Intelligent Lighting : D4i certification and DALI for LED drivers

 

Intelligent Lighting : D4i certification and DALI for LED drivers

Introduction

D4i certification brings the power of DALI technology directly into the heart of smart, IoT-ready luminaires. By simplifying control and power needs, D4i makes it a breeze to integrate sensors and communication devices directly within the luminaire itself. This eliminates the need for bulky external components, streamlining the design process.

At the core of D4i are intelligent LED drivers. These drivers not only power the luminaire, but also boast the ability to store and report a wide range of data in a standardized format. This data includes everything from luminaire details to energy consumption and even diagnostic information.

These intelligent D4i luminaires become ideal platforms for the Internet of Things (IoT). Equipped with on-board D4i sensors, they can gather valuable information about their environment. This data becomes the fuel for various applications, such as performance monitoring, asset management, and predictive maintenance. Additionally, D4i control devices with wireless capabilities can facilitate communication and data exchange with external networks, unlocking even greater possibilities.

In essence, D4i builds upon the foundation of the DALI-2 certification program. D4i LED drivers come with a mandatory set of features that ensure consistent power delivery and unlock the potential for intelligent data collection. This empowers luminaire manufacturers to create truly smart and connected lighting solutions.

D4i for LED drivers

DATA SPECIFICATIONS 

The DALI Data specifications (Parts 251, 252 and 253) are mandatory for all D4i LED drivers. 

	D4i requirement
DALI Part 251 – Luminaire Data	Mandatory
DALI Part 252 – Energy Data	Mandatory
DALI Part 253 – Diagnostics Data	Mandatory

POWER-SUPPLY SPECIFICATIONS

	D4i requirement
DALI Part 250 – Integrated Bus Power Supply	Mandatory
DALI Part 150 – AUX Power Supply	Optional

D4i drivers are a convenient option for incorporating DALI sensors and other low-power control devices into luminaires. These drivers have a built-in DALI bus power supply, eliminating the need for a separate power source for these devices. This simplifies installation and reduces clutter within the luminaire.

However, for control devices demanding more power, like those used for city-wide wireless communication networks, an additional 24V power supply is necessary. This extra power supply can be either integrated into the D4i driver itself or provided as a separate unit. This flexibility allows for customization based on the specific power needs of the control devices used.

D4i for control device

D4i, defined by DALI Part 351, is a game-changer for powering control devices within or attached to luminaires. These devices can leverage either the DALI bus itself for power or utilize an auxiliary (AUX) supply.

Part 351 establishes four control device classifications (Types A-D) with specific power consumption requirements. It also tackles potential conflicts by outlining a mechanism for prioritizing control devices when multiple units are present.

Encompassing both indoor and outdoor environments, D4i caters to a wide range of control devices. Examples include wireless network lighting controllers (NLCs), light sensors (photocells), motion detectors, and timers.

	D4i requirement
DALI Part 351 – Luminaire-mounted Control Devices	Mandatory

Example D4i: Outdoor luminaire with two nodes

The example below shows a two-node outdoor lighting application. Power is available for both nodes, allowing plug-and-play plug-and-play systems such as Zhaga-D4i. The smart luminaire has sensing capabilities and can transmit luminaire, energy and diagnostic data stored in the LED driver to the external network via the DALI bus and wireless link.