Helvar 942 interface for 0-10V devices

Helvar 942 is an interface for 0-10V devices manufactured by Helvar, designed to integrate switches, sensors, timers and other control devices into a DALI Imagine lighting management system. Built in PVC with a compact footprint of 90 × 70 × 58 mm, it occupies 4 DIN modules and is compatible with input voltages from 100-240 V across EU, AUD, USA, UK and JAP standards. The degree of protection is IP20.

The device features 8 inputs to which normally open buttons or switches can be connected to send DALI commands to the Imagine system. Inputs 1 to 4 can be configured as 0-10 VDC analogue inputs, enabling the connection of light sensors or other external transducers. Through these inputs it is possible to recall lighting scenes or interact with the Scheduler function of the Imagine system. A status LED provides real-time information on the operating mode — normal operation, initialisation, selection or contact closing — while a selection button facilitates local configuration. The device is programmable via the IMAGINE Workshop software and can be used in combination with timers.

From an electrical standpoint, the nominal voltage on terminals 1-8 is 5 V at no load, dropping below 2 V with a closed contact, with overload protection of ±35 V and a maximum short-circuit current of 0.5 mA. The minimum contact closing time is 50 ms. For analogue inputs, the input impedance is 7.5 kilohms, with overvoltage protection of ±15 V, a Settling Time of 10 ms and a Response Time of 50 ms; analogue inputs must be powered by an external source (0-10 VDC). The module is powered directly by the DALI bus with a consumption of just 10 mA.

Operating conditions include an ambient temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C, a maximum relative humidity of 90% non-condensing, and a storage temperature between -10 °C and +70 °C. The unit weighs 110 g. The SC terminal of the module must be connected to ground to ensure correct operation; the maximum cable length between the input unit and buttons is 50 metres. In environments subject to significant electrical interference, the DALI cable must be shielded and grounded. The guaranteed isolation is 4 kV from the DALI network to the inputs. Compliance is ensured by EMC standards EN 50081 (emissions), EN 61547 (immunity) and safety standard EN 60950.