Cumberland VLC-4 User manual

M 890-00510 rev.02 REV. 02
VLC-4
Light Dimmer
User’s manual

WARNINGS
The warranty can be void if this product is
used in a manner not specified by the manu-
facturer.
Every effort has been made to ensure that
this manual is complete, accurate and up-
to-date. The information contained in it is
however subject to change without notice
due to further developments.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION............................. 4
1.1. Precautions ................................... 4
1.2. Symbols of the Manual ................... 4
2. FEATURES .................................... 5
3. MOUNTING INSTRUCTIONS............ 6
3.1. Connection ................................... 6
4. USER INTERFACE .......................... 6
4.1. Location of the Controls ................. 6
4.2. How to Select & Modify the Param-
eters ............................................ 7
4.3. Meaning of the Status LEDs ............ 7
5. USER SETUP ................................. 7
5.1. Time & Date.................................. 7
5.2. Password...................................... 8
5.3. Installation Options ........................ 9
5.4. Version......................................... 9
6. LIGHT PROGRAMS ...................... 10
6.1. Principle of Operation ................... 10
6.2. Light Program Settings ................. 12
6.3. Light Cycle Settings ..................... 13
6.4. Light Peak Settings ...................... 13
6.5. Manual/Automatic Mode ............... 14
6.6. Current Conditions ....................... 15
6.7. Alarms........................................ 15
7. ANIMAL AGE .............................. 15
8. MEMORY CARD .......................... 16
9. INSTALLATION REPORT ............... 18

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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Precautions
WARNING: Read and save these in-
structions!
Safety may be jeopardized if the equipment
is used in a manner not specified by the
manufacturer. Carefully read and keep the
following instructions for future reference.
Although fuses at the input and outputs of
the controller protect its circuits in case of
an overload or over-voltage, we recommend
installing an additional protection device on
the controller’s supply circuit.
The room temperature where the controller
is located m u s t always remain be t wee n 32°F
and 104°F (0°C to 40°C). Indoor use only!
To avoid exposing the controller to harmful
gases or excessive humidity, it is preferable
to install it in a corridor.
If the equipment is used in a manner not
specified by the manufacturer, the protection
provided by the equipment may be impaired.
Do not spray water on the controller! In
order to clean the control, wipe it with a
damp cloth.
The controller should be opened and inspected
once a year for moisture. Proper care will ex-
tend the life of the control.
Before servicing or cleaning unit, switch
power off at service panel and lock the
switch disconnecting means to prevent
power from being switched accidentally.
When the service disconnecting means
cannot be locked, securely fasten a
prominent warning device, such as a
tag, to the service panel.
1.2. Symbols of the Manual
Warning. Read the following text
carefully; it contains important
information which, if ignored, may
cause the controller to operate
improperly.
High Voltage. Hazard of electrical
shock. Read the message and follow
the instructions carefully.
Pay attention. The following text
contains very useful information.
Both direct and alternating current
(AC/DC).
Direct current (DC).
Alternating current (AC).
Earth Ground Terminal
Primarily used for functional earth
terminals which are generally asso-
ciated with test and measurement
circuits. These terminals are not for
safety earthing purposes but provide
an earth reference point.
Fuse
For Customer Use: Enter below the serial
number located on the side of the alarm
system and keep this information for future
reference.
Model: VLC-4
Serial number:
Date installed:

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PROGRAM 6 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 7 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 8 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 9 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 10 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
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2. FEATURES
The VLC-4 is a light dimmer controller that
is used to regulate the light intensity in live-
stock buildings. It offers great flexibility in
the light intensity adjustment. Many options
are provided to assure the light intensity is
always adapted to the animals' needs as they
are growing.
MAIN FEATURES:
LCD display — An LCD display provides an
efficient interface for displaying, monitoring
and adjusting parameter values.
Pilot lights & LED display — pilot lights indi-
cating the state of outputs and a led display
showing the current light intensity allow the
user to monitor the operation of the system
without having to enter the building.
10 Light programs — the controller can use
up to 10 different light programs based on the
animal age. The light intensity thus always
suits the animals' requirements.
6 Sunrise/ sunset cycles — up to 6 cycles
can be enabled in each light program to
change the light intensity within the day. The
light intensity can gradually increase at the
beginning of a cycle and gradually decrease
at the end of a cycle to simulate a sunrise
and a sunset.
Light peaks — short and marked increases in
the light intensity can be added to stimulate
the animals. When enabled, the peaks are
performed regularly according to a user-
defined frequency.
Automatic / manual mode — the user can eas-
ily switch to a manual mode that permits to
adjust the light intensity to a specific value.
Password protection — a password feature
is used to restrict access to the controller
setup functions.
Backup battery — a backup battery allows
the unit to keep time and settings in case of
a power failure.
Overload and overvoltage protection — re-
settable fuses are provided at low-voltage
inputs and outputs of the controller to pro-
tect its circuitry in the case of an overload
or overvoltage.
Computer control — the controller can be
connected to a computer, thus making it
possible to centralize the management of
information and diversify control strategies.

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3. MOUNTING INSTRUC-
TIONS
Open the latch and open the cover. Remove
the black caps located on each of the four
mounting holes. Mount the enclosure on
the wall using four screws. Be sure the
electrical knockouts are at the bottom of
the enclosure in order to prevent water from
entering the controller. Insert the screws in
the mounting holes and tighten. Fasten the
four black caps provided with the controller
onto the four mounting holes. The enclosure
must be mounted in a location that will allow
the cover to be completely opened right up
against the wall.
3.1. Connection
To connect the controller, refer to the wiring
diagram enclosed with this user's manual.
Use the electrical knockouts provided at the
bottom of the enclosure. Do not make ad-
ditional holes in the enclosure, particularly
on the side of the enclosure when using a
computer communications module.
All wiring must be done by an autho-
rized electrician and must comply with
applicable codes, laws and regulations.
Be sure power is off before doing any
wiring to avoid electrical shocks and
equipment damage.
Alarm — There are two types of alarms on
the market. One type activates when cur-
rent is cut off at its input, whereas the other
activates when current is supplied at its
input. For an alarm of the first type, use the
NC termi n a l a s shown on the wiring diagram.
For an alarm of the second type, use the NO
terminal.
CL2/NNC NO L1
ALARM SUPPLY
115 / 230VAC
4. USER INTERFACE
4.1. Location of the Controls
LCD Display — The LCD screen gives the
current readings and displays the param-
eters when you select a function. When the
parameters for a given function cannot all be
presented at once on the display, arrows are
displayed on the right hand side to indicate
that additional parameters can be displayed
using the arrow keys. After 5 minutes of in-
activity, the display returns to the CURRENT
CONDITIONS display.
Arrow
Keys
LCD
Display
Menu
Select
Buttons
Digital
Display
Status
LEDs
Menu Select buttons — The up and down-ar-
row keys are used to scroll into the main menu
located on the left side of the controller.
Arrow Keys — The up and down-arrow keys
are used to scroll within a function menu.
The right-arrow key is used to select a menu
option. The left-arrow key is used to return
to the previous menu display.
Modify Button — The Modify key is used to
change a parameter value. Once the Modify
key is pressed, the selected parameter flashes
quicker on the display. Use the up and down-
arrow keys to adjust the parameter.
Digital Display — This display shows the
current light intensity, as defined by the light
programs.
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PROGRAM 1 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 2 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 3 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 4 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 5 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N

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9. INSTALLATION REPORT
CLIENT
Name: _______________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
City: _______________________________________________
Tel.: _______________________________________________
Fax: _______________________________________________
INSTALLER
Name: _______________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
City: _______________________________________________
Tel.: _______________________________________________
Fax: _______________________________________________
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4.2. How to Select &
Modify the Parameters
Parameter Selection:
1. Use the arrow keys to navigate within
the LCD display in order to select the desired
parameter.
Parameter adjustment:
2. A parameter that can be adjusted slowly
blinks when it is selected. If a value does
not flash when being selected, it means
that the value is a reading. It thus cannot
be changed.
3. Press the Modify button once to access
the edition mode. The parameter then flashes
quickly. It is now possible to modify the
parameter’s vale.
4. Use the up and down-arrow keys to set
the parameter to the desired vale.
5. Press the Modify button once again to
validate the new value and to exit from the
edition mode.
4.3. Meaning of the Status
LEDs
Status LED Meaning
24 hour lights Turns on when a 24 hour
light program is active.
Sunrise Turns on when a sunrise is
in progress
Sunset Turns on when a sunset is
in progress
Light peak Turns on when a light peak
is executed.
Manual mode Turns on when the control-
ler is in manual mode.
Automatic mode Turns on when the control-
ler is in automatic mode
5. USER SETUP
5.1. Time & Date
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 3. Set Clock
Time & Date
Y/M/D 200X/01/01
12:00:00
2. Press the right-arrow key once. The year
flashes on the display. Press the Modify but-
ton to edit the value then use the arrow keys
to set the year.
3. Press the right-arrow key once again to
step to the next item. Proceed in similar fash-
ion to set the whole time and date.

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5.2. Password
This function allows identifying 2 different
types of user. It is used to restrict access to
certain parameter settings. The password is
made up of three blocks of two digits, for ex-
ample: 13 44 21. When a correct password
is entered, the current user is identified.
Installer Password — B y defa ult, t h e Installe r
password is set to "06-01-00". The installer
mode gives full access to all the functions
of the controller. By default, the controller
exits from the installer mode after 15 minutes
of inactivity. The installer password can be
modified as explained below.
User Password — The user mode gives access
to the basic functions of the controller. By de-
fault this password is set to "01-02-03". Note
that some menus will not be accessible from
the user mode. The user password cannot be
modified and is automatically selected after 15
minutes of inactivity.
Entering a password:
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 1. Password
Password
Enter password:
00 ** **
2. Press the right-arrow key to enter the pass-
word. The first two-digit number flashes on the
display. Press the M o di fy but to n o nce then use
the arrow keys to set the first number.
3. Press the right-arrow key once. The sec-
ond two-digit number flashes on the display.
Press the Modify button then use the up and
down-arrow keys to set the second number.
Proceed in similar fashion to enter the third
number. Press the right-arrow key one last
time to validate the whole password.
4. If the entered password is incorrect, the er-
ror message “Wrong Password” is displayed.
Modifying the Installer's Password:
The installer password must be entered first
before being allowed to modify it. Proceed as
explained above to enter the installer pass-
word. Note that the installer's password is
set to 06-01-00 by default.
The password "01-02-03" is reserved
for the user mode. Do not use the same
code for the installer password.
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 2. Installation*
* This menu is only available from the installer
mode.
Installation
Nb Program 10
Contrast 100
Time Mode AM/PM
Installer Password
Code #1 6
Code #2 1
Code #3 0
2. Press the down-arrow key to select the
first two-digit code of the installer pass-
word.
3. Press the Modify button then use the ar-
row keys to set the password's first number
to the desired value. Press the Modify but-
ton once again to validate the first number
of the code.
4. Press the down-arrow key once. The
password's second number flashes on the
display. Proceed in similar fashion to modify
the password's second and third numbers.
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TRANSFER ERROR
The controller will not warn you if
the transfer is incorrect. Respect
the following rules to make sure
the transfer works properly:
1. Make sure the card switch is
at the unlocked position before
transferring a configuration on
the card.
2. Do not move or hold the card
while a transfer is ongoing.
9. Once the transfer is over, simultaneously
press and hold the MENU SELECT up- and
down-arrow keys for 5 seconds to exit the
transfer menu and then remove the memory
card from the connector as follows:
- Turn off power to the controller;
- Open the controller's cover;
- Remove the card from the connector;
- Close the cover then reapply power to the
controller.
10. Lock the card’s switch if required.

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8. MEMORY CARD
The memory card is used to create a backup
copy of your controller’s configuration. The
card is also useful to transfer the configura-
tion of one controller to another controller of
the same type.
The switch at the bottom of the card is used
to lock or to unlock the card ( = locked,
= unlocked).
Turn off power each time you open the
controller's enclosure. This prevents
accidental exposure to areas of high
voltage.
Memory Card
Card Switch
Connector
Electronic
Board
To transfer a configuration:
3. Turn off power to the controller.
4. Open the latch and lift the controller's
cover.
5. If you are about to copy the controller's
configuration on the memory card, make
sure the card's switch is at the unlocked
position.
6. Insert the card in the J9 connector located
on the electronic board inside the controller.
Components of the memory card must face
down as illustrated.
7. Close the cover then reapply power to
the controller. The transfer menu should
be shown on screen (if this is not the case,
simultaneously press the MENU SELECT
up- and down-arrow keys for 3 seconds to
display this menu).
8. Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select
the proper type of transfer:
Memory card to controller:
To transfer the memory card's content into
the controller, select the "Mem.Card –>
Ctrl".Once it is selected, simultaneously
press the ADJUSTMENT BUTTON up and
down-arrow key to start the transfer.
Mem.Card –> Ctrl
to start
Controller to memory card:
To save the controller's configuration into the
memory card, select the "Ctrl –> Mem. Card"
menu. Once it is selected, simultaneously
press the ADJUSTMENT BUTTON up and
down-arrow key to start the transfer.
Ctrl –> Mem.Card
to start
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5.3. Installation Options
The following section describes how to
customize the controller for your particular
application. This setup generally needs to be
performed only once.
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 2. Installation*
* This menu is only available from the installer
mode (s.5.2).
Installation
Nb Program 10
Contrast 100
Time Mode AM/PM
Installer Password
Code #1 6
Code #2 1
Code #3 0
2. Set the following parameters:
Nu m b er of l ight p r o g r a ms — Select the proper
number of light programs. Adjustable from 1
to 10 programs. *Refer to section 6.1 for further
information about these programs.
Contrast — Select the LCD screen's appro-
priate contrast level. Adjustable from 10 to
100%.
Time Mode — Select the desired time format
(AM/PM or 24 hours).
5.4. Version
This menu shows the version number of your
controller program. This piece of information
is useful to get technical support.
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 2. Installation
» 4. Version
VLC-4 Vx.x
Vx.x PC.xx

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6. LIGHT PROGRAMS
6.1. Principle of Operation
• Light Programs:
The controller can use 10 different light pro-
grams containing 6 daily light cycles each.
The same program is performed every day
until another program replaces it (the pro-
gram selection is made according to the age
of the animals).
• Light Cycles:
Up to 6 different light cycles can be per-
formed in the course of a light program. These
cycles are used to change the light intensity
over the day (see graph below).
When the start time of a cycle is reached, the
light intensity gradually increases over the
sunrise delay. The standard light intensity is
reached when the sunrise delay has elapsed.
The standard intensity is maintained until the
stop time is reached. At that moment, the
light intensity decreases gradually and goes
back to minimum intensity over the sunset
delay. The minimum intensity is maintained
until the start time of the following cycle.
• Light Peaks:
Light peaks are marked increase in the light
intensity over a short period of time. They
are used to stimulate the animals. When light
peaks are used, they are preformed right after
the sunrise, at the very beginning of the cycle
(or at the beginning of a 24-hour light pro-
gram). They are then performed on a regular
basis, according to a user-defined timer.
When a light peak starts, the light intensity
increases from the standard intensity towards
the peak intensity over the Peak Sunrise delay.
The Peak Intensity is then maintained during
the Peak Duration and then the light intensity
gradually decreases during the Peak Sunset.
The next peak is performed at the end of
the Peak Cycle.
Light
Intensity
Peak
Intensity
Standard
Intensity
Minimum
Intensity
Start
Time
Sunrise
Stop
Time
Sunset
Peak Cycle
CYCLE 1
CYCLE 1 CYCLE 2 CYCLE 3 CYCLE 4 CYCLE 5 CYCLE 6
LIGHT PROGRAM
Peak
Sunrise
Peak
Sunset
Duration
Time
Light Cycles with Peaks
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6.6. Current Conditions
This menu gives a quick view of the current
conditions in the house. it is automatically
selected after 5 minutes of inactivity.
1. Select the following menu items:
» CURRENT CONDITIONS
Current Conditions
Light Program 3
Animal Age 6
Intensity 0
2. The following information is displayed:
- Ongoing light program
- Current animal age (in days)
- Current light intensity (%).
6.7. Alarms
An alarm situation occurs when power to the
VLC-4 fails. In this case, the alarm relay is
activated. When the alarm relay is activated,
the normally open contact closes.
7. ANIMAL AGE
The moment at which each light program
starts is based on the animal age. This sec-
tion shows how to set it.
1. Select the following menu items:
» ANIMAL AGE
Animal Age
Start Flock? No
Animal Age Off
2. The following information is displayed:
Start Flock? — The animal age automati-
cally goes back to -5 day when a new flock
starts.
Negative day numbers represent the
number of days left before the animals
arrive in the building.
Animal Age — Set the current age to the
proper value (from -5 to 450 days) or select
"Off" to stop the light programs.

14 VLC-4 rev.02
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Peak Cycle — This is the time required to
perform a complete light peak cycle. It must
be longer than the peak's duration + peak
sunrise + peak sunset. Refer to the previ-
ous graph.
Peak Duration — This is the delay during over
which the peak’s intensity is maintained. It
ranges from 1 to 59 minutes.
Peak's Intensity — This is the light intensity
of a peak. It ranges from 0 to 100% and must
be higher than the standard light intensity.
Peak's Sunrise / Sunset — This is the period
of time over which the light intensity gradu-
ally increases (or decreases) in a light peak.
The sunrise and sunset delay of a light peak
ranges from 1to 60 minutes.
6.5. Manual/Automatic Mode
The manual mode can be enable anytime
if you need to change the light intensity in
the house.
Note that the red LED display at the top right
corner of the controller always shows the
light intensity of the ongoing light program
(it never shows the light intensity selected
in manual mode).
1. Select the following menu items:
» MANUAL MODE
Manual Mode
Auto On
Intensity 0
Manual Off
Intensity 0
Back to Auto Yes
Minutes to Auto 15
2. Set the following parameters:
Auto — The automatic mode's On/Off status
is displayed and cannot be modified. This
status is related to the manual mode status,
i.e. if the manual mode is activated the au-
tomatic mode is automatically disabled and
vice versa.
Intensity — This is the light intensity of the
ongoing light program. This value is displayed
as a reading and cannot be modified.
Manual— Select "On" to enable the manual
mode or "Off" to go back to the automatic
mode.
Intensity — Select the desired light inten-
sity of the manual mode. It ranges from 0
to 100%.
Back to Auto — Select "Yes" if you want the
controller to switch back to the automatic
mode after a certain period of time.
Minutes to Auto — Select after how many
minutes the controller must switch back to
the automatic mode.
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24h Lights with Peaks
Note that the peak cycle must com-
pletely fit in the light cycle in order to be
performed (the peak's sunset must end
before the end of the light cycle).
Light
Intensity
Peak
Intensity
Standard
Intensity
Minimum
Intensity
Program
Starts
Program
Ends
Peak Cycle
Peak
Sunrise
Peak
Sunset
Duration
Time
• Lights on 24 hours:
With the "Light on 24h" option, the lights are
always lit at their standard intensity during
the whole program.
Light
Intensity
Peak
Intensity
Standard
Intensity
Minimum
Intensity
Start Time
Peak
Cycle
Stop Time
Time
Light
Cycle
Incomplete
peak cycle. The
light peak is
not performed.
Peak
Cycle
Incomplete Peak Cycle

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6.2. Light Program Settings
1. Select the following menu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
» 1. Settings
The following parameters can be accessed by all user
but they can only be modified by the installer (s. 5.2).
Program X Settings
Day -5
Lights on 24h? Yes
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
2. Set the following parameters (Refer to
the sec. 6.1 to get further information on these
parameters):
Day — This is the day at which the selected
program s t a rts. It ra n g e s fro m - 5 to 450 days .
Negative day numbers represent the number
of days left before the animals arrive in the
building.*When a light program starts, the con-
troller disables the previous program and makes a
gradual transition between the light intensity of the
program that ended and the new program.
Lights on 24 Hours — Select "Yes" to use the
24-hour light program or select "No" to en-
able the light cycles. *Enabling this function will
disable light cycles on the selected light program.
Standard Intensity — This is the standard
light intensity when the lights 24H light op-
tion is used. It ranges from 0 (Off) to 100%.
*This parameters is accessible if the 24-hour light
programs are enabled above. If light cycles are used,
the standard intensity must be set separately for each
cycle (see next section).
Minimum Intensity — This value represents
the light intensity at the end of a cycle. It
ranges from 0 (Off) to 100%. *Thisparameters
is accessible if the light cycles are used (i.e., the 24-
hour light programs are disabled above).
Sunrise — When a cycle starts, the light inten-
sity increases from the minimum towards the
stan d a r d inte ns ity ove r th is p eriod of time. The
sunrise delay ranges from 1to 60 min. *Thispa-
rameters is accessible if the light cycles are used (i.e.,
the 24-hour light programs are disabled above).
Sunset — When the stop time of a cycle
is reached, the light intensity gradually
decreases from its standard intensity to
its minimum intensity over this period of
time. The sunset delay ranges from 1to 60
minutes.*This parameters is accessible if the light
cycles are used (i.e., the 24-hour light programs are
disabled above).
Number of Cycles — Set the number of light
cycles of the selected light program. This
parameter ranges from 1 to 6 cycles.*Thispa-
rameters is accessible if the light cycles are used (i.e.,
the 24-hour light programs are disabled above).
Program X Settings
Day -5
Lights on 24h? No
Min Intensity 20
Sunrise 2
Sunset 2
Nb of cycles 6
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6.3. Light Cycle Settings
The following parameters must be set sepa-
rately for every light cycle.
1. Select the following menu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
»Select the desired light cycle
The "Lights on 24h" option must be disabled on the
selected program in order to access the light cycle
menu (s. 6.2).
The following parameters can be accessed by all user
but they can only be modified by the installer (s. 5.2).
Prog.1 cycle 1
Start time 12:00A
Stop time 12:00A
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
2. Set the following parameters ((Refer tothesec.
6.1 to get further information on these parameters):
Start Time — This is the time at which the
selected light cycle starts. Make sure the
cycles do not overlap each other.
Stop Time — This is the time at which the
light intensity starts decreasing (the sunset
begins).
Standard Intensity — This is the regular light
intensity of the cycle. It ranges from 0 to
100% and must be higher than the minimum
intensity.
6.4. Light Peak Settings
• Peaks on 24-hour programs
1. Select the following amenu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
» 1. Settings.
Program X Settings
Day 1
Lights on 24h? Yes
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
• Peaks during Light Cycles
1. Select the following menu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
»Select the desired light cycle
The following parameters must be set
separately for every light cycle.
Prog.1 cycle 1
Start time 12:00A
Stop time 12:00A
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
2. Set the following parameters:
Use Spikes ? — Select "Yes" to use light peaks
in the selected program.

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6.2. Light Program Settings
1. Select the following menu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
» 1. Settings
The following parameters can be accessed by all user
but they can only be modified by the installer (s. 5.2).
Program X Settings
Day -5
Lights on 24h? Yes
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
2. Set the following parameters (Refer to
the sec. 6.1 to get further information on these
parameters):
Day — This is the day at which the selected
program s t a rts. It ra n g e s fro m - 5 to 450 days .
Negative day numbers represent the number
of days left before the animals arrive in the
building.*When a light program starts, the con-
troller disables the previous program and makes a
gradual transition between the light intensity of the
program that ended and the new program.
Lights on 24 Hours — Select "Yes" to use the
24-hour light program or select "No" to en-
able the light cycles. *Enabling this function will
disable light cycles on the selected light program.
Standard Intensity — This is the standard
light intensity when the lights 24H light op-
tion is used. It ranges from 0 (Off) to 100%.
*This parameters is accessible if the 24-hour light
programs are enabled above. If light cycles are used,
the standard intensity must be set separately for each
cycle (see next section).
Minimum Intensity — This value represents
the light intensity at the end of a cycle. It
ranges from 0 (Off) to 100%. *Thisparameters
is accessible if the light cycles are used (i.e., the 24-
hour light programs are disabled above).
Sunrise — When a cycle starts, the light inten-
sity increases from the minimum towards the
stan d a r d inte ns ity ove r th is p eriod of time. The
sunrise delay ranges from 1to 60 min. *Thispa-
rameters is accessible if the light cycles are used (i.e.,
the 24-hour light programs are disabled above).
Sunset — When the stop time of a cycle
is reached, the light intensity gradually
decreases from its standard intensity to
its minimum intensity over this period of
time. The sunset delay ranges from 1to 60
minutes.*This parameters is accessible if the light
cycles are used (i.e., the 24-hour light programs are
disabled above).
Number of Cycles — Set the number of light
cycles of the selected light program. This
parameter ranges from 1 to 6 cycles.*Thispa-
rameters is accessible if the light cycles are used (i.e.,
the 24-hour light programs are disabled above).
Program X Settings
Day -5
Lights on 24h? No
Min Intensity 20
Sunrise 2
Sunset 2
Nb of cycles 6
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6.3. Light Cycle Settings
The following parameters must be set sepa-
rately for every light cycle.
1. Select the following menu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
»Select the desired light cycle
The "Lights on 24h" option must be disabled on the
selected program in order to access the light cycle
menu (s. 6.2).
The following parameters can be accessed by all user
but they can only be modified by the installer (s. 5.2).
Prog.1 cycle 1
Start time 12:00A
Stop time 12:00A
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
2. Set the following parameters ((Refer tothesec.
6.1 to get further information on these parameters):
Start Time — This is the time at which the
selected light cycle starts. Make sure the
cycles do not overlap each other.
Stop Time — This is the time at which the
light intensity starts decreasing (the sunset
begins).
Standard Intensity — This is the regular light
intensity of the cycle. It ranges from 0 to
100% and must be higher than the minimum
intensity.
6.4. Light Peak Settings
• Peaks on 24-hour programs
1. Select the following amenu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
» 1. Settings.
Program X Settings
Day 1
Lights on 24h? Yes
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
• Peaks during Light Cycles
1. Select the following menu items:
» LIGHT PROGRAMS:
»Select the desired light program
»Select the desired light cycle
The following parameters must be set
separately for every light cycle.
Prog.1 cycle 1
Start time 12:00A
Stop time 12:00A
Std Intensity 80
Use spikes? Yes
Peak Cycle 0:15
Peak Duration 1
Peak Intensity 100
Peak Sunrise 2
Peak Sunset 2
2. Set the following parameters:
Use Spikes ? — Select "Yes" to use light peaks
in the selected program.

14 VLC-4 rev.02
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Peak Cycle — This is the time required to
perform a complete light peak cycle. It must
be longer than the peak's duration + peak
sunrise + peak sunset. Refer to the previ-
ous graph.
Peak Duration — This is the delay during over
which the peak’s intensity is maintained. It
ranges from 1 to 59 minutes.
Peak's Intensity — This is the light intensity
of a peak. It ranges from 0 to 100% and must
be higher than the standard light intensity.
Peak's Sunrise / Sunset — This is the period
of time over which the light intensity gradu-
ally increases (or decreases) in a light peak.
The sunrise and sunset delay of a light peak
ranges from 1to 60 minutes.
6.5. Manual/Automatic Mode
The manual mode can be enable anytime
if you need to change the light intensity in
the house.
Note that the red LED display at the top right
corner of the controller always shows the
light intensity of the ongoing light program
(it never shows the light intensity selected
in manual mode).
1. Select the following menu items:
» MANUAL MODE
Manual Mode
Auto On
Intensity 0
Manual Off
Intensity 0
Back to Auto Yes
Minutes to Auto 15
2. Set the following parameters:
Auto — The automatic mode's On/Off status
is displayed and cannot be modified. This
status is related to the manual mode status,
i.e. if the manual mode is activated the au-
tomatic mode is automatically disabled and
vice versa.
Intensity — This is the light intensity of the
ongoing light program. This value is displayed
as a reading and cannot be modified.
Manual— Select "On" to enable the manual
mode or "Off" to go back to the automatic
mode.
Intensity — Select the desired light inten-
sity of the manual mode. It ranges from 0
to 100%.
Back to Auto — Select "Yes" if you want the
controller to switch back to the automatic
mode after a certain period of time.
Minutes to Auto — Select after how many
minutes the controller must switch back to
the automatic mode.
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24h Lights with Peaks
Note that the peak cycle must com-
pletely fit in the light cycle in order to be
performed (the peak's sunset must end
before the end of the light cycle).
Light
Intensity
Peak
Intensity
Standard
Intensity
Minimum
Intensity
Program
Starts
Program
Ends
Peak Cycle
Peak
Sunrise
Peak
Sunset
Duration
Time
• Lights on 24 hours:
With the "Light on 24h" option, the lights are
always lit at their standard intensity during
the whole program.
Light
Intensity
Peak
Intensity
Standard
Intensity
Minimum
Intensity
Start Time
Peak
Cycle
Stop Time
Time
Light
Cycle
Incomplete
peak cycle. The
light peak is
not performed.
Peak
Cycle
Incomplete Peak Cycle

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6. LIGHT PROGRAMS
6.1. Principle of Operation
• Light Programs:
The controller can use 10 different light pro-
grams containing 6 daily light cycles each.
The same program is performed every day
until another program replaces it (the pro-
gram selection is made according to the age
of the animals).
• Light Cycles:
Up to 6 different light cycles can be per-
formed in the course of a light program. These
cycles are used to change the light intensity
over the day (see graph below).
When the start time of a cycle is reached, the
light intensity gradually increases over the
sunrise delay. The standard light intensity is
reached when the sunrise delay has elapsed.
The standard intensity is maintained until the
stop time is reached. At that moment, the
light intensity decreases gradually and goes
back to minimum intensity over the sunset
delay. The minimum intensity is maintained
until the start time of the following cycle.
• Light Peaks:
Light peaks are marked increase in the light
intensity over a short period of time. They
are used to stimulate the animals. When light
peaks are used, they are preformed right after
the sunrise, at the very beginning of the cycle
(or at the beginning of a 24-hour light pro-
gram). They are then performed on a regular
basis, according to a user-defined timer.
When a light peak starts, the light intensity
increases from the standard intensity towards
the peak intensity over the Peak Sunrise delay.
The Peak Intensity is then maintained during
the Peak Duration and then the light intensity
gradually decreases during the Peak Sunset.
The next peak is performed at the end of
the Peak Cycle.
Light
Intensity
Peak
Intensity
Standard
Intensity
Minimum
Intensity
Start
Time
Sunrise
Stop
Time
Sunset
Peak Cycle
CYCLE 1
CYCLE 1 CYCLE 2 CYCLE 3 CYCLE 4 CYCLE 5 CYCLE 6
LIGHT PROGRAM
Peak
Sunrise
Peak
Sunset
Duration
Time
Light Cycles with Peaks
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6.6. Current Conditions
This menu gives a quick view of the current
conditions in the house. it is automatically
selected after 5 minutes of inactivity.
1. Select the following menu items:
» CURRENT CONDITIONS
Current Conditions
Light Program 3
Animal Age 6
Intensity 0
2. The following information is displayed:
- Ongoing light program
- Current animal age (in days)
- Current light intensity (%).
6.7. Alarms
An alarm situation occurs when power to the
VLC-4 fails. In this case, the alarm relay is
activated. When the alarm relay is activated,
the normally open contact closes.
7. ANIMAL AGE
The moment at which each light program
starts is based on the animal age. This sec-
tion shows how to set it.
1. Select the following menu items:
» ANIMAL AGE
Animal Age
Start Flock? No
Animal Age Off
2. The following information is displayed:
Start Flock? — The animal age automati-
cally goes back to -5 day when a new flock
starts.
Negative day numbers represent the
number of days left before the animals
arrive in the building.
Animal Age — Set the current age to the
proper value (from -5 to 450 days) or select
"Off" to stop the light programs.

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8. MEMORY CARD
The memory card is used to create a backup
copy of your controller’s configuration. The
card is also useful to transfer the configura-
tion of one controller to another controller of
the same type.
The switch at the bottom of the card is used
to lock or to unlock the card ( = locked,
= unlocked).
Turn off power each time you open the
controller's enclosure. This prevents
accidental exposure to areas of high
voltage.
Memory Card
Card Switch
Connector
Electronic
Board
To transfer a configuration:
3. Turn off power to the controller.
4. Open the latch and lift the controller's
cover.
5. If you are about to copy the controller's
configuration on the memory card, make
sure the card's switch is at the unlocked
position.
6. Insert the card in the J9 connector located
on the electronic board inside the controller.
Components of the memory card must face
down as illustrated.
7. Close the cover then reapply power to
the controller. The transfer menu should
be shown on screen (if this is not the case,
simultaneously press the MENU SELECT
up- and down-arrow keys for 3 seconds to
display this menu).
8. Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select
the proper type of transfer:
Memory card to controller:
To transfer the memory card's content into
the controller, select the "Mem.Card –>
Ctrl".Once it is selected, simultaneously
press the ADJUSTMENT BUTTON up and
down-arrow key to start the transfer.
Mem.Card –> Ctrl
to start
Controller to memory card:
To save the controller's configuration into the
memory card, select the "Ctrl –> Mem. Card"
menu. Once it is selected, simultaneously
press the ADJUSTMENT BUTTON up and
down-arrow key to start the transfer.
Ctrl –> Mem.Card
to start
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5.3. Installation Options
The following section describes how to
customize the controller for your particular
application. This setup generally needs to be
performed only once.
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 2. Installation*
* This menu is only available from the installer
mode (s.5.2).
Installation
Nb Program 10
Contrast 100
Time Mode AM/PM
Installer Password
Code #1 6
Code #2 1
Code #3 0
2. Set the following parameters:
Nu m b er of l ight p r o g r a ms — Select the proper
number of light programs. Adjustable from 1
to 10 programs. *Refer to section 6.1 for further
information about these programs.
Contrast — Select the LCD screen's appro-
priate contrast level. Adjustable from 10 to
100%.
Time Mode — Select the desired time format
(AM/PM or 24 hours).
5.4. Version
This menu shows the version number of your
controller program. This piece of information
is useful to get technical support.
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 2. Installation
» 4. Version
VLC-4 Vx.x
Vx.x PC.xx

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5.2. Password
This function allows identifying 2 different
types of user. It is used to restrict access to
certain parameter settings. The password is
made up of three blocks of two digits, for ex-
ample: 13 44 21. When a correct password
is entered, the current user is identified.
Installer Password — B y defa ult, t h e Installe r
password is set to "06-01-00". The installer
mode gives full access to all the functions
of the controller. By default, the controller
exits from the installer mode after 15 minutes
of inactivity. The installer password can be
modified as explained below.
User Password — The user mode gives access
to the basic functions of the controller. By de-
fault this password is set to "01-02-03". Note
that some menus will not be accessible from
the user mode. The user password cannot be
modified and is automatically selected after 15
minutes of inactivity.
Entering a password:
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 1. Password
Password
Enter password:
00 ** **
2. Press the right-arrow key to enter the pass-
word. The first two-digit number flashes on the
display. Press the M o di fy but to n o nce then use
the arrow keys to set the first number.
3. Press the right-arrow key once. The sec-
ond two-digit number flashes on the display.
Press the Modify button then use the up and
down-arrow keys to set the second number.
Proceed in similar fashion to enter the third
number. Press the right-arrow key one last
time to validate the whole password.
4. If the entered password is incorrect, the er-
ror message “Wrong Password” is displayed.
Modifying the Installer's Password:
The installer password must be entered first
before being allowed to modify it. Proceed as
explained above to enter the installer pass-
word. Note that the installer's password is
set to 06-01-00 by default.
The password "01-02-03" is reserved
for the user mode. Do not use the same
code for the installer password.
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 2. Installation*
* This menu is only available from the installer
mode.
Installation
Nb Program 10
Contrast 100
Time Mode AM/PM
Installer Password
Code #1 6
Code #2 1
Code #3 0
2. Press the down-arrow key to select the
first two-digit code of the installer pass-
word.
3. Press the Modify button then use the ar-
row keys to set the password's first number
to the desired value. Press the Modify but-
ton once again to validate the first number
of the code.
4. Press the down-arrow key once. The
password's second number flashes on the
display. Proceed in similar fashion to modify
the password's second and third numbers.
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TRANSFER ERROR
The controller will not warn you if
the transfer is incorrect. Respect
the following rules to make sure
the transfer works properly:
1. Make sure the card switch is
at the unlocked position before
transferring a configuration on
the card.
2. Do not move or hold the card
while a transfer is ongoing.
9. Once the transfer is over, simultaneously
press and hold the MENU SELECT up- and
down-arrow keys for 5 seconds to exit the
transfer menu and then remove the memory
card from the connector as follows:
- Turn off power to the controller;
- Open the controller's cover;
- Remove the card from the connector;
- Close the cover then reapply power to the
controller.
10. Lock the card’s switch if required.

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9. INSTALLATION REPORT
CLIENT
Name: _______________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
City: _______________________________________________
Tel.: _______________________________________________
Fax: _______________________________________________
INSTALLER
Name: _______________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
City: _______________________________________________
Tel.: _______________________________________________
Fax: _______________________________________________
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4.2. How to Select &
Modify the Parameters
Parameter Selection:
1. Use the arrow keys to navigate within
the LCD display in order to select the desired
parameter.
Parameter adjustment:
2. A parameter that can be adjusted slowly
blinks when it is selected. If a value does
not flash when being selected, it means
that the value is a reading. It thus cannot
be changed.
3. Press the Modify button once to access
the edition mode. The parameter then flashes
quickly. It is now possible to modify the
parameter’s vale.
4. Use the up and down-arrow keys to set
the parameter to the desired vale.
5. Press the Modify button once again to
validate the new value and to exit from the
edition mode.
4.3. Meaning of the Status
LEDs
Status LED Meaning
24 hour lights Turns on when a 24 hour
light program is active.
Sunrise Turns on when a sunrise is
in progress
Sunset Turns on when a sunset is
in progress
Light peak Turns on when a light peak
is executed.
Manual mode Turns on when the control-
ler is in manual mode.
Automatic mode Turns on when the control-
ler is in automatic mode
5. USER SETUP
5.1. Time & Date
1. Select the following menu items:
» USER SETUP
» 3. Set Clock
Time & Date
Y/M/D 200X/01/01
12:00:00
2. Press the right-arrow key once. The year
flashes on the display. Press the Modify but-
ton to edit the value then use the arrow keys
to set the year.
3. Press the right-arrow key once again to
step to the next item. Proceed in similar fash-
ion to set the whole time and date.

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3. MOUNTING INSTRUC-
TIONS
Open the latch and open the cover. Remove
the black caps located on each of the four
mounting holes. Mount the enclosure on
the wall using four screws. Be sure the
electrical knockouts are at the bottom of
the enclosure in order to prevent water from
entering the controller. Insert the screws in
the mounting holes and tighten. Fasten the
four black caps provided with the controller
onto the four mounting holes. The enclosure
must be mounted in a location that will allow
the cover to be completely opened right up
against the wall.
3.1. Connection
To connect the controller, refer to the wiring
diagram enclosed with this user's manual.
Use the electrical knockouts provided at the
bottom of the enclosure. Do not make ad-
ditional holes in the enclosure, particularly
on the side of the enclosure when using a
computer communications module.
All wiring must be done by an autho-
rized electrician and must comply with
applicable codes, laws and regulations.
Be sure power is off before doing any
wiring to avoid electrical shocks and
equipment damage.
Alarm — There are two types of alarms on
the market. One type activates when cur-
rent is cut off at its input, whereas the other
activates when current is supplied at its
input. For an alarm of the first type, use the
NC termi n a l a s shown on the wiring diagram.
For an alarm of the second type, use the NO
terminal.
CL2/NNC NO L1
ALARM SUPPLY
115 / 230VAC
4. USER INTERFACE
4.1. Location of the Controls
LCD Display — The LCD screen gives the
current readings and displays the param-
eters when you select a function. When the
parameters for a given function cannot all be
presented at once on the display, arrows are
displayed on the right hand side to indicate
that additional parameters can be displayed
using the arrow keys. After 5 minutes of in-
activity, the display returns to the CURRENT
CONDITIONS display.
Arrow
Keys
LCD
Display
Menu
Select
Buttons
Digital
Display
Status
LEDs
Menu Select buttons — The up and down-ar-
row keys are used to scroll into the main menu
located on the left side of the controller.
Arrow Keys — The up and down-arrow keys
are used to scroll within a function menu.
The right-arrow key is used to select a menu
option. The left-arrow key is used to return
to the previous menu display.
Modify Button — The Modify key is used to
change a parameter value. Once the Modify
key is pressed, the selected parameter flashes
quicker on the display. Use the up and down-
arrow keys to adjust the parameter.
Digital Display — This display shows the
current light intensity, as defined by the light
programs.
19
VLC-4 rev.02
VLC-4
PROGRAM 1 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 2 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 3 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 4 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 5 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N

20 VLC-4 rev.02
VLC-4
PROGRAM 6 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 7 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 8 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 9 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
PROGRAM 10 Start day _______ Min Intensity _______% Sunrise ____:____ Sunset ____:____
Cycle 1
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 2
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 3
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 4
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 5
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
Cycle 6
Intensity _______% Starts at ____:____ Stops at ____:____ Use peaks? ___Y ___N
5
VLC-4 rev.02
VLC-4
2. FEATURES
The VLC-4 is a light dimmer controller that
is used to regulate the light intensity in live-
stock buildings. It offers great flexibility in
the light intensity adjustment. Many options
are provided to assure the light intensity is
always adapted to the animals' needs as they
are growing.
MAIN FEATURES:
LCD display — An LCD display provides an
efficient interface for displaying, monitoring
and adjusting parameter values.
Pilot lights & LED display — pilot lights indi-
cating the state of outputs and a led display
showing the current light intensity allow the
user to monitor the operation of the system
without having to enter the building.
10 Light programs — the controller can use
up to 10 different light programs based on the
animal age. The light intensity thus always
suits the animals' requirements.
6 Sunrise/ sunset cycles — up to 6 cycles
can be enabled in each light program to
change the light intensity within the day. The
light intensity can gradually increase at the
beginning of a cycle and gradually decrease
at the end of a cycle to simulate a sunrise
and a sunset.
Light peaks — short and marked increases in
the light intensity can be added to stimulate
the animals. When enabled, the peaks are
performed regularly according to a user-
defined frequency.
Automatic / manual mode — the user can eas-
ily switch to a manual mode that permits to
adjust the light intensity to a specific value.
Password protection — a password feature
is used to restrict access to the controller
setup functions.
Backup battery — a backup battery allows
the unit to keep time and settings in case of
a power failure.
Overload and overvoltage protection — re-
settable fuses are provided at low-voltage
inputs and outputs of the controller to pro-
tect its circuitry in the case of an overload
or overvoltage.
Computer control — the controller can be
connected to a computer, thus making it
possible to centralize the management of
information and diversify control strategies.