12Synergy Lighting Control System

Synergy ® Lighting Control System

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OccupancySensingoccupancy-basedcontrol

Networksystem-wideintegration

Dimmingvariablelight levelcontrol

TelephoneOverridepersonalschedulebypass

PhotoSensingdaylighting,dusk/dawncontrol

Schedulingtime-basedcontrol

Switchingon/offlightingcontrol

2Synergy Lighting Control System

Building construction today continues to grow in complex-ity, creating a diverse set of challenges. Designingcompatible lighting systems in this environment requiresattention to a range of competing demands. Buildingowners want the lowest installed cost, reduced cost ofoperation and the greatest possible return on investment.Building occupants insist on visual comfort, ease of useand greater individual control. Reconciling these demandswith other aspects of the building infrastructure requiresartful integration of available technologies.

The Synergy lighting control system from Lithonia Lightingoffers flexible and scaleable solutions that satisfy therequirements of both owners and occupants. The Synergysystem integrates all aspects of lighting control includinglow-voltage switching, architectural dimming, occupancysensing and daylight harvesting into a single platform. Andwith BACnet® protocol native to its design, Synergy con-trols seamlessly integrate with building automation

systems (BAS).

From basic low-voltage switching to complexnetworked dimming systems, Synergy lightingcontrols provide economical solutions that meetthe diverse demands of owners and occupantsover a broad range of applications fromschools, churches and office buildings toarenas and convention centers.

As a member of the Lithonia Lightingfamily of products, the Synergy system isbacked by the largest manufacturer of light-ing products for commercial and industrial

applications with more than fifty years ofproviding excellence in lighting.

TheatricalDMX512interfacewithlighting

AudioVisualinterfacewithlighting

Our cover illustrates an integratedapproach to lighting control. The

Synergy system yields substantialbenefits over uncoordinatedlighting control strategies.

1Synergy Lighting Control System

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Prioritized LogicA powerful feature of the Synergy system is itsability to specify the priority level at which func-tions will operate. High priority is useful for actionsrelating to security or load shedding. Low priorityallows actions to be conditionally disabled.

For example, a switch set to low priority cannotturn off lighting that is currently on due to a sched-ule operating at a higher priority level.

To simplify setup, Synergy controls automaticallyassign priority levels to all functions that are suit-able for normal operation. These can be modifiedthrough the system controller keypad or via thePC configuration software.

Prioritized logic ensures desired functionality isachieved with minimal programming.

For detailed application information, visit the Appli-cation Design Center at www.lithonia.com/controls.

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Scheduled Zone ControlGeneral illumination for open office areas is controlledby the Synergy system on a zone basis. Lighting auto-matically comes on in the morning to greet arrivingemployees. After a warning blink at the end of the work-day, lighting is automatically switched off. The poten-tially harmful effects of inrush generated by switchinglarge fluorescent loads is nullified by the Synergy con-trol system’s zero-cross switching technology.

Manual Zone ControlManually switching on lighting in the morningmaximizes energy savings and eliminates the need toprogram holidays into the schedule. To prevent tamper-ing, the switch is disabled during normal work hours.Later in the evening, the cleaning crew uses the sameswitch to turn on lighting for a programmed period oftime.

Touch-Tone Phone OverrideEmployees working after hours conveniently respond tothe warning blink of the lighting by pressing a few keyson their phone and extending the lighted period.

Occupancy-Based OverrideOccupancy sensors provide automatic override oflighting during after-hours periods, eliminating the needfor manual override by employees or the cleaning crew.Sensor operation is automatically limited to after-hoursoperation by Synergy controls. Adjacent sensor zonesare logically linked for simultaneous operation to elimi-nate the discomfort of a lone employee working in asmall pool of light.

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Distributed ControlThe control of fluorescent lighting is a key ele-ment in a responsible energy program. Synergycontrols with Digital Equinox provide an effec-tive means to integrate the control of manyindividual zones of fluorescent lighting into theoverall building control strategy.

The Digital Equinox wall station provides localcontrol and acts as a hub for connection of theadditional control devices. Since the signals forthe dimming ballasts, photocells, occupancysensors and the local relay packs are provideddirectly by the station, no additional home runwiring is required.

All stations for an entire floor share a singletwisted pair LAN-connection with Synergy light-ing controls. This provides central monitoring andoverride capability, and allows for exchange ofdata with the building automation system.

For detailed application information about DigitalEquinox, visit the Application Design Center atwww.lithonia.com/controls.

Distributed Personal ControlOffice occupants enjoy personal on/off and dimmingcontrol of their fluorescent lighting from convenientDigital EquinoxTM wall stations. All stations for an en-tire floor share a single network wire. Since the signalsfor the dimming ballasts and the local relay packs areprovided directly by the station, no additional homerun wiring is required.

Occupancy ReportingEnergy savings in small areas like offices is maximizedthrough the use of occupancy sensors. Lighting isautomatically turned off when the occupant leaves theoffice for an extended length of time. Since the Synergycontrol system has “visibility” of the occupancy status,it can be passed on to the HVAC controls via the BACnetprotocol.

Daylight HarvestingThe natural light made available through glazing canbe harvested by a local photocell that dims the fluores-cent lights in proportion to the ambient light present.The daylighting logistics are handled automatically bylogic built into the Digital Equinox wall switch station.

The occupant manually adjusts the lighting in the officeto the desired level using raise/lower push buttons onthe wall switch station. The system automatically main-tains the light level by varying the control signal tothe light fixtures in response to signals fromthe photocell. The user interface is familiarbecause it is similar to that of a thermostat.

Synergy Lighting Control System

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Customized FunctionalityOften field conditions will dictate a requirementfor functionality that is not designed into thebase system. The Synergy lighting control systemallows for customized functions with a uniqueScript Logic feature.

This application language allows customization ofsystem controller operation to suit special require-ments. Using familiar scripting terms like IF, AND,OR and ELSE, logical statements can be created tomodify system output based on a combination oftested conditions.

A script logic file is created using the Synergy PCconfiguration software or a word processor. Oncetransferred to the system controller’s permanentmemory, the custom logic becomes integral to theoperation of the controller.

Script logic is an innovative feature that canenhance the functionality of a Synergy systemin any application, often without the need foradditional hardware.

For detailed application information about theunique script logic feature of Synergy controls, visitthe Application Design Center at www.lithonia.com/controls.

Automatic Contrast ControlLobby lighting is often a compromise between aestheticsand saving energy. In this case, the photocell is set toincrease the level of feature lighting in the lobby duringthe day to maintain a pleasant balance with the level ofsunlight. This photocell operation is automaticallydisabled during weekends.

Manual Remote ControlTime schedules or occupancy sensors may not be ap-propriate for controlling randomly used spaces such asthe loading dock. A set of switches with LED statuslights are conveniently located near the reception deskto control and monitor the lighting in these areas. Forsecurity reasons, the lighting on the loading dock can-not be switched off unless the loading doors are locked.

Programmed Visual InterestA time schedule automatically sets the lobby lightingto appropriate levels to enhance the exterior visual ap-peal of the building during early evening hours. Later inthe evening, the schedule turns off all lighting in thelobby except for security lighting.

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Architectural DimmingUsing high-quality digital dimming modules and avariety of architecturally styled control stations, theSynergy system can be configured for a wide rangeof applications including meeting rooms, conferencecenters, auditoriums, churches, restaurants and multi-function rooms with movable wall partitions.

Synergy dimmers are compatible with most lampsand ballasts and offer smooth, quiet dimming per-formance including 1% dimming of linear fluorescentand 5% dimming of compact fluorescent sources.

Control choices include schedule-based dimming, pho-tocell dimming, compatibility with theatrical controldevices, digital integration with audio/visual systems,in addition to simple manual dimming and multi-presetscene dimming with adjustable fade times.

Minimal hardware and control wiring is required evenin applications with large quantities of dimming chan-nels and multiple presets. A compact handheldtransmitter is all that is required to set up preset sceneson single gang wall stations. An excellent choice forhigh-end finish areas that require sophisticated con-trol without obtrusive control devices.

For detailed application information about Synergy dim-ming, visit the Application Design Centerat www.lithonia.com/controls.

Preset Scene ConvenienceDimming control stations with preset scenes providethe appropriate light levels for all activities held in theauditorium. Projected presentations require low lightlevels, while meetings call for bright lighting. Smoothtransitions between preset scenes are made simply bytouching a button on the control station.

Theatrical FlairCorporate presentations often call for theatricallighting effects for impact or to add a festive mood tothe occasion. A small theatrical control desk providesmore than enough flexibility for these occasions. Thelighting system responds to the DMX control signal fromthe console when required, then automatically revertsto the preset controls when the console is switched off.

Integration with A/VA touch screen control unit and infrared remotetransmitter allow the presenter complete access to allaudio/visual functions as well as integrated lightingcontrol. The A/V system and the lighting system areinterfaced through a standard RS232 serial data con-nection.

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Dusk to Time OperationThe exterior and site lighting is automatically turnedon in the evening by the schedule. An astronomicfeature in the logic allows the system to calculate sun-rise and sunset times for the local. All exterior lightingis utilized during early evening hours. Later, most ofthe exterior lighting is turned off by the schedule toconserve energy and reduce sky glow.

Adjusts to Environmental ConditionsStormy or overcast conditions may call for exterior light-ing and signage to turn on earlier than scheduled. Abuilding-mounted photocell monitors these conditionsand passes light-level information to the Synergy con-trol system. On weekends and holidays, photocell over-rides are ignored.

Because the site lighting is spread out over a largearea, multi-pole lighting circuits are required to effi-ciently distribute power to the lighting poles. The Syn-ergy relay panel provides integral control of multi-polecircuits without external contactors.

Exterior LightingToday, issues like sky glow, light trespass, glare, overlighting and wasted energy are increasingly the sub-ject of codes and legislation. While much depends onluminaire selection, lamps and design practices, theuse of effective lighting controls can have a signifi-cant impact on a number of these issues.

The International Dark Sky Association estimates thatmore than $1 billion is wasted each year on unneces-sary energy use for outdoor lighting. While much ofthis is attributed to lamp and fixture issues, turningoff lighting when it is not required saves a substantialamount of energy and reduces sky glow.

The use of simple dusk-to-dawn controls eliminatesthe waste of burning lighting during daylight hours,but falls short of maximizing the savings that are avail-able. The Synergy system can turn on exterior lightingat dusk, then stage lighting off over time to suit secu-rity requirements as employees leave the property.

For detailed application information, visit the Appli-cation Design Center at www.lithonia.com/controls.

8Synergy Lighting Control System 7

Open Protocol SystemsTo address the issue of interoperability betweencontrol devices in buildings, an “open” communicationprotocol has been developed as an industry standardallowing control devices from different manufacturersto be used together in the same system. BACnet, theANSI standard, is currently supported by most buildingautomation equipment manufacturers.

Synergy is the first lighting control system to bedesigned from the ground up around the BACnet pro-tocol. As a result, Synergy lighting controls canseamlessly interoperate with most popular buildingautomation systems. Relays, dimmers, switches, pho-tocells and occupancy sensors are all network-visibleas “points” and can be mapped into the BAS work-station logic.

Because BACnet is native to the operation ofSynergy controls, the system can function optimallyas a lighting control system, yet still share statusand control with the BAS. This seamless integrationis unencumbered by the restraints imposed by “gate-way” devices often used to interface lighting tobuilding automation systems.

For detailed application informa-tion about BACnet and integratingSynergy controls with buildingautomation systems, visit theApplication Design Center atwww.lithonia.com/controls.

Building-Wide IntegrationAn occupancy sensor turns on lighting in an area inresponse to someone entering. The change in lightingstatus causes the HVAC system to open a damper andadjust other parameters necessary to provide conditionedair to the space. A lighting icon on the BMS workstationscreen changes color to show the change in status.

The operation manager controls and monitors the HVAC,fire protection, access and lighting controls throughoutthe building on a single workstation from his desk. TheSynergy system performs sophisticated lighting controlfunctions on its own, while seamlessly sharing data andinter-operating with the other building systems.

All this is made possible because the controls in thebuilding, including lighting, are interconnected usingthe ANSI standard BACnet communication protocol.

Synergy Lighting Control System

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System EnclosureThree capacities, upto 48 relays or 30dimmers each.

System ControllerPlug-in unit provides for userinterface, program storage,clock and connection toSynergy LAN components.

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Local Area NetworkEach controller supportsa local area networkbus for connectionof I/O devices.

Digital Equinox StationUse with dimming ballast,photo sensor, relay pack andoccupancy sensor for distributedfluorescent control functions.

Digital Remote StationUse for a variety of dimming andswitching functions. Optionalinfrared receiverpermitsoperationand program-ming of preset scenes from ahandheld transmitter.

Preset Control StationPermits saving and recallingpreset lighting scenes.Stations have sixpresets and up to16 control channels.

RS232InterfaceProvides serial

communication betweenSynergy controls andlaptop computer oroutside systems suchas audio/visual.

Telephone InterfaceOptional voicemodem providesremote PC access andoverride of lightingvia any touch-tonetelephone.

DMX TheatricalControlOptional DMX interfaceallows Synergy relaysand dimmers to becontrolled by theatricalsystems.

Synergy GatewayProvides connectivitybetween a SynergyBACnet network andLithonia legacy orthird-party systems.

Fixture withDimmingBallast

Remote Relay Photocell Occupancy Sensor

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Relay ModuleEight single-pole relayswith zero-cross switchingand eight switch and twoanalog input terminals.

Multi-Pole RelaysUp to four 30 ampcontactors with eithertwo or four poles each.

BAS IntegrationAll Synergy inputs and outputs areavailable for interoperation with anyBACnet-compatible building automationsystem without additional programming.

Synergy CONFIG SoftwareConfigure, control and monitorSynergy lighting control panelson site or remotely via phonelines or WAN with thiseasy-to-use Windows®application.

Kwh Usage and TrendingMonitor kwh, trend and graphusage of lighting loads withthis optional add-in to theSynergy CONFIG application.

BACnet WANThis communication backbone allowsany number of Synergy relay anddimmer panels to interact as anintegrated system. Standard inter-

connection is EIA485 twisted pairwire bus and can be extendedbetween buildings with fiberoptics, campus-wide overEthernet or world-widevia the Internet.

Interactive GraphicsMonitor and control lighting viavirtual control panel screenscreated with simple on-boardtools, or import graphic imagebackgrounds to suit projectrequirements.

Legacy Lithonia Products

Digital Ballast Interface

DMX512 Output Signal

Other Manufacturers’ Product

Synergy Lighting Control System

Main Lug OptionAllows several Synergyenclosures to share asingle main feed up to300 amps three phase.

Ballast Control ModuleEight channels of on/off anddimming control for fluores-cent lighting equipped withcompatible solid-statecontrollable ballasts. Alsoavailable with 120, 277 or347-volt circuit breakers.

Dimmer ModuleUniversal load digitaldimmers suitable forincandescent, lowvoltage, neon, coldcathode and fluor-escent loads.

Relays with BreakersAs above with either six120-volt or four 277-volt or four 347-voltbranch circuit breakers.

12© 2002 Acuity Lighting Group, Inc. 03/02 Form No. 763.16 ES5373.p65

Lithonia LightingAcuity Lighting Group, Inc.Lighting Control SystemsOne Lithonia Way, Decatur, GA 30035Phone: 800-533-2719, Fax: 770-987-1002In Canada: 1100 50th Ave., Lachine, Quebec H8T 2V3www.lithonia.com

BACnet® is a registered trademark of ASHRAE.