ALC Wiring Questions

[broconne]

Have a few questions about what components are needed for an OnQ/ALC lighting system.

Been browsing the ALC/OnQ site and looking at the components on setnet. But I am still unsure of a few component requirements.

I will take a shot at it, but let me know if I am off base here.

For sure the Lighting Controller (364644-01) is needed.
Then the lighting controller gets wired to "Expansion Module" (364726-01)
Then I get a bit lost.. What does that get wired to? I plan to homerun all switches so I am looking to control as many devices from one controller as possible. When I read the specs, it says things like "controls up to 31 devices', but then states it controls up to 9 switches.. so that part has me confused.

I guess the question is.
To control the max number of devices what components do I need?
The lighting controller says it can control up to 31 ALC dimmers, relay switches, etc. Is that with expansion modules or without?

If I go over 31 devices, I assume people just use two lighting controllers generally? Upstairs/downstairs?
Thanks!

 

[Sacedog]

If you are looking at using ALC, make sure to read this entire thread:

http://www.cocoontech.com/index.php?showto...hl=alc+lighting

It contains lots of information regarding wiring, the componants to use, and other tips.

If you want more than 31 switches, you can add in Branch Hubs onto the Distribution Modules. Are you going to use the ALC system in stand-alone mode, or are you planning on hooking it up to an Elk system? If you are hooking it up to an Elk, you can purchase the Elk module, and forego the controller.

 

[broconne]

If you are looking at using ALC, make sure to read this entire thread:

http://www.cocoontech.com/index.php?showto...hl=alc+lighting

It contains lots of information regarding wiring, the componants to use, and other tips.

If you want more than 31 switches, you can add in Branch Hubs onto the Distribution Modules. Are you going to use the ALC system in stand-alone mode, or are you planning on hooking it up to an Elk system? If you are hooking it up to an Elk, you can purchase the Elk module, and forego the controller.

Did you end up going ALC/OnQ? How well has it worked for you? Any regrets?

 

[Sacedog]

I did end up going with ALC, but I have not taken the time to hook it up yet. I moved in about 8 weeks ago, and have been busy with getting the alarm, network, cable, phone, cameras, and Sage TV up and running. I plan to start on the ALC hookup in a few weeks...my wife and kids leave a lot of lights on, that I would like to turn off automatically.

 

[felixrosbergen]

I did end up going with ALC, but I have not taken the time to hook it up yet. I moved in about 8 weeks ago, and have been busy with getting the alarm, network, cable, phone, cameras, and Sage TV up and running. I plan to start on the ALC hookup in a few weeks...my wife and kids leave a lot of lights on, that I would like to turn off automatically.

I 2nd that...part of this ALC stuff is just for fun and convenience....and part of it should help bring the electricity consumption down. Ofcourse at close to $100 / switch doing this just to save money on electricity is not going to be sensible unless you have a very very long horizon over which you expect the payback.

I found in my current apartment most of the rooms have ceiling fans that have 4 60W bulbs in them, for most rooms this is way overkill. On top of that the wife seems to turn every light on when she gets home for some reason and doesnt turn any of untill we go to bed.

 

[broconne]

Are there manuals/installation instructions available online for the OnQ/ALC stuff?

I can't find any of it on their website.

 

[ryannelson]

Are there manuals/installation instructions available online for the OnQ/ALC stuff?

I can't find any of it on their website.

You need to register. Its pretty quick though to get a u.n. and password.
Then go to http://www.onqlegrand.com/techdoc/

 

[broconne]

Are there manuals/installation instructions available online for the OnQ/ALC stuff?

I can't find any of it on their website.

You need to register. Its pretty quick though to get a u.n. and password.
Then go to http://www.onqlegrand.com/techdoc/

Thanks -
I had registered previously and browsed around.. And I have to admit, I must be blind - I still can't find instruction or installation sheet for the ALC 600Watt Dimmer Model 363143.

Does that one item lack instructions?

 

[klindy]

Check out the technical support link at SETNET too. They have a pretty good cross-section of information regarding ALC lighting and how to design, interface and install a system.