RGBW Controller Wiring help

[andyp 6]

Does anyone know how I can wire  three switches to manage my RGBW Controller. I've got RGBW Strips in the recess in the bedroom ceiling and want to be able to turn them on and off from either side of the bed and the bedroom door.  All the wiring diagrams I've been able to find only show 2 switches. Is it possible or do I need a plan B.

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[wpeeters 30]

Actually, the wiring diagram is showing 4 switches. Notice the 'IN1', 'IN2', ..3 and 4? Each IN is the input for 1 switch.

[andyp 6]

Thanks wpeeters . Not sure why my electrician didn't know that - think I need to look for a better one

[petergebruers 1,268]

Actually, the manual says:

 

"Fibaro RGBW Controller has 4 controllable inputs I1-I4, configured by default to work with push buttons. Each input controls designated channel, i.e.:
- I1 controls R channel. - I2 controls G channel. - I3 controls B channel. - I4 controls W channel."

 

So, you'r using a RGBW strip and you'll need 4 momentary switches if you want to dim and select color. But nobody stops you to use e.g. three halogen lamps instead.

 

It is possible to put a second momentary switch in parallel with some limitations to wire length. To be tested. But that might give you what you asked in your original post.

 

There are several alternatives I'd research, because I'm personally not very fond of that kind of manual control. It has been mentioned a few times, but I don't think it is a popular solution. Lots of wires, lots of switches.

 

Here are some ideas of the top of my head:

 

• I use a Aeon MiniMote. It does not give you infinite dimming possibilities, but clicking cycles through 6 preset RGBW values. To start, a ver low R only, to keep your brain asleep at night  Then some nice, warm orange and at last a 100% RGBW that blinds you  The other buttons on the minimote control other devices (another light, stereo, ...).
• I use a Fibaro Swipe to activate the dimmer in the same way.
• If you charge your phone next to the bed (I've got no opinion on that) - use the app?
• I've also hacked a Door/Window sensor into a remote control, but now I use a Fibaro button (smaller and not an ugly hack).

The general idea is I use scenes to control the dimmer (no direct controls).

[Rafael Suarez 1]

I all agree with you, the idea the home automatization is you may control the whole house without to make efforts or from the place where your are. maybe considers this as a possibility

[andyp 6]

Thanks for the input, my issue is the electrician has wired the RGBW after the switch so there is no permanent supply to the controller. In order to use the phone or any other module to change the colours I have to turn it on at one of the switches first and the way he has wired all three switches doesn't make any sense. I want to give him a diagram which I now have and say wire it like this.