We collaborated with Media to deploy a next-generation smart office lighting control system built on PLC (Power Line Communication) technology. The solution uses the building’s existing electrical wiring to transmit control signals, eliminating the need for new communication cabling during renovation or expansion. This makes PLC an ideal choice for modern office buildings seeking a high-efficiency, low-disruption lighting upgrade.
The system integrates AI vision sensors, PLC dimming modules, PWM/0–10V drivers, and a central cloud management platform, enabling precise brightness control, real-time monitoring, occupancy-based automation, and energy optimization across all work zones.
Project Requirements
Media required a lighting system that could:
- Support dynamic and automated brightness control for different work areas
- Reduce installation effort and avoid extra communication wiring
- Provide office-friendly lighting scenes (meeting mode, working mode, presentation mode)
- Support centralized and mobile remote management
- Detect occupancy and daylight changes for energy savings
- Allow future scalability without modifying building infrastructure
Our PLC-based smart lighting system was designed to meet all of these objectives with high reliability and long-term stability.
Technical Solution Architecture
1. PLC Data Communication Backbone
The backbone of the solution is the PLC Concentrator, which injects communication signals into the power line. It manages:
- Device addressing
- Scheduling and scene distribution
- Real-time status reporting
- Fault detection and alarms
- Two-way communication with the cloud or local server
This allows the building to maintain a fully connected lighting network using the wiring already installed.
2. PLC Dimming Switches & Interface Modules
Each office area is equipped with:
- PLC Smart Dimmer Switches for manual override
- PLC Addressable Drivers for per-luminaire dimming
- 0–10V or PWM output modules for legacy LED fixtures
These modules provide smooth dimming (1–100%), scene execution, and fast response even during peak office hours.
3. AI Vision & Occupancy Sensors
To maximize efficiency and user comfort, the system integrates:
- AI Vision Sensors for detecting human presence, workspace usage patterns, and movement
- Ambient Light Sensors for detecting daylight levels
- Occupancy Sensors (PIR + Microwave) for real-time automation
These inputs drive intelligent behaviors such as:
- Auto-dimming in empty zones
- Brightness boost in collaboration areas
- Daylight harvesting near windows
- Scene transitions during meetings or presentations
4. Isolator Controllers for Safety & Signal Stability
Installed on each lighting circuit, the PLC Isolator Controllers ensure:
- Stable PLC signal quality
- Fault isolation for short circuits or overloads
- Safety protection for sensitive office electronics
- Better long-distance PLC communication
These components are especially important in mixed-load office environments with PCs, printers, HVAC systems, and chargers.
5. Cloud & Mobile Management Platform
The control system is connected to a cloud-based management platform providing:
- Multi-zone scheduling
- Real-time performance dashboards
- Power monitoring & reports
- Fault alarms (lamp failure, short circuit, communication issue)
- Mobile app remote control for supervisors
- OTA firmware updates
This enables Media to manage the entire office lighting from a single interface.
Key Features Delivered
✔ Zero Extra Wiring
PLC communication fully eliminates the need for additional data cables, greatly reducing installation time.
✔ Smart Office Lighting Scenes
- Working Mode
- Focus Mode
- Meeting Mode
- Presentation Mode
- Off-Hours Energy-Saving Mode
Scenes automatically apply based on schedules or sensor input.
✔ Real-time Monitoring & Fault Diagnosis
The system tracks each luminaire’s:
- Voltage
- Current
- Power consumption
- Communication status
- Dimming level
- Fault logs
Maintenance teams receive instant notifications for any abnormality.
✔ Up to 35–55% Energy Savings
Through:
- Occupancy-based dimming
- Daylight harvesting
- Scene optimization
- Scheduling and automatic shut-off
✔ Built for Office Comfort
The system ensures:
- Flicker-free dimming
- Comfortable brightness levels
- Even illumination
- A more productive work environment
Benefits for Media
1. High Efficiency
Automated dimming and scheduling reduce energy consumption significantly.
2. High Reliability
PLC ensures stable signal transmission, even in interference-heavy office environments.
3. User Comfort
AI-driven lighting improves workspace usability, focus, and productivity.
4. Simplified Installation
No new communication cables, no office downtime, minimal disruption.
5. Future Expandability
New lighting areas or fixtures can be added without modifying wiring infrastructure.
Conclusion
The Media Office Lighting Control Project demonstrates how PLC smart lighting technology can transform traditional office environments into intelligent, energy-efficient, and highly automated workspaces. With robust communication, AI-driven control, and strong scalability, the solution provides a sustainable and future-ready platform for modern office lighting management.