Switch with off timer: how it works and which type is better to choose

Scope of sockets with on and off timer

The timer was primarily designed to save electrical energy. It ensures that the heating devices are turned off for a time when the residents of the house are absent and there is no need for heating. Before the owners return, the system starts up.The timer activates the appliances a few hours before the arrival of residents, so that during this time the temperature in the rooms reaches a comfortable level. This principle is applied in modern smart home systems. They not only carry out climate control, but also regulate the operation of lighting, alarms, etc.

 
On a note! Not all manufacturers of sockets with a timer for turning on and off the light recommend controlling the operation of heaters in automatic mode. Before buying, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions.

Cyclic timers are suitable for outdoor lighting that will turn on and off according to a specific schedule. This type of device allows you to automate the operation of the irrigation system at their summer cottage, providing regular care for the garden, vegetable garden, lawn. Of particular importance are timers for aquariums where:

• lighting lamps;
• compressors;
• filters.

Timers are used to control lights, fans, heaters, aquariums, etc.

All these devices provide the necessary conditions for keeping living creatures in a terrarium or aquarium, so their work must be subject to a strict schedule. The possibilities of timers allow you to control even equipment installed in the pool.

Sockets with a cyclic timer for switching on and off electrical appliances are used to create the illusion of the presence of people in an empty house. To some extent, such devices provide protection against hacking, making it clear to intruders that the owners have not left, even if this is not the case. In this case, the outlet is configured so that the schedule for turning off and on the light is not too rigid, but with some deviations.Thus, it seems that the system does not work automatically and people turn on the lighting.

Sockets with an off timer, called interval sockets, work on the principle of devices installed in electric stoves and washing machines. By turning the knob, you can set a specific period of time. After it expires, the relay automatically turns off the current supply to the device.

Advantages and disadvantages

The sockets in question have many advantages compared to conventional ones, but they are not without drawbacks. The benefits include:

• Energy savings, which is especially important for farms. Allows you to automate the process of supplying heat and light to the complex when it is needed.
• Automation of the smooth operation of devices, which greatly simplifies life and significantly saves time. After all, you can simply forget about many routine duties.
• Ability to develop a comfortable and planned schedule for the operation of devices.

The main disadvantages are mechanical sockets. These include the unreliability of the timer, a short operating time of the programmer (no more than a day), noise and a short service life.

Electronic devices have much fewer drawbacks, which depend on the specific model. For example, often the timer runs on a battery and does not depend on the general power supply system. In the event of a power outage, it will continue to work steadily, and the user will not know about the problem in the network.

How to set up an electronic socket timer

There are many varieties and models of electronic socket timers. But in general, the principle of their settings is similar.Almost all of them are equipped with a liquid crystal display, which displays the settings and current menu items. Below it is a row of buttons for controlling and setting the time.

Usually the set of buttons on different timers is the same

Their set is usually the same on different models. Here is a list of common controls:

• master clear. In instructions for timers, it usually starts the initialization of the device. It is a reset button for all settings from memory, including resetting the current time. By the way, the button can be called simply reset or "reset";
• random or rnd. Setting or resetting the random activation mode;
• clk or clock. The button has several functions. Time setting with hour, min, week buttons. Together with the timer button, it translates time formats;
• timer. Actually, setting the timer. Used together with week, hour, min buttons;
• rst/rcl. Disabling and enabling programs;
• week/hour/minute. Setting the time for the week, hour minute.

In general, installing and setting up an electronic timer for turning on and off according to a given program is no more difficult than on a simple electronic wrist watch. The buttons may have different names depending on the manufacturer, or they may even be localized into Russian.

One of the most popular models on the market is the TE-15 digital timer, which is produced by several manufacturers. Its configuration scheme is as follows:

1. After turning on, the first thing you need to do is press the reset button and wait for the built-in memory to be completely cleared.
2. Next, you need to set the current time and day of the week. The first indicator can look like "24" and "12". The days of the week are named after the first letters of Latin words.Setting the desired parameter is carried out using the "D +", "Ch +" and "M +" buttons.
3. The timer has 4 modes of operation, the choice of which is carried out by pressing a similar key.
4. To start programming, you need to press the "P" button and sequentially set the days of the week and the start time. The end of the program cycle will be the second pressing of the "P" key.
5. The next step is to set the days of the week and the time to turn off, the confirmation of the action is completed by pressing the "H +" button.

When installing such a device inside the shield, you will need the help of an electrician

The user has the opportunity to make adjustments to the settings in case of a mistake or if it is simply necessary to make changes

It is very important to properly install the timer, since this model is installed directly on the power cable

Model TE-15 is one of the most popular options for DIN rail mounting.
Masterclear is a convenient and simple plug-in model

Setting the Masterclear timer according to the instruction manual

An equally popular model that is found on the market is the Masterclear socket timer. It has a more understandable setup algorithm, but you should be prepared that all the inscriptions are in English:

1. The device must be charged before operation, as it has a built-in battery to save the settings. You also need to reset all previous settings by pressing the red recessed button below the display.
2. Setting the time is done by holding down the Clock key and successively pressing Hour (hours) and Minute (minutes). The Timer button is used to change the time display format.
3. The days of the week are set in the same way: hold down the Clock button and select the desired period using the Week key.
4. To program the on and off cycle, press the Timer button until ON appears on the screen. Next, the required time and days of the week are set.
5. The shutdown setting is done in the same way, but when you press Timer, the OFF inscription should be lit on the screen.
6. The programming menu is exited by the Clock button.

Setting a timer is a way to save electricity consumption for any appliance.

Once again, you can see the subtleties of the settings from the presented video.

DIN rail mounted

A distinctive feature of this type of timers is that they are installed in an electrical cabinet (shield), and a specific group of the electrical network is connected to them. The principle of operation and settings for timers of this type are the same as for those installed in a socket, and a standard DIN rail is used for mounting in an electrical cabinet.

Model "TCD-2" for installation on a DIN rail

Timers mounted on a DIN rail come with a mechanical and electronic type of control and are used in single- and three-phase electrical networks, which is provided for by a specific model of the device.

Circuit breaker (motion sensor)

The switch is equipped with an infrared radiation sensor. At the slightest movement of the object, the sensor turns on the light for a short time. The sensor constantly captures the movement, as soon as the vibrations stop, the lighting goes out after a few seconds or minutes.

The sensor is installed where there is no need for continuous lighting of the room, to save electricity.Switches - automatic machines can often be found in the entrances. On the street, in inclement weather, while the trees are moving, the sensor will be triggered to turn on.

Choosing the optimal model

The main determining indicator for the full operation of the sensor switching device is the characteristic of the electrical network. The required voltage rate of 220 V is not suitable for all models. There are options with a deviation of 20-30%.

Therefore, when choosing, you should pay attention to the threshold voltage values ​​\u200b\u200bspecified in the characteristics of the device. In case of significant deviations, it will be necessary to additionally install a stabilizer, through which the oscillations will be leveled

In order for the purchase of an electronic switch to meet all expectations and the device to significantly increase the degree of comfort in the room, when choosing, it is worth considering the necessary functionality that the device should have

To determine the appropriate model of a sensor product, it is necessary to take into account the priority features, the presence of which is necessary:

1. The number of groups of bulbs connected to the regulator - there can be one, two or three.
2. Intensity. Some devices are additionally equipped with a dimmer, through which the strength of the current supplied to the bulbs changes.
3. Built-in timer. In walk-through models, an automatic shutdown timer is set, which works after a specified time. These devices are mostly used for corridors and landings.
4. control method. It all depends solely on the preferences of the buyer. There are devices controlled by remote control, touch, sound, etc.

Having decided on the set of necessary functions, you should stop at one of the presented manufacturers. The price category of devices is not cheap, therefore, when purchasing a low-cost product, you may encounter a low-quality counterpart.

The Belgian brand Basalte is focused on elite class products. The Deseo model is the epitome of multifunctionality and sophisticated design. Almost all products have LED lighting.

The Belgian company Basalte produces high quality touch control devices. In development, they are oriented towards consumers with the highest demands.

Elite models are distinguished not only by their original design, but also by one of the highest price categories. Nevertheless, the cost is fully offset by ease of use, the presence of various functions and simple regulation.

Despite the fact that many buyers are biased towards Chinese products, Livolo has been able to prove the quality characteristics of its products.

Among Chinese representatives, Livolo is noted. The main advantages of touch switches of this brand are the affordable cost of products and original design solutions for home improvement that can emphasize individuality.

At the same time, the range is not limited to technically simple models. It is also worth noting the constant replenishment of the range.

We also recommend reading our other material, where we talked in detail about how to assemble the touch switch yourself.

Device Selection Criteria

When choosing a switch, pay attention to the following points:

• how many devices can be connected to one device. Optimal 1-3. More than three - inconvenience in use;
• is the switch equipped with a dimmer - a device for adjusting the intensity of lighting;
• the presence of a timer;
• possibility of remote control.

The body of the switch can be made of plastic or glass. The second option will cost more. A variety of models and firms in the electrical market will help you choose a switch that suits the interior of the apartment, according to your taste preferences.

Which timer to choose

You can decide which option is better: electronic or mechanical, only if you clearly understand for what purpose you are buying it:

• for daily routine operations that have to be carried out at the same time, a mechanical sample is quite suitable;
• in a situation where you want to reduce the degree of human participation in operations or if you need individual functioning according to a given program, you should look at electronic copies;
• for lovers of everything new and advanced, a GSM socket is suitable, the advantages of which are indisputable: adjustment is possible at any distance, a wide range of options, ease of setup;
• be sure to buy a device that matches the power and current strength;
• if you plan to use equipment inside the house in a room, then it makes no sense to overpay for moisture protection, but dust in the room accumulates quickly, so choose an index of at least IP 20;
• for outdoor use, it is better to choose a quality device with at least average resistance, for example, IP 44.

Knowing exactly what the relay will be used for, you can easily find the optimal solution.

In the video, information about which type of device is better to buy for specific tasks.

How to choose?

To choose a good version of the device, you should first understand for what purpose you need it. So, mechanical models usually do not give a large time interval in programming and generally do not allow you to create complex programs, but they can be used as a countdown timer. If your schedule cannot be called constant and predictable, then you simply won’t need advanced, but expensive electronics - after all, you still won’t be able to debug a “smart home” to a schedule that you yourself don’t know.

A reliable and expensive electronic model is usually needed if a lot depends on successful adherence to the schedule.

For some, this is even just their own peace: knowing that at night the area around your house is illuminated, and with the first rays of the morning the light is turned off to save money, while you sleep sweetly, you can not worry about the little things and think more about the really important

At the same time, the maintenance of the same aquarium, not to mention a full-fledged farm or greenhouse, could require you to be constantly present and supervise the situation, but programmable electronics will do everything for you while you are doing your main work or taking time to rest. Even a daily electronic socket with a timer usually copes with the tasks described above, and even weekly models completely untie the hands of their owner.

The program can be set quite accurately, even with a schedule change daily, while after the cycle is completed, it does not go astray - if you have not made any changes, the fulfillment of all the conditions of the schedule will simply repeat on a new one.This allows you to simply cross out some minor worries from your life, which in today's, even too active world, is sometimes simply priceless. For example, you will no longer have to choose between installing a home aquarium and regular business trips or vacations - now one does not interfere with the other.

The modern assortment involves a wide variety of models that are similar to each other in all respects, but the quality, of course, will differ. This product is not yet so promoted that manufacturers or models are too well known, so do not rush to choose the first outlet that comes across - you should first study the reviews about it.

Do not pay too much attention to what is written on the website of the seller or manufacturer - focus on third-party forums dedicated to reviews about everything. That being said, also remember that people are more likely to spit out negativity than to waste time praising something that works as expected, so don't even try to find a device that has collected exclusively positive comments.

The more it depends on the serviceability of the timer, the more responsible you are in choosing a seller.

It will never be superfluous to check the certificates - the purchased electrical appliance must meet the standards of not only reliability, but also safety.

Types of switches

Switches are manually operated switching devices and are used to turn lights on and off. They have different designs and functions, which led to their division into types.

Switches with built-in motion sensor

Switches with a motion sensor are mainly used on flights of stairs and when creating street lighting networks.They are quite easy to use: in order to start using these devices, it is enough to install and configure them according to the instructions.

The appearance of switches equipped with a motion sensor may differ, but functionally they are very similar

The basis of switches with a motion sensor are electronic components that constantly analyze changes in the level of illumination of an object (apartment, street or house), as well as any movements in the zone of operation of the sensor.

The principle of operation of switches with a motion sensor

The operation of a motion sensor switch is based on the continuous scanning of infrared (IR) radiation, covered by the field of view of the sensor (sensor), which is usually made of pyroelectric materials. Basically, these switches have a wide viewing angle and are installed on ceilings. In addition to monitoring the presence of living objects, they have the ability to change the intensity of lighting, and can also be used in various internal security systems.

The switch sensor turns on the lighting when moving objects appear in the zone of its action

Remote switches

The remote switch is a set consisting of a compact control unit and a remote control (there may be several). The device itself is quite similar in appearance to a simple flat-type switch. A distinctive feature of the remote switch is the ease of installation, since in order to install it, it is not necessary to carry out preparatory work (strobe or drill walls), carry out hidden wiring.It is enough just to find a convenient place, take a few screws and double-sided tape and attach the device.

Installing a remote switch does not require complex electrical work

The principle of operation of remote switches

The operation of remote sensors is based on the principle of reception / transmission. The user presses the power button on the remote control, thereby creating a radio signal, which then receives a relay that closes or opens, depending on the command given from the remote control, a circuit in phase that is supplied to the light source. Depending on the state of the circuit, the light turns on and off. The coverage area directly depends on the design features of the dwelling, as well as on the materials that were used in the construction. In general, the coverage area of ​​remote sensors is from 20 to 25 m. The transmitters are powered using conventional 12 V batteries (usually enough for 5 years).

Video: remote switch

Touch switches

Small and compact devices constructed from multiple touch panels for ease of use. In order to use the switch of this type, it is enough to touch its screen once.

Touch switches operate with a light touch of a finger

These switches include:

• touch panel (an element that responds to touch and initializes the sending of a command for further processing);
• control chip (engaged in processing and converting the command);
• switching part (provides power switching).

Due to the use of electronic components, it is possible to remotely control lighting devices and connect additional elements: motion, temperature and light sensors.

Touch switches can be equipped with a remote control

Video: touch switch

Before purchasing a switch of one kind or another, you should familiarize yourself with the selection criteria, which will be described below.

What types of smart plugs are the most popular?

According to the principle of installation

1. Overhead. They are adapters and are quite popular on the market, since their use does not require special skills: it is enough to plug such an adapter into a regular outlet, configure the necessary functions, and then connect the desired equipment.
2. Mounted. This type of smart socket is installed instead of a regular socket, so you need to think in advance and choose the most convenient place for it to ensure comfortable use of the device. This type of socket also has different power ratings, so this parameter must be taken into account when buying.

By way of management

1. Radio controlled. This is a socket controlled by a remote control, the signal of which extends to a distance of up to 30 meters. Connects to a regular outlet, like an adapter, equipped with an indicator button on the external panel, showing the device's activity and response to signal reception. There is also a button that allows you to find the remote control if it is lost. Models designed for the streets are protected from moisture and dust.
2. SMS-managed. This type of socket is equipped with a special slot for a SIM card, and is also equipped with indicators showing the receipt of a signal and the presence of power in the network.To control such an outlet, it is enough to send a message to the device, which will serve as a command to turn on this or that device. For example, you can send an SMS message and turn on the split system, electric kettle or lighting before you return home. There are models that send an SMS message to the owner in the event of a power outage. For this type of outlet, you can also purchase additional indicators - for example, temperature and humidity sensors. Many models have a setting for turning devices on and off by time, and are equipped with a timer.
3. Internet-controlled. This type of control does not depend on distance, as it uses the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile). You can control a smart socket from anywhere in the world where there is access to the Internet. Such gadgets can be equipped with additional features, such as a built-in video camera, motion, temperature and humidity sensors, and a timer.

By design features

1. Single socket with remote control.
2. Single model with multiple independent control outputs, each accepting a separate command.
3. An outlet that controls a group of devices that are dependent on it.
4. GSM network filter that accepts commands both for several outputs at once, and for each separately.

What's this?

Now it’s worth figuring out what electronic sockets with a timer are. Such devices are daily and weekly. Daily sockets work on the principle of mechanical ones, but weekly sockets can be programmed for any day of the week individually.

Electronic sockets even have a presence in the house function, as well as about 150 more modes. Almost all of them are equipped with built-in batteries. This means that in the absence of voltage, the settings of this device will definitely not go astray. After all, voltage drops are not a rare case.

At the same time, there is one “but”, after acquiring such a device, first charge the batteries, just plug it into a power outlet and let it charge for 12 hours. At the same time, nothing can be connected to this outlet.

The digital timer can sometimes fail, namely, not turn off at the set time, which is not very pleasant.

How does the time relay work?

The principle of operation of all relays is the same. In general, it can be represented as follows: a conditional "clockwork" in a certain period of time makes a connection of contacts, ensuring the passage of current to the load. It is maintained for a certain period, then the line breaks.

Such relays have another name - an electric timer. A spring, motor, pneumatic, electromagnetic or electronic mechanism can be used as an operating time meter. Less common are thermal options for controlling the response period, which are now used only in electrical equipment protection circuits.

Thermal time relay device

In any kind of control timers, to one degree or another, it is possible to adjust and set the time values ​​that control the operation of the relay, and the duration of its operation.

How to setup?

Customize Job mechanical socket timer pretty simple. First, with the help of a movable spinning dial, we set the current time.You can only turn it clockwise, otherwise the mechanism may be damaged. On the buttons around the dial, the time intervals are set in which energy should be supplied to the connected device. Only after that we turn on the timer socket in the network, and after that we insert the device plug into the configured unit.

Programming electronic switches is a more complex process. Each model has its own setup features, which can be found in the attached instructions. But for this variety, there is the same type of tuning algorithm.

1. Before programming the device, it must be connected to the network in order to charge the integrated battery. The time required for a full charge is indicated in the instructions. Approximate time limit is 12-14 hours.
2. Next, you need to clear the previous timer settings. To do this, there is a button M Clear. She resets the previous program.
3. Set the current time, day of the week, and how they will be displayed.
4. The timer is programmed using the built-in day/week system. You can configure how to turn the device on and off, as well as whole combinations during the day. If on some days the modes are similar, these days can be combined in the settings.
5. To save the set mode, you must press the Time or CLK button - on different devices in different ways - and hold for 5 seconds until the current time appears on the display.
6. Next, insert the plug into the socket. The device is ready to work. Now you can connect the necessary device to the timer socket.

With each device there is a memo in Russian, the difficulties that arise can be solved by referring to it.

How to set up a mechanical timer, see the following video.

Circuit Breaker Maintenance

Switches should be inspected regularly for damage that can be identified by the appearance of the device. During equipment shutdowns as part of maintenance, it should be cleaned, adjusted, carbon deposits removed from contacts, and other necessary operations provided for by the manufacturer's technical documentation.

Every 4 years, devices are subject to regulated current, and 8 years to major repairs. The need for ongoing repairs may be due to:

• violation of the integrity of the elements;
• noise and crackling during the operation of the switch;
• overheating of contacts;
• increased oil consumption.

The work is usually carried out at the place of operation of the devices, trained personnel as part of a specialized organization are involved in their implementation.

High-voltage circuit breakers are important devices, on the serviceability of which the correct execution of switching operations depends.

You can read more in the textbook (starting from page 237, and about choosing a switch from page 268): Open and read the book

Breaker classification

The market offers models with different functionality from different manufacturers. They are divided according to the method of management:

• keyboard devices. To start their work, the user should click on the button. Shutdown will occur automatically after the end of the time period specified by the owner;
• gadgets with built-in sensors (motion, humidity, etc.).Their purpose is to control equipment in premises (residential and commercial) and on the street (for example, to organize lighting in a park). They close the electrical circuit when some event is detected in the field of action and open it according to the set timeout;
• with clockwork and/or calendar of events. This type is often used in security systems where lighting equipment is required to turn on to create the effect of presence of people or raise an alarm. They are able to start / turn off on a timer, and act in a random mode.

Another classification is according to the degree of power autonomy:

• autonomous devices;
• completely dependent on the external network.

As a rule, "smart" switches need additional power supply. In the first case, they are able to work on batteries, and in the second - only from the network. At the same time, there are varieties where the program does not go astray after power failures (with non-volatile memory or a mechanical timer), and resetting the settings. Batteries / accumulators of autonomous options are capable of providing up to a day of work.