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Programmable Time Controls
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Energy is wasted in commercial buildings by powering equipment when it isn’t needed. Programmable time controls are among the simplest, least expensive, and most effective energy management devices available. There are a wide range of time control devices, ranging from plug-in timers to multi-channel electronic time controls. HVAC systems, lighting circuits, hot water heaters, office equipment, battery re-chargers and other types of equipment can be effectively managed with time controls. Electronic programmable time controls offer many additional features and advantages over the mechanical time clocks that most people are familiar with including their ability to account for calendar changes, range of programming options, and the elimination of pins and knobs which often get lost. Features and benefits of common devices are briefly discussed below.
Simple time switches – Simple time switches include the familiar twist-dial timers and plug-in timers that are|
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One- to four-channel time controls – Most people are familiar with conventional mechanical timeclocks with their dials, pins and knobs that are used to schedule equipment operation. Programmable digital time controls provide the same basic function as mechanical timeclocks as well as a range of expanded features and functions. They have back-up battery power in case of a power outage, the ability to set multiple on/off operations, and include automatic adjustment for calendar changes such as daylight saving time, leap year, etc. Some include the ability to have different schedules for each day of the week and programming is simple.
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Multi-channel time controls – Multi-channel time controls provide the ability to control from four to 16 or more different loads. They typically include an expanded range of features found in one- to four-channel timeclocks, as well as additional features such as duty cycling, run-time data logging, self-diagnostics, and remote communications.
Special-purpose time controls – Special purpose timers include cycle timers for repetitive short-duration cycling of equipment, time-of-day water heater controls, and outdoor lighting time controls that combine time clock and photocontrol technologies.