Smart time switches
Optim-Elec offers you four major brands of modular time switches: FINDER, THEBEN, SCHNEIDER and LETTEL.
These four…
Modular timer switches, also known as programmable clocks or time switches, are components of electrical systems used to regulate the duration of electrical power supply to an outlet or circuit. They allow for the automatic deactivation of electrical equipment through programming.
What is a modular timer switch used for?
A modular timer switch is an electronic device used to control and program the timing of various systems and devices. Its main purpose is to manage and schedule activities according to predefined time intervals. It helps you manage energy consumption by avoiding waste and simplifies daily routines.
Programmable clocks are widely used in industrial, commercial, and residential environments to automate certain tasks, optimize resources, and provide precise timing.
What are the different types of modular timer switches?
There are different types:
- Digital modular timer switches
- Analog modular timer switches
- Astronomical modular timer switches
What are the advantages of a modular timer switch?
The main advantage of a modular timer switch is reducing energy consumption by avoiding unnecessary lighting.
How does a modular timer switch work?
It works by allowing the programming of a timer to power an electrical device. This module is called "modular" because it is designed to be installed on a DIN rail. With this programmable timer, the clock can turn an electrical device on or off according to a predefined time range, automatically cutting or activating the power after a set time (e.g., 2 minutes, 15 minutes, 2 days, 1 week, etc.).
They offer two main functionalities:
- Lighting Timers: Programmable boxes that control the duration of electrical power supply, particularly for lighting. These devices are commonly installed in places such as stairwells, bicycle rooms, waste rooms, and other passage areas where people do not stay for long.
- Appliance Timers: Used to schedule the turning on and off of auxiliary heating, cutting off an internet box during the night, etc. These smart switches can also be used to activate household appliances (washing machines, dishwashers, water heater clocks) during off-peak periods.
What can a modular timer switch be coupled with?
An electrical timer can also be coupled with a motion detector, often placed near business entrances or in garage driveways.
How to install a modular timer switch?
They are generally designed to be mounted on DIN rails, simplifying installation. Programming can be done in two ways depending on the model: via adjustment screws or buttons. Depending on the type of device, they can be programmed in 15-minute intervals for electromechanical models or to the minute for digital versions. Some models allow for weekly rather than daily programming. The former simply plug into a wall socket and are economical, making them perfect for domestic use. More professional models, similar to timers, are generally mounted on DIN rails.
For more information, read our blog article > How to choose your modular timer switch?
The Optim-Elec Offering: FINDER, THEBEN, SCHNEIDER, and LETTEL
Optim-Elec offers four major brands of modular timer switches:
The FINDER Modular Timer Switch Range
The complete range of intelligent FINDER time switches with NFC technology for optimized programming and management of light on/off times, based on time and/or geographic location, is available in 6 models.
The THEBEN Timer Switch Range
THEBEN programmable digital clocks, with weekly, annual, or astro programs, or analog with daily, weekly, or 60-minute programs.
The LETTEL Timer Switch Range
The CTS2 range by LETTEL, a manufacturer of electrical equipment dedicated to the measurement and control of electrical circuits, offers modular timer switches, daily or weekly time switches, 1 or 2 changeover contacts, combining performance with ease of installation and use.