Why Use C-Bus
There are many reasons to use C-Bus:
It is a highly robust and reliable control system, with a low cost per node.
A wide range of tools is available, allowing third party companies to interface with both PC based and embedded systems.
A single C-Bus cable connection can control many devices.
C-Bus offers the ultimate flexibility in switching and control.
Functions can be changed, added, removed, moved, reprogrammed, at any position on the network, at any time – without any cumbersome hard-wiring.
C-Bus is simple to install and commission.
C-Bus can control any type of load, digital and analogue.
Brief Description
C-Bus is a microprocessor-based control and management system for buildings and homes. It is used to control lighting and other electrical services such as pumps, audiovisual devices, motors, etc. Whether it’s simple ON/OFF control of a lighting circuit, or variable (analogue) type control, such as electronic dimmable fluorescent ballasts, C-Bus can be used to easily control virtually any type of electrical load.
To ensure fast and reliable operation, each C-Bus device has its own in-built microprocessor and “intelligence”, allowing units to be individually addressed and programmed.
No point to point wiring is required. All input and output units are looped together with Cat-5 UTP cable. Units do not need to be wired in any particular order. C-Bus input units can be programmed to perform various functions such as timing, dimming on/off and other functions. This programming can be changed as often as needed. An input can control many outputs, providing simple load bank control. An output can be controlled by many inputs, providing multi-point control (including dimming) without complex wiring. The program that specifies which inputs control and which outputs can be changed as often as needed, to match an installation’s changing needs.
A typical very simplified C-Bus network looks like this.
Starting Out
The C-Bus system is wired using Cat-5 UTP cable. The standard C-Bus cable has a pink mains rated sheath and consists of four colour-coded twisted pairs.
Input units (wall switches) are typically located in a position convenient for the people who will operate them or the area they are required to operate in (such as PIRs in a stairway or cloakroom).
Installations using AV equipment can locate it out of sight if preferred.
It is important to choose a suitable location to mount a C-Bus unit.
DIN Rail output units are typically installed inside a power distribution board or cabinet which in a large building will usually be a plant room but for smaller homes, maybe a cupboard, under stairs or a garage.
Some important factors to consider:
Most C-Bus units are rated to operate at an ambient temperature of up to 45 °C. Avoid mounting in places that may become hot such as ceiling cavities or in direct sunlight.
Choose a location that will not become wet or is subject to extreme humidity.
Ensure units are mounted at a suitable height for the end user.
Make sure the installation complies with all mounting instructions and electrical regulations.
Always bear in mind the following:
Each C-Bus network can be a maximum of 1000M.
Each C-bus network can have either a maximum of 100 devices or 2A load.
Up to 255 networks can be joined together using Network Bridges.
Clipsal -C-Bus Lighting Control - SE9540
eDLT Installer Panorama- SE9937
For further information on how to include C-Bus into your building project please call us on 02084419788 or Schneider Electric on 0800 60 88 608.
To learn more about CBus visit our About page or our diagram and schematics page.
