Module for lighting control by Neuberger successfully certified according to DALI-2 standard

Control of lighting technology: With the CM8410 module, Neuberger complies with the DALI-2 standard of the DALI Alliance. (Image: Anja Cross, Neuberger Building Automation GmbH)

The communication module CM8410 from Rothenburg's specialist for building automation, room automation, cleanroom, and process technology has successfully completed the DALI-2 certification process. As a result, all users of the Open.Room room automation system now have access to a certified and manufacturer-independent interface module for controlling lighting devices. A major feature and currently unique in the market for room automation systems: the DALI power supply is already integrated into the module. External power supplies are therefore no longer necessary for projects with Neuberger's Open.Room room automation system.

To enable future-proof and flexible lighting networks, Neuberger developed its own controller with the CM8410 module, which meets all requirements of the open and industry-standard communication protocol DALI-2 from the DALI Alliance. DALI-2 is the latest version of the Digital Addressable Lighting Interface standard.

Control commands, operational data, and sensor functions, which until now could only be implemented with difficulty or very complexly in building and room lighting control, are a thing of the past. With the deployment of the CM8410 communication module in Neuberger's Open.Room room automation system, these can now be controlled easily and across manufacturers via the standardized DALI-2 interface.

DALI-2 offers many advantages and numerous application functions

The open and internationally established interface offers users numerous benefits. The ability to perform event-driven actions and logical connections with control devices, luminaires, and/or sensors provides significant advantages, especially in automation and control of complex buildings. For example, users of DALI systems can control individual luminaires, an entire room, or an entire floor via groups. The DALI system also proves its worth when rearranging rooms. Lighting and sensors can be quickly and easily assigned to newly created zones with DALI-2. Complex and often time-consuming programming is eliminated.

The wiring and thus the installation of lamps, LED luminaires, and sensors are significantly simplified compared to traditional lighting systems. With DALI-2, lighting and sensors can be operated on the same pair of wires — information flows bidirectionally, in both directions. A separate bus cable is not required, which positively impacts installation and setup costs. Additionally, DALI wiring is more cost-efficient due to topology- and polarity-free installation, is considerably more robust in use, and thus longer-lasting. The use of the DALI-2 protocol also noticeably increases the compatibility of devices from various manufacturers. Builders can therefore choose from a much broader portfolio of luminaires and sensors during the planning phase.

For economical, sustainable, and energy-efficient operation

The reduction of energy consumption in buildings is increasingly a focus for operators and facility managers. Implementing lighting control via DALI offers advantages here as well. DALI can extend the lifespan of installed lighting technology through complex lighting scenes and scenarios, colored lighting control, and optimized dimming behavior of LED lighting. The module certification according to DALI-2 also enables the realization of lighting concepts with Tunable White and RGBW for DT8 (HCL – Human Centric Lighting).

Additionally, DALI-2 supports further functions such as energy data monitoring. When combined with Neuberger's ProEnergie software option in the building management system ProGrafNT (also from Neuberger), energy consumption can be transparently displayed and monitored. Resulting optimization measures — including those for the lighting technology used — can be implemented quickly and easily, which positively impacts operating costs in the medium to long term.

“We are very pleased to now be able to offer our customers a module with a DALI-2 interface, following the certifications of our KNX and SMI controllers,” says Enrico Pola, Head of Product Management and Communication Technology at Neuberger. “Implementing room automation projects with DALI-2 opens up the most diverse application possibilities for our customers,” Pola concludes.

With the recently certified communication module CM8410, Neuberger now offers a future-proof and highly flexible module for the digital control of lighting and other components of lighting systems.