Lighting: Outlets and Dimmers

The simplest form of lighting system is shown opposite. This is cheap, but not very flexible. In order to change the light intensity on a particular area the luminaire has to be moved, or the spot/flood mechanism has to be operated (on soft-edged spotlights). Alternatively, part of the luminaire lens can be obscured, for example by using ‘wires’ (Windolite) which reduce the light by approximately 25%, or the wattage (power-rating) of the lamp can be changed. Dual-wattage lamps provide alternative outputs by filament- switching.

Dimmers

Extra flexibility is obtained if a dimmer is used for every lighting circuit, as this will enable swift adjustment of lighting levels. Avoid using a patching system (see opposite) ...

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