Domestic lighting: Double programmable light switch or programmble external photo-cel

[GrahamC230K]

Time to call on the resourceful folks here. Does it exist?

I am after a double light switch, that has a programmable timer for at least one of the switches..

I can find programmable single switches, but only basic light sensing/delay timers so far as double switches. The manual double switch I have currently controls one indoor light and the other switch two external lamps which are also further controlled by an external photo cell for dusk till dawn lighting.

For anyone that would like to help, I intend to keep the external photo cell, I want to have the light on in the evening and in the morning, controlled by the external photo cell so it is not unnecessarily on if light, but ultimately programmable so no on all night long when I don’t want it to be. I don’t want an internal switch with a photocell nor do I want a basic delay timer.

I know my answer is probably replace the current double switch with a single normal manual single switch and an additional single programmable switch, but that is my last non-preferred option once I have exhausted my search for my ideal product (the double programmable switch).

An alternative solution might be a programmable external photo cell. However I have only found ones that offer a delay facility – gets dusk, photocell switches light on, delay timer switches it off after 5 hours when I am tucked up in bed – however this would fail to switch the light back on at dawn. A fully programmable external photocell would be nice to find.

TIA!

 

[BTB 500]

I just use 'dusk-to-dawn' low-energy bubs (built-in photocells) in our 4 outside lights, and manually switch off/on to over-ride if necessary.

 

[GrahamC230K]

I just use 'dusk-to-dawn' low-energy bubs (built-in photocells) in our 4 outside lights, and manually switch off/on to over-ride if necessary.

Quite, it's a low energy consumption setup, but for even less energy consumption and a security aspect, I want the programmable control opposed to being dependent on manual operation, which I can't do asleep or away from home.

 

[verytalldave]

This might be OK................

http://www.timeguard.com/product/ho...hes/programmable-security-light-switch-double

 

[GrahamC230K]

This might be OK................

http://www.timeguard.com/product/ho...hes/programmable-security-light-switch-double

Thanks....but. That's the only double switch I have found, but sadly is not really programmable, but operates a light sensor on the device iteself combined with a basic timer function. I don't understand the design of these units with a internal light sensor - whether it is light or not in my entrance hall (where the switch is) is of no relevance to if it is dark or not outside!

 

[verytalldave]

Not ideal, but it might solve your problem.................

http://www.wiltsgrove.co.uk/sub-category.php?ID=5000&CID=0010&PID=RANGER-3

Use in conjunction with a normal double light switch.

QVS also sell them.........

http://www.qvsdirect.com/Ranger-3-Programmable-Timer-Module-pr-19999.html

 

[GrahamC230K]

Excellent! We could be cooking!

But you guessed it, my switch is on a narrow piece of wall in between two corners and no room for that on the right. Technically doing just what I want though, spot on. I have found other literature that says this can be mounted left or right of the switch, so I will have to wait till I get home to guage if there is room on the left. I wouldn't get another switch in to the left, but this is a bit narrower, so fingers crossed it might squeeze in. Could depend on if the timer part is surface mounted, which I guess it is. In which case it could go right up to an external corner. Not overly confident, but there is a chance it's squeeze in. Even if it won't fit, I am tempted to get one and see how inventive I can be.

Checking suppliers now.

 

[verytalldave]

Again, not ideal, but it could be fitted either above or below the switch.
You would of course have to also rotate the switch accordingly and maybe the surface switch box depending whether its got 2 or 4 mounting lugs.........
Also depends whether you can live with this quirky arrangement.

Be aware that you may need to buy longer mounting screws whatever way you might choose to fit this unit (unless it comes complete with a couple of longer screws).

FULL fitting instructions here............
http://technical.philex.com/downloads/electrical/65100R-65101R_65002R_ranger.pdf

 

[GrahamC230K]

I am hoping it will fit to the left of the switch. Fingers crossed.

I've emailed the manufacturer for a list of suppliers. There are loads of wholesalers locally, hopefully one may be a stockist.

I can't find it in Screw Fix (would have been ideal), but you mention QVS like they are a known quantity? If so I'll order from there.

Thanks again

Graham

 

[verytalldave]

Just looked up Screwfix and it appears they dont stock it anymore. Sorry.
QVS are pretty much nationwide. I have a couple near me.
Just Google "QVSdirect" to find your nearest store.



Edit...........It appears that they only have stores in and around South London.
....however they do mail order.

But I would expect somebody would sell it locally to you

Dont quote me on this............
But according to another website, the timer unit size is 80mm(H) x 60mm(W) x 30mm(D).
Which would make the timer part 60mm wide - which is 20mm narrower than a normal switch (which is about 80mm square).
But as I say, dont take that as gospel.

So providing you have 60-65mm free at the side, it SHOULD fit.

 

[GrahamC230K]

Right it looks to me like it is going to fit, just. So I have one on order.

Thanks Dave, you met the MBC challenge!