Lysdæmpers

Lysdæmpere, also known as dimmers, are electronic devices used to reduce the intensity of light emitted by a lamp. They work by controlling the amount of power delivered to the light bulb. Different types of dimmers exist, each suited for different lighting technologies.

Incandescent and halogen lights are traditionally dimmed using resistive dimmers, which reduce voltage by adding resistance in series with the bulb. However, this method is inefficient and generates heat. Modern dimmers commonly employ phase-control technology, often referred to as leading-edge or trailing-edge dimming. Leading-edge dimmers are typically used for incandescent and halogen loads, while trailing-edge dimmers are better suited for electronic transformers found in low-voltage halogen systems and are increasingly used for LED and CFL lamps.

LED and compact fluorescent (CFL) lamps require specific types of dimmers. Standard dimmers designed for incandescent bulbs can cause flickering, buzzing, or premature failure when used with LEDs or CFLs. Therefore, dimmable LED and CFL bulbs must be paired with compatible dimmers. These are often labeled as "LED compatible" or "CFL compatible" and may employ different dimming principles, such as pulse-width modulation (PWM) or a constant current reduction (CCR) method. The compatibility between the dimmer and the bulb is crucial for smooth and effective dimming performance. Smart dimmers, controlled wirelessly via apps or voice commands, are also becoming more prevalent, offering advanced control and integration with home automation systems.