ATLANTA—Acuity Brands, Inc. announced the launch of its DC2DC architecture, a distributed low-voltage DC power and digital controls platform. The architecture eliminates the need to convert AC to DC power at the luminaire, resulting in efficiency gains and increased reliability of the lighting system, leading to reduced maintenance and operation costs.
The platform relies on Class 2 cabling to provide power and communications to each luminaire, eliminating conduit, junction boxes, and power packs, while providing greater lighting controls design flexibility with individually addressable luminaires. The DC2DC architecture can also facilitate direct connection to renewable energy sources, supporting buildings converting to more carbon-friendly electric systems.
The DC2DC architecture is ideal for new construction spaces, where both energy efficiency and occupant comfort and well-being are critical factors. It allows for up to 16 lighting zones or up to 8 lighting zones with tunable white, which promotes an intellectually stimulating and comfortable environment.
Native Support for Tunable White Applications
The DC2DC architecture’s control cabling and DC powered LED drivers provide native support for tunable white applications enabling the creation of scenes and modes that can be aligned with key activities during the day.
Luminaires can be individually controlled or grouped in zones, and installation time can be further reduced by leveraging embedded occupancy and daylight sensors within luminaires.
Utilization of Class 2 low voltage DC wiring eliminates the need for power packs, junction boxes, and conduit to luminaires, providing reductions of both materials and related installation hours, and contributing to a reduction in construction carbon footprint. The DCHUB is a single point of AC to DC power conversion and luminaire control interface, reducing points of maintenance.
The DC2DC architecture can be used within a hybrid implementation of DC and AC powered lighting systems within one building. It is part of a unified platform through nLight networked controls, enabling building-wide control and lighting strategies.
Learn more about DC2DC architecture on our site.
