For Your Information ...
Lamp Buzz With Solid State Incandescent Dimmer s
APPLICATION
NOTE
#3
Overview
A solid-state dimmer is an electronic switch that
rapidly turns the current on and off 120 times per
second to produce the dimming effect. This rapid
switching can cause incandescent lamp filaments to
vibrate, resulting in a buzzing noise. Lamp buzz is
generally noisiest at mid-range (50%) dimming level.
Some lamps are noisier than others when dimmed,
depending on the physical characteristics of the lamp
filament. Lamps of higher wattage (100W and
above) tend to produce a louder buzz. Therefore,
use a lower wattage lamp whenever possible to
reduce lamp buzz.
Other factors that affect perceived noise level of lamp
buzz are:
• Pitch of lamp buzz
• Type of light fixture
• Ambient noise level of room
• Surrounding surfaces/finishes
• Relative proximity of light fixture to ears
• Individual sensitivity to noise
Recommendations
• Use lower wattage lamps (100W or less)
whenever possible
• Selecting another brand of lamp can sometimes
reduce lamp buzz
• Use a physically smaller lamp
• Upgrade to a specification grade dimmer
Lamp Debuzzing Coils (LDCs)
The most effective way to reduce lamp buzz is to
install a lamp debuzzing coil (LDC) into the lighting
circuit. When an LDC is wired in series with the
dimmer, it slows down the in-rush of current during
the rapid switching cycle of the dimmer. As the
current inrush is slowed down, the lamp filament
vibration and lamp buzz are reduced.
Lutron has two LDC models available to help reduce
lamp buzz. The type of LDC required depends on
the total wattage of the dimmer’s lighting load. Listed
below are the model numbers and their respective
capacities. Note: For loads under 600W, call the
toll-free
LDCs may be wired in series with the dimmer on its
line side or load side. Each dimmer requires its own
LDC.
Line Side Installation
Lutron Hotline:
Model Rated Capacity
LDC-10-TCP 600-1200W
LDC-16-TCP 1201-1920W
Hot
120V
60Hz
LDC
1-800-523-9466.
Worldwide Technical and Sales
Assistance
If you need assistance call the toll-free
Hotline:
(800) 523-9466 (U.S.A., Canada, and the Caribbean)
Other countries call (610) 282-3800
Need additional assistance? Call the Lutron Technical Assistance Hotline
Lutron
Neutral
Load Side Installation
Hot
120V
60Hz
Neutral
During normal operation, LDCs may make an audible
buzz and, therefore, should be mounted in an area
where the noise will not be objectionable (e.g., an
electrical closet, a basement, or above a drop
ceiling). The LDCs are UL listed and thermally
protected. For further information, see our Lamp
Debuzzing Coil specification sheet, P/N 360-212.
Lutron is a registered trademark of Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
7200 Suter Road
Coopersburg, PA 18036-1299 U.S.A.
Made and printed in U.S.A. 6/98 P/N 360-476 Rev. C
Load
LDC
Load
1-800-523-9466
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