One of our favourite features of the Rapix product range is the “30-Mech” (aka 30M) modular switch concept. These are common around Australia and in Asia, but installers in the UK and Europe are likely to be less familiar with them, although you may have encountered them without realising it as several wall switches from manufacturers like Clipsal/Schneider ship as 30M modules pre-installed in wall plates.
The advantage of modular switches is obvious: it gives far more flexibility. You want a push switch and a rotary switch on the same faceplate? Not an issue! How about a PIR and a switch in the same faceplate (ideal for absence detection in a small office)? No problem! Want to swap a push switch for a rotary switch at a later date, or replace a damaged switch module without replacing the whole switch plate? Go for it!
Rapix switches are compatible with any DALI-2 system – we would, of course, recommend Rapix zone controllers. Most switch modules come in two formats; a master – which connects to DALI and takes a DALI-2 short address – and a slave option which connects to the master instead of directly to DALI (sharing the DALI-2 short address). A master only supports a single slave, so a 4-Gang switch would comprise 2 masters and 2 slaves. All modules take power from the DALI line and therefore do not need additional power – they require only 4mA per master, whether or not a slave is attached.
The most common option is the classic push switch (master and slave variants available). These have a software configurable white light under the bezel, with orange, green and blue bezel options. Typically used for on/off toggle actions, they can also be used to dim lights up/down, recall scenes, start timers, etc. These buttons are also available in a retractive rocker “Diva” style (in master and slave options)
Complementing the push switches are rotary switches (master and slave), most often used for dim up/down, with push to toggle. Small and large dials are available, with coloured band options.
A combined PIR and light level sensor module is also offered, which can also act as a master for a slave push switch. In combination this allows for absence detection – where the switch turns lights on/off, and the PIR turns lights off if the room is vacated – from a single faceplate, avoiding the additional expense and inconvenience of a ceiling sensor, making it ideal for small offices and meeting rooms. It can also be ceiling mounted where a lower profile is needed.
1-Gang, 2-Gang, 3-Gang and 4-Gang standard UK face plates are available. Switch modules simply push into the aperture and are held securely in place by retaining clips. In the unlikely event that you need to subsequently remove them, this can be done with a small flat screwdriver.
As already mentioned, some manufacturers ship modular switches pre-installed in face plates and you likely never noticed; the retaining clips are robust and more than adequate for general use. But for an extra level of protection against excess force from the front we also offer an anti-vandal kit which adds a metal bar secured by screws. This may also be useful if the clips have been damaged when removing modules – unlikely to be an issue for most installers but there’s always an exception, and we have you covered if it’s you!