User: ultramegabob, Location: Indiana
Asked on: Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at 8:24 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:28 am EDT
Question: I installed a dimming control panel for a school auditorium recently, the equipment was supplied by another contractor, I got a call today of a complaint of the system making a humming noise when dimming a certain levels. All I did was extend existing circuits, mount the panel on the wall, and make terminations on the neutral buss and the terminals for the dimming modules. They are asking me to look at it because it will take over a week before the dimming system people can look at it, and they want to rule out any other possible issues. Any thoughts?
Possible Causes
1. Loose Connections
Check all electrical connections, including the neutral buss and dimming module terminals, for any loose or improperly tightened connections. Use a torque wrench or screwdriver to tighten connections to the manufacturer's specifications.
2. Grounding Issue
Verify that the system is properly grounded. Check the ground connection on the panel and any other devices connected to it. Ensure the ground wire is securely terminated and of sufficient size.
3. Harmonic Distortion
Dimming systems can introduce harmonic distortion into the electrical system, especially at lower dimming levels. Check if the system is equipped with a harmonic filter or corrective measures to mitigate harmonic distortion.
4. Incorrect Fixture Wiring
Ensure that all lighting fixtures connected to the dimming system are wired correctly. Check for any reversed connections or incorrect wire sizes.
5. Faulty Dimming Module
It's less likely, but consider the possibility of a faulty dimming module. If possible, swap out the suspected module with a known good one and check if the issue persists.
6. Interference from Other Equipment
Check if any other equipment in the auditorium, such as audio amplifiers or HVAC systems, is causing electrical interference with the dimming system.
7. Temperature Issues
Dimming systems can generate heat, especially at higher loads. Ensure that the panel is properly ventilated and not overheating.
Troubleshooting Steps
1. Check Connections
Tighten all electrical connections and check for any loose or damaged wires.
2. Ground Verification
Check the ground connection and ensure it is secure and of sufficient size.
3. Harmonic Distortion
If possible, connect a harmonic analyzer to the system to measure harmonic distortion levels.
4. Fixture Wiring
Inspect all lighting fixtures and check for correct wiring.
5. Dimming Module Testing
If possible, swap suspected modules and check if the issue disappears.
6. Equipment Interference
Check for any other equipment that may be causing electrical interference and isolate it if necessary.
7. Temperature Monitoring
Monitor the panel temperature during dimming operations to ensure it does not overheat.
Additional Tips: Contact the manufacturer of the dimming system for technical support and recommendations. Document all troubleshooting steps and findings for the dimming system contractor when they arrive. If possible, take pictures or videos of the issue for further analysis. Flag for review