Connected Lighting Systems For A Brighter Future

Interoperability is the ability of computer systems and software to exchange and use data. Without it, what’s the point of investing in a digitized solution? In commercial applications, interoperability relates to how a connected lighting system works, not just by itself but also in tandem with other building systems, typically through application programming interfaces (APIs). Unfortunately, integrating legacy building systems with newer, more advanced lighting systems can be time-consuming and laden with technical issues. 

Connected lighting systems also have a higher upfront cost. It’s also important to consider the cost of programming and onboarding staff to manage and maintain connected lighting systems adequately. That said, some sources report payback of the original investment in as little as 18 months.

System technicians have seen instances where hackers have used smart bulbs to access home or office networks. System reliability can also be unpredictable due to high traffic, poor signal, or outdated firmware.

The environment also plays a role in the lifespan and dependability of connected lighting systems. Outdoor systems require specialized connectors and cables that can withstand the elements. Likewise, industrial systems must be impervious to dust, chemical exposure, high temperatures, and other factors specific to a factory or manufacturing environment. 

This is where a higher upfront cost pays off. Rather than piece together off-the-shelf solutions, working with a reputable cable and connector manufacturer allows technicians to design connected lighting solutions that are specific to an application and its environment. 

Electromagnetic interference from radio signals and other sources can cause electronic equipment to malfunction. Using shielded cable and custom cable assemblies can minimize the effects of EMI. 

Human-centric lighting systems work in conjunction with sensor technology and timers to control lighting in a way that mimics natural daylight. These systems contain tunable white luminaires and advanced management systems that adjust the color spectrum, intensity, and timing of light. The theory behind this type of lighting is that natural daylight drives our biological functions, including emotional health and well-being. Work environments that use human-centric lighting can improve the health and happiness of employees and occupants. 

Thanks to real-time data sharing, connected lighting systems can produce heat maps that illustrate the occupancy and volume of people in commercial properties. With a birdseye view over traffic trends and patterns, building managers can easily identify spaces that are under or over-utilized, reallocate resources or reroute traffic, and optimize space utilization, including limiting how unused space consumes unnecessary energy.

In hospitality, a hotel connected lighting system can indicate to staff when guests have checked out or left their rooms. With this information, staff can proactively manage cleaning services and streamline and improve the efficiency of room turnover. 

Global food demand is expected to increase by nearly 70% by 2050 – giving rise (out of sheer necessity) to a new era of agriculture. Insufficient land, droughts, and climate change continuously threaten food production. LED connected lighting systems are playing an integral role in the development of new farming practices that no longer rely on mother nature for crop output. These systems use photo-synthetically active radiation (characterized as a wavelength useful for horticulture) to increase the output of controlled environment farming. While researchers admit that indoor farming will never fully outpace traditional farming, it does add another layer of production impervious to current industry challenges.

For agriculture technology, check out iCONN’s i12 plastic connector series. The i12 series offers superior ingress protection from moisture and dust and larger wire gauges or bundles while keeping costs low and assemblies lightweight.

When you’ve booked a multi-million dollar performer, you can’t afford interference with audio or video signals. iCONN has worked closely with engineers who provide concert lighting and video solutions to avoid electromagnetic interference.