The RELAY function, sometimes referred to as the ‘switch’ function, is often considered as the most basic PROSOFT function. But, if you are a novice with PROSOFT, there needs to be a bit more explanation because the RELAY function has more to offer than meets the eye at first glance.
What is the RELAY function?
First of all, a PROSOFT ‘function’ defines the relation between a system input and a corresponding output. t. Typically, an 'input' encompasses various options, such as push buttons, buttons found on TELETASK touch panels (for example the AURUS touch panel), motion sensor contacts, door contacts, and more.
Now, let's delve into the RELAY function. In this scenario, the input button is linked through a ‘relay’ function to a ‘relay’ output (contact), typically utilized for controlling the ON/OFF operation of a lighting circuit. When the button is pressed, the output relay is engaged, resulting in the closure of the output contact, thereby supplying power to an LED light.
Figure: An input triggers the ‘relay’ function in the central unit and this toggles the output contact (on/off).
The RELAY function boasts several key features:
- Ubiquitous Usage: it stands out as perhaps the most frequently employed PROSOFT FUNCTION.
- Versatile Control: its primary role is to manage the contacts of an output relay interface, including the TDS13504, TDS13510, TDS13512 models, or the 16 internal relays found within a DOMUS central unit.
De RELAY function in action
Some fundamental applications of the RELAY function include:
- Lightinh control : controlling the on/off function of lights both indoors and outdoors.
- Wall Socket Control: managing the on/off operation of various devices plugged into wall sockets such as uplighters, TVs, audio systems, convector heaters, kitchen appliances, washing machines, and other white goods like coffee machines.
- Fan Control: regulating the on/off operation of simple fans with single-speed settings.
Example 1: safety measures
The RELAY or switch function serves not only as a practical means of on/off control but also frequently integrates additional safety features. As a result, it may not always be directly associated with a push button, but rather incorporated within a mood. For instance, consider the scenario where the coffee machine needs to be switched off when the kitchen is vacant, or when the parents retire to bed, or when the house is unoccupied (e.g., during work hours, weekends, or extended vacations). In such cases, security and energy-saving measures are typically implemented through more intricate functions like a Local Mood, a Timed Local Mood, a Timed function, a conditional function, or similar mechanisms.
Example 2: timesoft clock action
A RELAY function is also frequently integrated into a TIMESOFT clock action. For instance, you might activate the garden lights during weekends when the outdoor light intensity falls below 15 Lux and the time is between 5 and 11 pm. This requires a combination of a light sensor flag and a clock-based flag, which are checked within a conditional function called by a process function. Thus, a RELAY function can be a component of more intricate logic conditions.
Example 3: Local Mood
Lastly, you can leverage the RELAY or switch function within a Local Mood when you need to set multiple relays and/or dimmers to specific statuses by simply clicking a button or closing an input contact. For instance, this is handy when leaving the breakfast room where you have various devices to manage. Typically, these devices include wall sockets, lights, curtain/shade motors, HVAC systems, and audio functions. It's worth noting that in a General Mood function, on/off control can be directly executed without the need for the switch function.
Remark: in a General Mood function, on/off control can be directly done without the switch function.
Unique features of the RELAY function
We want to discuss a few more specials of the RELAY function configuration in PROSOFT
1. Non-toggle control of a RELAY function
Besides the default toggle on/off behavior of RELAY functions, PROSOFT allows you to define the functionality to be either ON or OFF. This means that when a button is pressed, the relay contact will always open or close, and it remains in that state even if clicked again. In essence, with an ‘ON’ definition, you can only activate the connected light or wall socket. Although such functionalities are rarely needed, they are the result of over forty years of TELETASK experience, ensuring your system can handle any requirement.
2. Edge triggering in a RELAY function
A RELAY function can be configured to work on an edge-triggered basis. This means that it toggles the output only when a button or input contact transition occurs. Once the transition is complete, the RELAY function stops to affect the output.
Similar to leading-edge activation, you can also set the function to deactivate the connected output on the trailing edge of an input transition. Additionally, you can combine both settings. This feature is particularly useful when controlling a light circuit with an old-fashioned bi-stable switch instead of a bell push button. While it's generally not recommended to use bi-stable switches on an input, if your customer has a historically unique piece they want to utilize, they can do so.
Limitations of the RELAY function
The RELAY function does not handle analog output on/off control; instead, this task is managed by the DIMMER function. While both functions offer ON/OFF functionality, the DIMMER function is specifically designed for dimmable outputs. Unlike the RELAY function, the DIMMER function allows for dimming control, enabling variation between 0 and 100%.
Additionally, certain simple contact controls should not be managed with the RELAY function, especially when time-limited actions are required. For instance, switching outputs with a time delay is best achieved using the 'TIMED' function or 'TIMED LOCAL MOOD'.
For example, consider an output contact for a door opener that needs to be closed for only a few seconds before automatically opening again. In such cases, it's advisable to utilize the TIMED function instead of the RELAY function.
Conclusion
In summary, while the RELAY function is commonly employed to control an output relay contact via a button or touch panel, there are numerous other functions to explore for managing more intricate on/off controls.
If you need all details about PROSOFT functions, you can search for it in the Technical Support system on our website www.teletask.be/professional.
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