How to automate this LED driver + switch combo unit?
I just completed a kitchen remodel where among many other things I had undercabinet lighting installed. The contractors used an all in one driver + switch unit (takes 120V input, outputs 24V), which complicates my plans to be able to automate that lighting. My original plan was a separate switch + driver, such that I could replace the switch with a standard smart switch to be able to turn the driver on/off, but I can't do that with this combo unit.
I bought a Shelly 1 thinking I could use that on the 24V side of things, but a) there's not a heck of a lot of space in the box with this combo unit and its split design that tries to separate high and low voltage makes things more complicated, and b) I still want a physical switch for the lights, and I'm not sure I can do that with the Shelly sitting after the switch.
Am I SOL? Should I figure out how to rewire with a separate LED driver (hidden in the cabinets somewhere, but the cabinets go all the way to the ceiling so there's no option to hide it on top for example)? Or is there something I can do with this combo unit?
Posted May 26, 2021, 6:44 AM UTC
Hi, depending on what smart home technology you use Zigbee, z-wave, wifi will change what device you buy, but your bang on the money.
I previously had an on off switch for LED strip lighting with a built in non dimmable driver.
I replaced it with a Retractive switch (press switch not a rocker) this goes to a Shelly like device that has the ability to be connected to a switch.
Then disconnected the built in LED driver and replaced it with a really slim dimmable driver that just mounts under the cabinet.
I use Zigbee, this is the devices i used (1 gang and 2 gang) There's wifi and z-wave equivalents
Only issue, this setup requires Space in the switch box! 35-45mm
https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/230V-AIoT-Solution-Kit-2-Gang_1600165850466.html
https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/220V-CE-RoHS-Smart-Home-Automation_1600093940540.html
I've got plenty of options for the 120V side (I'm 100% Insteon for wired in switches), so not worried there. It sounds like replacing the combo unit with a separate driver is going to be the way to go. I assume you implemented dimming by varying the input to the driver?
I guess I can try adding this to the final project punch list, since I had originally requested a separate driver installation so that I could automate at the 120V switch. They didn't tell me they were going to use a combo box.
Yes to get more control or customizability the driver needs to be compatible with whatever switching or dimming method you use.
combo units might be perfect for the person fitting or the average consumer but not for us!