartDim, evolutions in dimming efficiency, tips for achieving maximum efficiency and a discussion on the risks of inefficient dimmable drivers, view the presentation by Mr. Kwong.

 

Constant Innovations in LED Lighting

This summer has seen four product launches by GRE Alpha: the 0-10V dimming module, the DALI dimming module, the DMX dimmer and the SmartDim module. These products are cutting edge, top-of-the-line innovations in LED lighting and dimming, providing countless opportunities for lighting upgrades in homes and businesses. As IoT and other advancements continue to drive growth in the LED lighting industry, GRE Alpha will remain committed to innovation and to delivering high-quality, leading-edge LED lighting solutions.

For more information about products, or to speak with a GRE Alpha product expert, visit the Enquiries page and fill out the Enquiry form. Stay tuned for future news about new and current products, LED lighting applications and more from GRE Alpha.

Filed in: New Product