Can I use a micro dimmer switch in conjunction with an existing “standard” in wall dimmer switch, or it requires the use of a traditional rocker switch? I want to be able to keep my existing switches in a n-way configuration while adding z-wave and dimming capabilities. I would prefer to still have access to the dimmer at the switch and not have to rely on the controller to perform dimming.
Did you go on their site and read the manual?
[b]Change Mode on the External Switch/Button Control[/b][ul][li]The Aeotec Micro Smart Energy Illuminator G2 is set to be controlled via 2-state(flip/flop) external wall switch by default. Pushing and holding the button 6 seconds on the Micro Smart Energy Illuminator G2 will swap between this default mode and the momentary push button external wall switch mode.[/li]
[li]Through the usage of Z-Wave command built into Z-Wave certified controllers and gateways. (The specific Z-Wave command supporting this funtion is Configuration Command Class) Please consult the operation manual for these controllers for specific instructions on changing external wall switch mode of the Aeotec Micro Smart Energy Illuminator G2.[/li][/ul]
In order to dimm the light using the external switch you will need to us a momentary push button type switch.
- Garrett
Where does one find such a thing? I’m interested in replacing some three-way switches (one rotary dimmer and one toggle switch controlling ceiling lights), but want to allow dimming from either switch plate.
I’ve seen momentary switches which stay in a neutral middle unless pushed up or down ? but all the momentary push-buttons I’ve found are for electronics projects, rather than for residential switch plates. Ideally the product would fit in a standard toggle-size hole: my wife isn’t as fond of Decora.
Thanks for any help or suggestions. (Oh, and this is for a home in the U.S.)
The Aeon doesn’t know if it’s a actual push button, or a momentary decora-style switch like the Pass & Seymour TM870STMWCC6. There’s no “neutral middle” on a two pole switch.
How does the Aeon turn off in this mode? Does it ramp up and then ramp down to off?
[quote=“Oryzarius, post:3, topic:178855”]I’ve seen momentary switches which stay in a neutral middle unless pushed up or down ? but all the momentary push-buttons I’ve found are for electronics projects, rather than for residential switch plates. Ideally the product would fit in a standard toggle-size hole: my wife isn’t as fond of Decora.
Thanks for any help or suggestions. (Oh, and this is for a home in the U.S.)[/quote]These types of switches are not super common, but there are a few available including:
Pass & Seymour TM870STMWCC6 Garbage Disposal Switch
Morris Products 82101 Garbage Disposal Decorator Switch
There is even this, less than ideal but non-Decora:
Leviton 1257-GYToggle, Double Throw, Center Off, Momentary Contact
[quote=“dzmiller, post:4, topic:178855”]The Aeon doesn’t know if it’s a actual push button, or a momentary decora-style switch like the Pass & Seymour TM870STMWCC6. There’s no “neutral middle” on a two pole switch.
How does the Aeon turn off in this mode? Does it ramp up and then ramp down to off?[/quote]
When using a momentary switch, the Aeon reacts differently to the type of switch press.
A momentary press of the switch (“click”) results in a state change, from On to Off or vice versa.
Pressing and holding the switch results in a ramp action either up or down, based on the previous state.
Is there a setup that would allow two micro dimmers with two switches in a single gang box? Is there a double throw decora style switch? Could small, low voltage momentary button-type switches be placed in a blank faceplate?
I highly doubt you’ll be able to fit two micro switches / dimmers in a single gang box. There is simply not enough room.
- Garrett
As @garrettwp indicated, space will be an issue. A double gang box could prbably accomodate it.
Is there a double throw decora style switch?It's entirely possible, though I've never looked for nor seen one.
Could small, low voltage momentary button-type switches be placed in a blank faceplate?If everything is wired correctly and to spec, it is possible. However, I will not strongly [u]recommend against[/u] such an attempt. The fact that you had to ask means that you do not know enough about it(no insult intended) to do it with [u]guaranteed[/u] safety. One mis-wiring or silly misunderstanding could electrocute someone or burn the house down.
Actually that’s pretty arrogant. I’m sure I’ve been through many more electrical inspections than you. I’ve never seen an aeon dimmer in person and I would like the experience of people who have used it in less conventional ways. Does aeon put specific restrictions on the low voltage side? Is the device restricted on the low voltage side to switch devices that will not become hot with a single failure?
Guilty as charged.
I'm sure I've been through many more electrical inspections than you.This made me chuckle. I'm pretty sure there's a word for that. ;)
Does aeon put specific restrictions on the low voltage side?I don't know. I don't even know what the question means.
Is the device restricted on the low voltage side to switch devices that will not become hot with a single failure?I'm still unclear what you are asking. There is no protection against people who don't fully understand what they are doing connecting line voltage/current, as is depicted in many (official)wiring diagrams for these microswitches, to push button switches that would be very unsafe carrying line current.
See the attached engineering spec. It should answer any technical question you may have.