In the field of lighting control systems, Casambi and DALI show very different characteristics, one of the most significant differences being the way they are connected: Casambi is a completely wireless lighting system, whereas DALI is wired, which leads to a huge difference in the means of control. As DALI is a wired system, it does not have the ability to be controlled wirelessly, which means that it is not possible to control DALI lighting using smartphones, tablets or other common smart devices. However, it is worth noting that the version of DALI + currently under development is based on a Wifi network, which is expected to bring new possibilities for wireless control of the DALI system.
In the field of lighting control systems, Casambi and DALI show very different characteristics, one of the most significant differences being the way they are connected: Casambi is a completely wireless lighting system, whereas DALI is wired, which leads to a huge difference in the means of control. As DALI is a wired system, it does not have the ability to be controlled wirelessly, which means that it is not possible to control DALI lighting using smartphones, tablets or other common smart devices. However, it is worth noting that the version of DALI + currently under development is based on a Wifi network, which is expected to bring new possibilities for wireless control of the DALI system.
In stark contrast, the Casambi Lighting Controller. Configured on the basis of low-power Bluetooth (BLE), which is a standard feature of many smart devices, the Casambi Lighting Controller offers a wide range of compatibility. This gives Casambi lighting controllers a wide range of compatibility, which allows users to control all aspects of their lighting from their own smart devices with the help of the Casambi Control app. Of course, this is not the only way Casambi can control your lighting. If you want to, you can retrofit your existing switches with Casambi modules to take full control of your lighting. In addition, it is possible to install Casambi ready wireless switches, similar to DALI, for even more control.
In terms of installation, Casambi is extremely easy to install as it does not require any wiring. When it comes to adding, removing or replacing luminaires, there are no physical wiring constraints, and all operations can be easily carried out through the app, which greatly enhances the convenience and flexibility of operation.
In terms of signal coverage, whilst cabling is generally considered to be more costly, DALI offers a significant advantage, with a DALI line capable of covering up to 250 metres. In contrast, Casambi’s effective control range is only 80 metres due to the nature of Bluetooth technology. In larger commercial spaces, this limitation of Casambi may have an impact on the layout of the fixtures, resulting in restricted placement. In addition, Bluetooth signals are easily blocked by thick walls and other obstacles, which also affects the stability and reliability of the Casambi system to a certain extent.
Lighting management systems are the ideal choice when you want to control your lighting in the finest detail. DALI has long been a favourite for many lighting projects. At the same time, Casambi is moving forward at an impressive pace and its progress should not be underestimated. At Light4U, we are often faced with the question: when should we use DALI and when should we use Casambi?
Before responding to this question, let’s briefly review the basics. Lighting management systems utilise a combination of hardware and software to maximise the effectiveness of lighting. With a single system, a wide range of lighting scenarios can be set up: the right amount of light output and the right colour temperature, at the right time and in the right place. With state-of-the-art systems, it is even possible to gain a deeper insight into energy consumption. In short, if you want to be able to control every nuance of your lighting, an intelligent system like this is a key element.
But which system to choose – it’s no coincidence that Casambi is so popular. This wireless solution operates on the basis of Bluetooth (low energy technology). With the help of a special app, it is possible to create elaborate scenarios for all connected light points and groups. Lights can be switched or dimmed instantly via the free Casambi app, existing switches or wireless wall controllers. Optionally, sensors can be added to enable the lighting to operate autonomously. For example, depending on the presence of people or the amount of natural light hitting the illuminated space.
A significant advantage of Casambi is the ease of installation, as most of the luminaires in the Light4U range are equipped with Casambi functionality. Even existing luminaires can be fitted with the module. This makes a big difference in terms of cost. Regardless of the option you choose, there is no need to lay any additional cables.
Another of Casambi’s strengths is its Mesh network. Each receiver transmits the signals it receives. This extends the limited signal coverage of Bluetooth. In this way, you can build a more reliable and wider network with every device, switch or sensor. However, the use of Bluetooth technology means that you need to control the lighting on site. If you also want to adjust the lights in your office from home, you will have to build a gateway.
Can be operated using the free Casambi application;
Quick setup and easy customisation;
No additional installation work is required;
80% of Light4U’s luminaires are Casambi-capable;
The Casambi module is integrated into the driver and is invisible;
The mesh network effectively extends the limited signal range of Bluetooth;
Conventional dimmers and DALI/1 – 10V receivers are available;
The wireless transmitter can be adapted to most standard switching devices.
Options for controlling lighting are limited compared to DALI;
Dimmers are susceptible to interference;
DALI – 1 – 10V receivers cannot switch high power loads.
If you choose DALI, you can make even finer adjustments – DALI is the Digital Addressable Lighting Interface, a system in which each luminaire has a unique address. This bus system is used by many of our customers in retail, office and luxury residential projects. The prerequisite for this is a fixed network connection.
One DALI line can control 64 DALI devices to configure different rooms in an office, retail environment or luxury home. With a DALI router, even more luminaires can be controlled.
All components (light sources, switches and sensors) are connected to the control unit via DALI. With the special control unit, which can be operated via tablet, smartphone or switch, DALI already covers many common scenarios, making it easy to set up a schedule.
Simple 2-conductor standard cable is all that is required;
Simple and quick configuration process;
The ability to create different lighting scenarios;
Luminaires can be dimmed from 0 – 100%;
Automatic dimming control (depending on daylight and the presence of people);
Sufficient daylight reduces energy consumption;
Control of several luminaires via the DALI interface;
Fast fault location and repair;
Unaffected by power failures.
Requires bus cables (challenging to realise in existing home installation environments);
One DALI line can only handle 64 DALI devices;
Higher control costs, e.g. KNX;
The lack of flexibility to make adjustments after the installation is complete.