Setting the mechanical timer. Power on / off timer

I have been living in a country house   in the suburbs. As it is now fashionable to call it - a cottage community. Living in such a house - a lot of benefits. Clean air (relatively clean), a large living space, silence, its own parking, fireplace   , a site, a bath ... It is possible to enumerate for a long time. But there are disadvantages with which we have to put up. For example, to clean the snow in winter (although usually I regard it as charging in the fresh air), most to maintain and repair the house, care for flowers and lawns. All these difficulties are easily overcome, if there is a head on the shoulders, and the hands grow from the right place. But there is one more drawback inherent in our cottage community. This is a poor electricity supply. Not only is the tension jumping all the time (a powerful stabilizer installed at the entrance to the house decided this problem), so there are often power outages. Disconnect electricity almost monthly. Sometimes for a few minutes, and sometimes for several hours. And once they turned it off for two days (accident, damn it). And after this incident, I purchased a gasoline generator.
  I already wrote a review on hourmeter   (the counter of hours of operation of the generator). And now I bring to your attention the review of the timer.

Why do I need a timer switch? In order to switch on and off something at a given time. I needed it to control the generator. The matter is that the generator at me with automatics. As soon as the mains electricity disappears, it starts and switches the power of the entire lady to itself. 6 kW generator is enough for the whole house, I can even continue to use a microwave and an electric kettle.
  But the generator, as it turned out, has a small drawback. He's making a noise. In the afternoon it is not very noticeable and does not interfere. But when you turn off the electricity at night, you can hear it very well (especially in the summer when the windows are open). It would seem that at night I do not need much electricity. But every evening turn off and then turn on the generator every morning - an inconvenient task. Therefore, it was decided that the operating mode of the generator (automatic and manual) must be switched by timer.
  It would seem that it could be easier than buying a timer in Leroy for 220 rubles for 500 rubles and connecting through it a button for switching modes (the button is on - the generator starts automatically, the button is turned off - the generator does not start automatically). Here it is, the green button, on the generator control block:

But there is one snag. The fact is that if the power supply drops 220 volts, the timer will turn off (as it is normally open and is powered by 220 volts). And even if you transform it into a normally closed one, the situation will not save it. And it turns out that the food was gone - the timer went out.
  Therefore, it was necessary to find a timer that could work from 12 volts (the generator has a built-in battery, and it can be powered by a timer). And here I had to turn to the search for aliexpress, because in local stores I could not find such timers.

This is how the scheme works in a simplified form. In parallel to the button for switching the operation modes of the generator, I connect the timer and feed it from the generator battery. The battery on the generator does not sit down, the unit has an automatic charging device that monitors the discharge.
  Thus, the automatic mode button on the generator will always be in the off position, and the timer will switch the modes of operation of the generator. And if I want to start the generator bypassing the timer - there is nothing easier, I just click on the green button, and closed the contacts to bypass the timer.

Timers in Chinese - for every taste and color. With a power of 12, 24, 110 and 220 volts (for every taste). Find the easiest way, according to the words of Timer switch or timer relay. I needed a 12 volt timer, I ordered it (with a protective case and wires with terminals, for quick and easy installation).
Delivery is relatively fast, for 23 days
  Inside - everything as promised. Timer, protective box and wires.

The timer is built-in power (most likely a battery, and maybe a battery). It allows you to program a timer, but it will not trigger from the internal power supply, since 12 volts must be supplied to supply the relay.
  Raschlenenku - did not. It's a shame to break a new device.

Instruction - a normal printing house, good English (although everything is clear and without instructions). The only thing I had to check in the instructions is how to unlock the buttons on the timer (no button was pressed). It turns out that you have to press the C / R button four times in succession and the buttons start working. But when the buttons are inactive, they are blocked again (protection against accidental pressing).

From the timers (but in a separate box) there was a protective box.

How to set the on / off timer

The light on / off timer is a special device that turns on or off various electrical appliances through the time intervals set by the customer on a certain schedule. The off timer is divided into two types: industrial and household. The latter will be considered in this article. If desired, you can turn on the motion sensor in one device, or you can also use a photo relay. Will be more expensive of course, but very convenient!

Description and selection of timers

By purchasing the off timer, you need to know its greatest possible load. It is considered to be a way of folding the capacities planned for connection. To get Amps, watts are divided into 220 volts.

The second thing that is worth checking out when acquiring an off timer is the type of attachment. It is possible to the Din rail of the electrical shield. The timer also happens for the built-in installation inside the wall.

The third is the operating temperature range, which is important for installation in unheated areas.

Timer on / off. and their types

Off timer can be single-channel, two-channel and multi-channel. With the help of two-channel it is possible to adjust the operation of the main and additional lighting.

Timers come with a weekly or even an annual program. There are expensive models, which include a variety of programs, even taking into account the weekend.

An astronomical off timer is interesting, automatically correcting the on-time, taking into account changes in the duration and daylight.

Set the off timer

The mechanical shutdown timer is adjusted according to the inscriptions. To configure the electronic, there is a menu, like on the phone. When buying, you need to check that the menu is in Russian.

Timer on / off. and its installation

Today there are different types   the light off timer, with slight differences in the connection. Here we will consider the option of installing a two-channel timer. To the upper contacts voltage is applied to the home electrical network   220 volt. Usually on all models the power is supplied from above, and the organization of work is carried out with the help of lower contacts.

Thus, only the conductor with the phase is broken, and zero is sent directly to the electrical appliances. The phase from the electrical shield is fed to the middle contact. It will separately manage the side connections. In the case of single-chain control, one of the side contacts will be free.

Timers, domestic electronic   and mechanical
   Timers are developed and produced electronic and electromechanical, timers are operated from the electrical network.
   To turn on and turn off electrical appliances at the set time, a household timer is intended, in most cases it can be dispensed with, but to facilitate everyday tasks with the timer it is possible to significantly simplify the task and repetitive monophonic work can be safely delegated to an electronic device called a programmable household timer .
To the question: what time relay is suitable to turn off the light at exactly 21.00? The answer is only one: a programmable timer. Not only for this time, but you can turn off at 9 pm, and turn on in the morning, for example, at 8.00, etc. The device performs the following basic functions: Control of switching on / off by electrical devices using a household timer to control, for example, an electric heater.
   The household timer will save energy consumption, include heating in the apartment before arrival, provide comfortable conditions. At the same time, electricity will not be consumed until there is no home.
   Timer - controls light
   With the help of the timer it is possible to set when it is necessary to turn on the lighting in the yard, for example, with the onset of twilight from 19 hours and from 23 hours you can turn off the lights and turn on in the morning.
   Daily timer - will be served breakfast on schedule
   If you put the necessary ingredients into the steamer in the evening and set up a timer, then breakfast will be ready on time. Similarly, it is convenient to operate a kettle or coffee machine.
   The timer will wake you up. In the role of alarm clock
   Tired of waking up under a sharp alarm bell? The timer can switch on any device, for example, a music center or a lamp.
   Timer Control of household appliances according to the set schedule
   Many necessary electrical appliances - air ionizers, Chizhevsky chandelier - should be switched on periodically and for a certain time. A household timer will help you.
   Timer - take care To help the owners of aquariums
   Inhabitants of aquariums and terrariums need to turn on the light and air the compressor strictly at a certain time. Set the program to the timer and it will not fail.
   Timer - will scare off Simulation of finding people in the room, apartment (for the period of vacation, went to the country ...).
   Mechanical and electronic timers with the function of random inclusion will make the effect of presence in the house - the periodic inclusion and deenergizing of lights, the inclusion and deactivation of the sound file of a pet (for example, for the holiday period). Work at night
   Recently, it has become important to take into account various tariffs for electricity and water supply, depending on the time of day. In this case, electrical appliances, such as a washing machine or a dishwasher, should be used at night. With this task, the timer can do without much effort.

Timers, domestic, electronic and mechanical

Household timers electronic   and mechanical. At present, a household timer becomes an essential appliance in everyday life.
Timers, mechanical   and digital can be used for an internal monitoring device, adjustable for the time of shutdown, for example, TV, lighting, heating system, cooling system, as well as systems for the terrarium, humidifiers, compressors for aquariums, fans, dosing and CO2 systems, operation of automation, etc.

In the conditions of the energy crisis, the concept of a smart house, according to which all processes are controlled by electronics, is very relevant. With the help of devices working on the principle of time relays, it's easy to integrate its individual elements. How does the socket with the timer work and what types of products is represented by the modern market, we will consider in the article.

Automation of a single function or the whole process involves the use of sensors that respond to and transmit information about the parameters of operation to the central control mechanism. But the purchase of this expensive equipment can not afford many.

Partially solve the issue of automation and power management helps install off-grid sockets.

A socket with a timer according to the principle of operation is in many respects similar to a time relay: after the programmed time interval has expired, it closes /

The method of switching electrical contacts in such devices is based on the fact that when the relay is activated, the conductors are closed.

Depending on the type of the chosen model and its technical parameters, the smart socket is capable of configuring two types of programs:

1. Daily - when the process is limited to a time interval of 24 hours.
2. Weekly - provides the ability to program the start and finish of electrical appliances separately for each day of the week.

In any house there is a lot of equipment that can require deferred switching with the use of a timer for 220 V. Timer outlets help to solve several problems simultaneously, i.e. realize:

• Electrical equipment management.   Including washing machine, a pump, a boiler, a multivark ... Automatically turning on the sockets can also be used to turn on the light and heat the aquarium, chicken coop or shed with animals.
• Lighting control.   Automatic inclusion of music and light will help to form an impression and effect of the presence of home owners in the room, so that it will protect the dwelling from the intrusion of uninvited "guests".
• Automation of agricultural works. All processes that do not require direct human participation can be successfully automated, for example, ventilation of greenhouses, care of pets, watering of plants.

The use of smart outlets when installing a two-tariff electricity meter allows the article of monthly payments to be reduced by 30-40%. During the peak hours at the rates of the hours at which the price of a kilowatt of energy consumed is 1.5 times higher than the usual one, the consumer will simply be disconnected, while at the same time consuming electricity during the hours of the lowest-priced billing.

The socket-timer will help on personal plots automatically launch a security device, illuminate the greenhouse and illuminate the territory at night

Devices of this type are very relevant for lovers of late watching TV, which often fall asleep in front of the screen. After all, in addition to the fact that the switched-on TV will continuously consume electricity for several hours, it will also act as a generator of electromagnetic waves, which negatively affect the quality of sleep.

Classification of outlets-timers

In fact, turning off the sockets can not be regarded as such in the usual sense. Unlike fixed fixed blocks or overhead points, they are more like a block adapter. The device combines in itself and an outlet and a timer.

In the case of such a switch is provided an output power jack for the possibility of connecting the plug of the appliance, as well as the plug connector, which is necessary for feeding from a stationary point. On the case of devices there are two pins, similar to those that are in the electrical plug. Power supply to the output contacts in such devices is not always supplied.

Programmable switching points, working on the principle of relays, are designed to provide connection of both home appliances and professional equipment in 220 V

The main criterion for classifying devices is the range of regulation and the type of wire used. Depending on the method of setting the interval, the switched out sockets are divided into two types: mechanical and digital. Each type has its own significant advantages and inherent disadvantages.

Traditional mechanical devices

The models, produced half a century ago, worked due to the movement of the mechanism consisting of gears. They were driven by a spiral spring. The mechanical clock works on the same principle.

The models of the modern model are equipped with a pulsed slow-speed electric motor.

Thanks to a pulsed slow-speed electric motor, the current models are less noisy, but more dependent on an external power source

At the heart of the work of the devices is a traditional mechanical scheme for organizing control and monitoring the operation of the electrical point. It provides uninterrupted rotational motion of the disk, under the action of which the contacts are closed and opened.

Entering the program data of the equipment operation is set by means of separate key segments installed on the case of the timeline. Each of the keys is responsible for entrusting it to it in 15 or 30 minutes. For a day, the timer can be turned on at least every quarter of an hour. The number of cycles is limited by the discretion of the time, on average over the day it can reach 96 times.

The task of the timer is to organize the supply of electricity to the device when one of the segments is pressed. On sale there are samples in which to disconnect the device, the push buttons must be "heated", and there are those where the keys need to be lifted.

Most models of a mechanical sample are equipped with a circular timeline, the outer contour of which is a number of switching buttons

With the help of the position switch of the device it is possible to transfer from the programmable mode to the usual one. Usually it is installed from the side and equipped with a light indication device.

The principle of control of outlet-timers of the mechanical category determined their key drawback. They can not be programmed for more than 24 hours. This is due to the fact that the speed of rotation of a disc equipped with a contact directly depends on the gear ratio of the reducer, which reduces the number of revolutions of the impulse motor shaft in one minute.

Theoretically, there are ways to make the executive disk perform a turnover not in 24 hours but in 48 hours. For example: to do this, increase the number of gears, thereby complicating the reducer, or increase the diameter of the disc itself. But such modernization is reflected in the cumbersomeness of the device, and therefore practically not used in practice.

Another significant disadvantage of mechanical outlets equipped with a timer is the dependence of their actuating disk on the normal operation of an external power source.

If the frequency of the alternating current for any reason is different from the nominal value of 50 Hz, then the mechanism starts to "run ahead" or, on the contrary, "lag"

Although the dependence of the mechanical device on the mains voltage can be considered as a plus. Even with an emergency power failure, the mechanism will still execute the specified program, only realizes the task a little later.

Electronic digital models

Electronic models have a wider range of programming. The number of variations can reach more than a hundred.

Devices of the electronic type operate due to relay circuits, which are controlled by the built-in programmable microcontroller

Programming of the device is carried out by pressing the keys on the block, the number of which can be from six to ten. Control over the state of the device and its mode of operation is carried out through the display.

The executive motor in electronic models is independent of the external power source because it is equipped with a battery that serves as a backup analog. The battery is able to provide autonomous operation of the device for 100 or more hours.

In the future, in order to recharge such a battery, it is only necessary to connect the device to the mains without load for 12-14 hours.

In the situation of emergency power outage due to the inclusion of the battery, the switch does not notice the difference, in any case closing the contact in the specified period

Unlike mechanical samples, in which the switching interval is limited to 15 and 30 minutes, in electronic devices it is possible to program the inclusion with an accuracy of two seconds.

The main functions of the soft keys are:

• «Timer»   - for entering and confirming data for 12 and 24-hour operation of the device;
• Hour, minute   - time setting in conjunction with the "Timer" key;
• «Week»   - selection and setting for the week;
• «Rst / Rcl»   - performs cancellation and restoration of the program;
• "On / auto / off"   - choice of manual or automatic mode of operation.

Most models have a "Random" function. The function with a floating timer ahead allows you to switch on the socket load from two minutes to half an hour in random order, thereby simulating the presence of a person in the room.

The inclusion of electrical appliances connected through the device is not tied to a specific time, which can confuse "observers" who are trying to find out if there are people in the house.

On the market there are also models that support installation, as well as remembering the shutdown / on-off modes for individual days of the week. For example, the TM-22 model of Feron.

Eligibility Criteria

Practically in all products of this type, the load capacity is 16 A with a frequency of 50 Hz for an alternating current of 230 V. But some negligent manufacturers use poor-quality disconnect devices in their efforts to save money. In them, the conductors are not designed for a large starting current because they differ in small cross section.

Sockets-timers of questionable production should not be used to control one and a half kilowatt water heaters and other high-power consumers

When choosing a socket with a timer, you should focus on a number of parameters:

1. The maximum programming time or the range of time intervals.
2. Accuracy of the device clock and maximum time limit for switching operations.
3. The discrete setting of the switching time (the parameter can be from two seconds to half an hour).
4. Load capacity of the device (which maximum permissible switching currents).
5. Maximum number of switching programming per day.

All specifications   registered in the passport to the product. Please note that the active and reactive load of the equipment connected through the switch must not exceed the values ​​indicated by the manufacturer in the documentation attached to the outlet. Example: when the heating device is turned on with a power of 5 kW, the current will be approximately 25 A, which would be fatal for a 16 amp socket.

Each of these outlets is equipped with parameters that provide the necessary level of protection. On sale there are models equipped with a dust and moisture repellent body, equipped with protective covers and curtains.

When choosing a model, pay attention to the number and duration of the on / off intervals they are calculated

When planning to use outdoor switches, it is worth choosing products with a waterproof enclosure, the IP parameter of which is 44, 54 or 65. Guided by the principle - the higher the IP the better protection. Due to the thermal and moisture-resistant coating of housings, such devices are capable of operating in the temperature range from -10 to + 40 ° C.

Choosing a socket for a home where there are small curious household members, it is worth considering the option of purchasing a device equipped with the function "protection from children". Devices of this type are equipped with special valves, which prevent direct contact of foreign objects with electrical contacts.

If you focus on manufacturers, then the Russian market is most popular products of leading brands: Legrand, ABB, Berker, Wessen, Schneider Electric.

Of the more budget models, it is worth considering the products of the trade marks "Feron Company" and "Expert", which are in no way inferior to European producers in quality

The price range of automatically disconnected outlets is wide. The cost of mechanical models starts from the mark of 250 rubles and above. Digital automatic outlets-timers will cost from 500 rubles and above.

Features of the installation of switch-off sockets

To program a mechanical outlet you need to perform a number of manipulations:

1. By rotating the wheel, set the current time.
2. Orienting on the dial, with the help of segments set the set time to turn on the device.
3. Put the device in motion and connect it to the power supply, so that it starts to carry out the task assigned to it.

The principle of installation of a mechanical outlet with a timer for disconnection is identical.

The process of programming a socket with an electronic timer is more complicated.

Before using the device, it is necessary to study the instruction to it in detail, because the identical switches can be very different in the way they are programmed

The programming of the device is performed in this order.

1. The device is connected to the mains so that the built-in battery is recharged. The charging time depends on the manufacturer. It is indicated in the passport.
2. Activate the inclusion and expose the current time and day of the week, as well as the way they are displayed. If necessary, clear the device memory using the "Master Clear" function.
3. With the help of the 24/7 programming system, a timer is set. When setting the on and off times, you can put it every day or any other combination.
4. To finish setting the mode, press the "Time" key again and go to the display with the current time.
5. Plug the socket into the mains and connect the load to it.

When setting up, you need to make sure that the specified programs are not overlapping each other. Otherwise, if you set two mutually exclusive settings, the priority will be the one that corresponds to the "Off" option above the "On" setting.

So, for example, by setting the first unit to turn on the outlet for the period from 12 to 22 hours, and in the second on the same day, but from 15 to 19 hours, the timer will turn on in 12 days and turn off at 19 pm, that according to the program of the second block he must work until 22:00.

In general, the setting automatic outlets   does not cause any special difficulties. For a more correct operation of the devices, one should only remember to switch the clock in them to the winter and summer operation mode.

Video material about clever rosettes

A clip about the principles of the action of a daily mechanical outlet equipped with a timer:

Video review of popular models:

An automatic socket with a timer is an inexpensive and at the same time an effective variant of automation of power supply modes for private housing. The purchase of a digital device is justified when you really need to set up complex algorithms and automatically perform a weekly program. When performing the same schedule daily, you should not overpay, limiting installation mechanical device   with a daily electromechanical clock.

Timers or time relays are devices that automatically control the turning on and off of light, electrical appliances and equipment designed to support life in, audio-video equipment, heating appliances and much more.

Types of light on and off timers

All timers are divided into mechanical and electronic (digital). Mechanical are pretty primitive and will suit you if the on / off accuracy can fluctuate within 10-20 minutes. But if you need a clear program for each day with high accuracy, then you need an electronic timer.

How does the automatic light timer work?

In order to connect the time timer, you do not need to be a highly qualified specialist. All you need is just to plug in the appliance and ask him the schedule.

This device will be a great help to you. For example, a timer for light will help create the effect of the presence of hosts in the house, including turning off the light at a given time. So you do not need to worry about uninvited guests while on a long trip.

Also, the light off timer can be used if you or your family members have a habit of often leaving light in the hallway or other rooms in the house turned on, permanently leaving their homes. To save your spending on electricity, use this simple device. It is an energy-saving switch that turns off the light after 5 minutes after turning on. It is extremely convenient for use in rooms where you pass with occupied hands (staircase, hallway, staircase), a good timer in both the garage and the basement. After you leave, the light will turn off automatically.

The light-on timer is useful for you if you go home in the dark and want to see a bright light in the courtyard or on the landing, but you do not want it to burn all day long. Managing the timer is very simple - set the right time, and it will turn on the lighting for you at the given moment.

Light switches with a timer are another option for controlling the light in the house. It is a button with an indicator, for example, in the form of an hourglass, which shows how much time is left until the moment when the light turns off. This circuit breaker   great for summer residents, who would certainly be upset when they saw the light on after a month's absence.