Distributor-timer - digital

Don't you also think that many electrical consumers don't have to be in operation all day? Would you like to save costs and conserve resources? This is possible with timers for the control cabinet. Find out here which functions digital distribution time switches can take on and which special features you should pay attention to when buying.

At eibabo® you will find the right digital distributor time switch for installation in the electrical distribution board. We carry a large selection of Astro timers, weekly timers and yearly timers. Manufacturers of high-quality devices include Hager, Finder, ABL Sursum, Theben, ABB, Stotz S&J, Legrand (BT), Grässlin, Eltako and Schneider Electric. In the following text we will go into the individual variants in more detail.

What are distribution timers?

A time switch for the junction box is an electronic or mechanical device that switches electrical consumers on a time-controlled basis. These can be switched on and off without having to flip the switch yourself. This can be useful in private households as well as in commercial companies and in the industrial sector. The purposes of the distributor time switches include, among other things, the automatic switching on and off of lighting systems or the control of fixed house installations such as heating, ventilation, lawn sprinklers and air conditioning units. This not only saves you time, but also money.

Notice

Distribution time switches are often offered in grid dimensions (pitch units). Depending on the equipment, such a device requires one to four modular widths in the control cabinet.


The advantages of a timer are therefore obvious: electricity costs can be reduced effectively through the targeted control of your electrical devices. At the same time, you have the option of making your home less attractive to burglars, for example by simulating your presence using optionally available random functions.

You can also get digital or analogue timers for the socket in another catalog from the eibabo® shop. Their function is comparable to that of the distributor time switches. However, the area of application extends to 'mobile' devices that are not permanently installed. These include Christmas lights, aquarium technology or decorative items such as fountains.

What functions do distribution timers offer?

A high-quality distributor time switch offers numerous functions and programs for the individual setting of the switching cycles. These include:

  • 60 min program / 24 h program
  • Weekly program / annual program
  • Automatic summer/winter time changeover
  • holiday program
  • impulse program
  • cycle program
  • astro program
  • random program
  • Permanent switching ON/OFF
  • expiration timer
  • hour meter

 

Source: eibabo®, Theben TR 644 top2 RC distribution time switchImage: Theben TR 644 top2 RC distribution time switch

What is the difference between each type of timer?

We often come across terms such as astro timers, weekly timers or yearly timers. With regard to a purchase decision, the question then arises as to whether there are significant differences between these models. The basic function is the same for all models. The differences lie in the detail and the setting options of the individual variants. The astro function of a timer adjusts the switching times daily to the seasonally changing length of the day. In other words: When the days get longer in spring, the device switches on a little later every evening and a little earlier every morning. This process is calculated electronically and does not require a brightness sensor, for example, which would otherwise have to give the command to switch the light on or off. With a weekly timer, you can set individual switching times for each day of the week. In contrast, the function of a very simple time switch is limited to setting switching cycles within 24 hours.

Already knew?

Modern timers have a powerful power reserve. In the event of a power failure, this ensures the function of the timer for up to 10 more years.


The annual time switch offers even more extensive functions. This means that different switching times can be provided for each calendar day and vacations and public holidays can be taken into account.

Do distribution timers require a separate power supply?

Digital timers always require energy to operate. As a rule, a distribution time switch is clamped onto the DIN rail of the control cabinet and supplied with mains voltage via an integrated power pack. Time switches that are exclusively battery operated are rare. These are typically analogue variants, which are used, for example, as 'door openers' in stables when there is no electricity.

Is a digital timer always better than an analogue model?

An analog timer works mechanically, a digital timer works electronically. Whether one or the other variant is more suitable for you depends on your requirements for the device. Mechanical timers usually have a higher-level switch with which you can switch the device off completely, switch it on permanently or switch it to switching mode. Switch buttons arranged in a circle represent the daily routine. There are usually 48 buttons and each button stands for half an hour. Activate or deactivate the corresponding switching period by pressing or pulling out. Compared to analog timers, digital timers offer significantly more setting options and functions. In contrast to mechanical timers, you can usually set several switching programs down to the minute over days or weeks. The distribution timer is operated using buttons and a display.

 


TIP:

If you want to control more than one device with the distribution timer, choose a model with the appropriate number of channels. This saves a lot of space in the control cabinet.


 

Times and switching programs are clearly shown on the display. In terms of accuracy and functionality, a digital time switch is clearly superior to the analogue version. However, it requires a certain learning phase to understand the technology and set switching programs. If you only need 'rough' and daily recurring switching processes, analogue time switches are still a good alternative. These are set up and ready to use in just a few seconds.

Can distributor time switches be programmed using an app or externally?

There are distributor time switches that have Bluetooth and can be configured using an app. This allows you to display and change the switching states via smartphone or tablet computer. The prerequisite is the coupling between the input devices and timers within a network. Another way of programming the switching times is to use manufacturer-specific software. You can transfer the switching information to a special memory card via the USB interface of your computer. The memory card can then be connected to the time switch on the construction site/in the switch cabinet and the switching data can be loaded into the switch and vice versa.

Doesn't a distribution timer consume more electricity than it saves?

If the focus is on switching a consumer (e.g. the lighting) on and off, a distribution time switch is of course useful. As a rule, active end devices consume significantly more power than a timer. The question asked above relates to switching off a device that would otherwise run in standby mode for hours.

To answer this question, a distinction must be made between an analogue and a digital time switch. An analogue model is less complex and usually has an output of less than 1 watt. With an electricity price of 40 cents per kilowatt hour, for example, the consumption costs are around 1 cent per day with 24 hours. With a digital timer, you have to assume around 2 watts and thus calculate electricity costs of 2 cents per day. In this calculation example, the investment costs for one or more time switches should also be taken into account.

You can now compare this with the standby power consumption of your devices. This essentially depends on the type, age and number of devices. Old devices with displays consume more power in standby than modern electronics with only one control LED. A mix of new and old devices in the household currently results in an average consumption of 1 to 2 watts per device. If you need a separate timer for each electrical device, using them to save standby power is therefore not economical. The situation is somewhat different with distribution time switches, which can switch several devices or machines with a high standby current at the same time. This may save you on standby electricity costs, although this is not the primary reason for using a timer in these cases either.

 


TIP:

Pay attention to the shortest switching time of the device if you want to switch short intervals. Some devices only switch every minute and only a few devices switch every second or even faster.


 

An example: If you have a terrarium with a sprinkler system, the nozzles should usually only spray for a few seconds. This is to maintain high humidity. Prolonged spraying may flood facility and animals.

 

eibabo - technology store

 

Catalogue content:


In this eibabo® catalogue Devices for distribution board- / surface mounting > Digital time switch for distribution board you will find items from the following product groups:

Item overview:

  • Astro timer
  • Built-in timer
  • Daily timer
  • Digital timer
  • Distribution timer
  • Energy efficient
  • Expansion module
  • Installation timer
  • Junction box
  • Lighting control
  • Location dependent
  • Position data
  • Power reserve
  • Program clock
  • Quartz timer
  • Series installation
  • Timer
  • Timer module
  • Timers
  • Universal timer
  • Weekly program
  • Weekly timer
  • Year time switch


from the following manufacturers:

Manufacturer overview catalogue Distributor-timer - digital:

  • ABB
  • Doepke
  • Eaton
  • Eltako
  • Finder
  • Hager
  • Hama
  • Legrand Bticino
  • Schneider Electric
  • Siemens
  • Theben


 
Don't you also think that many electrical consumers don't have to be in operation all day? Would you like to save costs and conserve resources? This is possible with timers for the control... read more »
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Digital distribution timer - information before you buy

Don't you also think that many electrical consumers don't have to be in operation all day? Would you like to save costs and conserve resources? This is possible with timers for the control cabinet. Find out here which functions digital distribution time switches can take on and which special features you should pay attention to when buying.

At eibabo® you will find the right digital distributor time switch for installation in the electrical distribution board. We carry a large selection of Astro timers, weekly timers and yearly timers. Manufacturers of high-quality devices include Hager, Finder, ABL Sursum, Theben, ABB, Stotz S&J, Legrand (BT), Grässlin, Eltako and Schneider Electric. In the following text we will go into the individual variants in more detail.

What are distribution timers?

A time switch for the junction box is an electronic or mechanical device that switches electrical consumers on a time-controlled basis. These can be switched on and off without having to flip the switch yourself. This can be useful in private households as well as in commercial companies and in the industrial sector. The purposes of the distributor time switches include, among other things, the automatic switching on and off of lighting systems or the control of fixed house installations such as heating, ventilation, lawn sprinklers and air conditioning units. This not only saves you time, but also money.

Notice

Distribution time switches are often offered in grid dimensions (pitch units). Depending on the equipment, such a device requires one to four modular widths in the control cabinet.


The advantages of a timer are therefore obvious: electricity costs can be reduced effectively through the targeted control of your electrical devices. At the same time, you have the option of making your home less attractive to burglars, for example by simulating your presence using optionally available random functions.

You can also get digital or analogue timers for the socket in another catalog from the eibabo® shop. Their function is comparable to that of the distributor time switches. However, the area of application extends to 'mobile' devices that are not permanently installed. These include Christmas lights, aquarium technology or decorative items such as fountains.

What functions do distribution timers offer?

A high-quality distributor time switch offers numerous functions and programs for the individual setting of the switching cycles. These include:

  • 60 min program / 24 h program
  • Weekly program / annual program
  • Automatic summer/winter time changeover
  • holiday program
  • impulse program
  • cycle program
  • astro program
  • random program
  • Permanent switching ON/OFF
  • expiration timer
  • hour meter

 

Source: eibabo®, Theben TR 644 top2 RC distribution time switchImage: Theben TR 644 top2 RC distribution time switch

What is the difference between each type of timer?

We often come across terms such as astro timers, weekly timers or yearly timers. With regard to a purchase decision, the question then arises as to whether there are significant differences between these models. The basic function is the same for all models. The differences lie in the detail and the setting options of the individual variants. The astro function of a timer adjusts the switching times daily to the seasonally changing length of the day. In other words: When the days get longer in spring, the device switches on a little later every evening and a little earlier every morning. This process is calculated electronically and does not require a brightness sensor, for example, which would otherwise have to give the command to switch the light on or off. With a weekly timer, you can set individual switching times for each day of the week. In contrast, the function of a very simple time switch is limited to setting switching cycles within 24 hours.

Already knew?

Modern timers have a powerful power reserve. In the event of a power failure, this ensures the function of the timer for up to 10 more years.


The annual time switch offers even more extensive functions. This means that different switching times can be provided for each calendar day and vacations and public holidays can be taken into account.

Do distribution timers require a separate power supply?

Digital timers always require energy to operate. As a rule, a distribution time switch is clamped onto the DIN rail of the control cabinet and supplied with mains voltage via an integrated power pack. Time switches that are exclusively battery operated are rare. These are typically analogue variants, which are used, for example, as 'door openers' in stables when there is no electricity.

Is a digital timer always better than an analogue model?

An analog timer works mechanically, a digital timer works electronically. Whether one or the other variant is more suitable for you depends on your requirements for the device. Mechanical timers usually have a higher-level switch with which you can switch the device off completely, switch it on permanently or switch it to switching mode. Switch buttons arranged in a circle represent the daily routine. There are usually 48 buttons and each button stands for half an hour. Activate or deactivate the corresponding switching period by pressing or pulling out. Compared to analog timers, digital timers offer significantly more setting options and functions. In contrast to mechanical timers, you can usually set several switching programs down to the minute over days or weeks. The distribution timer is operated using buttons and a display.

 


TIP:

If you want to control more than one device with the distribution timer, choose a model with the appropriate number of channels. This saves a lot of space in the control cabinet.


 

Times and switching programs are clearly shown on the display. In terms of accuracy and functionality, a digital time switch is clearly superior to the analogue version. However, it requires a certain learning phase to understand the technology and set switching programs. If you only need 'rough' and daily recurring switching processes, analogue time switches are still a good alternative. These are set up and ready to use in just a few seconds.

Can distributor time switches be programmed using an app or externally?

There are distributor time switches that have Bluetooth and can be configured using an app. This allows you to display and change the switching states via smartphone or tablet computer. The prerequisite is the coupling between the input devices and timers within a network. Another way of programming the switching times is to use manufacturer-specific software. You can transfer the switching information to a special memory card via the USB interface of your computer. The memory card can then be connected to the time switch on the construction site/in the switch cabinet and the switching data can be loaded into the switch and vice versa.

Doesn't a distribution timer consume more electricity than it saves?

If the focus is on switching a consumer (e.g. the lighting) on and off, a distribution time switch is of course useful. As a rule, active end devices consume significantly more power than a timer. The question asked above relates to switching off a device that would otherwise run in standby mode for hours.

To answer this question, a distinction must be made between an analogue and a digital time switch. An analogue model is less complex and usually has an output of less than 1 watt. With an electricity price of 40 cents per kilowatt hour, for example, the consumption costs are around 1 cent per day with 24 hours. With a digital timer, you have to assume around 2 watts and thus calculate electricity costs of 2 cents per day. In this calculation example, the investment costs for one or more time switches should also be taken into account.

You can now compare this with the standby power consumption of your devices. This essentially depends on the type, age and number of devices. Old devices with displays consume more power in standby than modern electronics with only one control LED. A mix of new and old devices in the household currently results in an average consumption of 1 to 2 watts per device. If you need a separate timer for each electrical device, using them to save standby power is therefore not economical. The situation is somewhat different with distribution time switches, which can switch several devices or machines with a high standby current at the same time. This may save you on standby electricity costs, although this is not the primary reason for using a timer in these cases either.

 


TIP:

Pay attention to the shortest switching time of the device if you want to switch short intervals. Some devices only switch every minute and only a few devices switch every second or even faster.


 

An example: If you have a terrarium with a sprinkler system, the nozzles should usually only spray for a few seconds. This is to maintain high humidity. Prolonged spraying may flood facility and animals.

 

eibabo - technology store

 

Catalogue content:


In this eibabo® catalogue Devices for distribution board- / surface mounting > Digital time switch for distribution board you will find items from the following product groups:

Item overview:

  • Astro timer
  • Built-in timer
  • Daily timer
  • Digital timer
  • Distribution timer
  • Energy efficient
  • Expansion module
  • Installation timer
  • Junction box
  • Lighting control
  • Location dependent
  • Position data
  • Power reserve
  • Program clock
  • Quartz timer
  • Series installation
  • Timer
  • Timer module
  • Timers
  • Universal timer
  • Weekly program
  • Weekly timer
  • Year time switch


from the following manufacturers:

Manufacturer overview catalogue Distributor-timer - digital:

  • ABB
  • Doepke
  • Eaton
  • Eltako
  • Finder
  • Hager
  • Hama
  • Legrand Bticino
  • Schneider Electric
  • Siemens
  • Theben
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