Crestron Adds Wireless For Step-Up Installs
By Joseph Palenchar -- TWICE, 7/25/2005
ROCKLEIGH, N.J. — The first dimmer switch incorporating Crestron's infinNET wireless mesh-network technology uses 2.4GHz wireless to eliminate the need to pull control wires through walls.
The technology is suitable for retrofit applications or in areas with solid walls.
The wireless technology in the CLW-DIM1RF dimmer can also be used to control other home subsystems, such as HVAC and A/V systems. When integrated with a Crestron 2-Series home-control system, the CLW-DIM1RF can be controlled from touch panels, in-wall keypads, wireless remotes and computers. Likewise, the dimmer switch can be programmed to control such functions as volume or temperature.
The dimmer features a single rocker button, a slide switch and an LED indicator. The slide switch selects between preset, adjust and off modes. In preset mode, users access three lighting-level presets by tapping the button. The adjust mode is used to store presets. The off mode disables the dimmer, disconnecting power so users can change light bulbs.
The CLW-DIM1RF fits into a standard single-gang J box. Each infinNET device is automatically detected and located by the network once installed.
One wireless gateway is required, and all dimmers assigned to that gateway act as repeaters.
To date, Crestron's only other wireless products have been 802.11b and 802.11g touch panels and a one-way RF handheld remote.
