Industry News

WattStopper announced the release of a time-saving Niagara AX driver module that streamlines integration when WattStopper Digital Lighting Management (DLM) controls are combined with Niagara controllers in high performance buildings. The driver automatically discovers all the DLM lighting controls on the BACnet network, and all the data points available for integration.

Originally developed for a WattStopper-specific JACE, the driver is compatible with other Niagara AX stations, and is now available for free download to integrators using a third party JACE.  In addition to discovery, the driver adds product-specific icons to the objects tree, and gives integrators easy access to an astronomic scheduling feature. The astronomic control option facilitates schedules based on sunrise and sunset, and eliminates the need to access the data via an external source. The driver operates over both BACnet IP and BACnet MS/TP networks.

Product Line Manager Jonathan Cartrette comments, "Through our long history of working with system integrators, WattStopper has developed core competencies with the technologies they employ, and adopted BACnet and the Niagara AX framework for delivering turn-key networked lighting control solutions. Learning to efficiently support device and point management prompted us to automate everything we could, and we're very excited to share this powerful capability with the Niagara community."

WattStopper products are based on open protocols to provide building owners and integrators with the greatest flexibility, and DLM controls provide an unprecedented number of points for integration. A wide variety of data is available from load state to daylighting control setpoints to lighting wattage for each room, and solutions include native BACnet and native Niagara integration. Niagara solutions provide access to the broadest selection of DLM points and control parameters.

Easy-to-install distributed DLM devices self-configure for energy code-compliant lighting control operation upon startup. Networking the controls enables advanced operation, including scheduling to modify occupancy sensor and load operation after hours to save more energy, and participation in demand response programs. Additional network capabilities include power monitoring of both lighting and plug load controllers, access to the occupancy sensor detection state for selected rooms, and remote configuration of parameters including sensitivity and time delay.

WattStopper (www.wattstopper.com), a Legrand group brand, is a leading manufacturer of energy efficient lighting controls for commercial and residential use. We help customers find convenient ways to save energy, meet green initiatives, and comply with energy codes with our comprehensive range of products, programs, and services. Legrand (www.legrandelectric.com ), located in Limoges, France, is the world specialist in products and systems for electrical installations and information networks, offering solutions for use in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.