Strand Lighting EC21 User manual

Installation Manual
Dimmer Rack
Manual Part Number: 2-450173-020
Revision Level: C
Revision Date: 16-August-2005
Written By: Charles Coley, II

The material in this manual is for information purposes only and is subject to
change without notice. Strand Lighting assumes no responsibility for any errors
or omissions, which may appear in this manual. For comments and
suggestions regarding corrections and/or updates to this manual, please
contact the nearest Strand Lighting office.
El contenido de este manual es solamente para información y está sujeto a
cambios sin previo aviso. Strand Lighting no asume responsabilidad por
errores o omisiones que puedan aparecer. Cualquier comentario, sugerencia o
corrección con respecto a este manual, favor de dirijirlo a la oficina de Strand
Lighting más cercana.
Der Inhalt dieses Handbuches ist nur für Informationszwecke gedacht,
Aenderungen sind vorbehalten. Strand Lighting uebernimmt keine
Verantwortung für Fehler oder Irrtuemer, die in diesem Handbuch auftreten.
Für Bemerkungen und Verbesserungsvorschlaege oder Vorschlaege in Bezug
auf Korrekturen und/oder Aktualisierungen in diesem Handbuch, moechten wir
Sie bitten, Kontakt mit der naechsten Strand Lighting-Niederlassung
aufzunehmen.
Le matériel décrit dans ce manuel est pour information seulement et est sujet
à changements sans préavis. La compagnie Strand Lighting n’assume aucune
responsibilité sur toute erreur ou ommission inscrite dans ce manuel. Pour
tous commentaires ou suggestions concernant des corrections et/ou les mises
à jour de ce manuel, veuillez s’ll vous plait contacter le bureau de Strand
Lighting le plus proche.
Copyright 2004-2005, Strand Lighting. All rights reserved.
Information contained in this document may not be duplicated in full or in part
by any person without prior written approval of Strand Lighting Ltd. Its sole
purpose is to provide the user with detailed installation information for the
equipment supplied. The use of this document for all other purposes is
specifically prohibited.

i
Prefix
This manual describes the installation procedures for EC21 dimmer racks. A
separate Operator's Guide describes the software operation and its use.
Thank you for choosing Strand Lighting EC21 dimmer racks. We trust that the
equipment will meet all your dimming needs and will provide you with reliable
service for many years.
Strand Lighting can assure you that every effort has been made to ensure that
the equipment has been designed to meet the highest professional standards
and that dimmer racks and their components have been assembled,
inspected, and tested in accordance with our strict quality assurance program.
Should you encounter any problems or difficulties with your dimmer racks,
please contact the nearest Strand Lighting service representative. For a
complete list of Strand Lighting offices and service centers, see below or visit
our Web site (www.strandlighting.com).
United States: 6603 Darin Way, Cypress, CA 90630
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Canada: 2430 Lucknow Drive #15, Mississauga, Ontario L5S 1V3, Canada
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Asia: 20F, Delta House, 3 on Yin Street, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong ROC.
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
United Kingdom: Unit 3 Hammersmith Studios, Yeldham Road, Hammersmith, London W6 8JF, United Kingdom
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Scotland: Mitchelston Industrial Estate, Kirkcaldy, Fife, KY1 3LY, Scotland
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Italy: Via delle Gardenie, 33, 00040 Pomezia – Roma, Italy
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Germany: Kurfürstendamm 70, 10709, Berlin, Germany
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Strand Lighting Offices:

ii
Table of Contents
This manual describes the installation of the EC21 dimmer rack. The installer
should refer to the separate EC21 Operators Guide for detailed information
concerning the initial setup procedures referred to in the Commissioning
section of this manual. Basic Troubleshooting is also provided in the EC21
Operator's Guide.
Definition Of Terms ..............................................................................................v
Technical Assistance .......................................................................................... vi
Section 1 - Hardware Description................................................. 1
General.................................................................................................................1
Construction .........................................................................................................2
Section 2 - Installation................................................................... 7
Environmental Considerations.............................................................................7
Conduit Layout.....................................................................................................8
Positioning the Dimmer Rack(s) ..........................................................................9
Preparing the Rack for Wiring............................................................................10
Locating Dimmer Components ..........................................................................11
Power Wiring......................................................................................................12
Caution.......................................................................................... 13
Load Wiring ........................................................................................................14
Control Wiring.....................................................................................................15
Connecting the Dimmer Control Cable Harness ...............................................17
Connecting the Control Signal Wiring................................................................17
Installing the Door ..............................................................................................24
Section 3 - Commissioning......................................................... 25
Safety Check......................................................................................................25
Initial Power Up ..................................................................................................25
Processor Self Test and Fault Identification......................................................26
LED Status .........................................................................................................27
Output Check .....................................................................................................28
Initial Programming ............................................................................................28
Programming and Fault-Finding ........................................................................28
Index................................................................................................ 2

iii
Figures
Figure 1 – EC21 Rack Layout Fully Populated...........................................1
Figure 2 – Rack Processor Housing (RPH) .................................................3
Figure 3 – Rack Processor Module (RPM)..................................................4
Figure 4 – Control Interconnection Card (CIC)...........................................5
Figure 5 – Dual Dimmer Module ................................................................6
Figure 6 – Recommended Conduit Cutouts.................................................8
Figure 7 – Mounting Dimensions................................................................9
Figure 8 – Clearances ................................................................................10
Figure 9 – EC21 Dimmer Rack .................................................................11
Figure 10 – Bus Bar Connections Behind Processor Assembly................12
Figure 11 – Compression Fittings Detail...................................................13
Figure 12 – EC21 Dimmer Receptacles.....................................................14
Figure 13 – EC21 Load Earth Terminals...................................................14
Figure 14 – Install Electronics Chassis......................................................15
Figure 15 – Connecting Power to the Rack Processor Housing (RPH).....16
Figure 16 – Connecting Control Signal Wiring.........................................17
Figure 17 – Ethernet Wiring and Termination...........................................18
Figure 18 – DMX512 Wiring and Termination.........................................19
Figure 19 – SWC/Outlook Wiring and Termination .................................20
Figure 20 – Remote Contact Closure Termination....................................21
Figure 21 – A/V Interface Termination.....................................................22
Figure 22 – Installing EC21 Rack Hinge Plate and Door..........................24
Figure 23 – Rack Processor Module Front Panel ......................................26
Tables
Table 1 – Ethernet Termination.................................................................18
Table 2 – DMX512 Termination ...............................................................19
Table 3 – SWC/Outlook Termination........................................................20
Table 4 – Remote Contact Closure Termination .......................................21
Table 5 – RS-232 A/V Interface Termination ...........................................22

iv

v
Definition Of Terms
This manual uses the following definitions throughout:
Device controlling a dimmer or group of dimmers. Historically, there is a
physical controller (such as a slider) for each channel. On most current control
systems, channels are numbers accessed by a keypad. Each channel can
control multiple dimmers.
(control interconnection card) The printed circuit board on which all contractor
low-voltage control wiring connections are made. It is located on the top of the
rack processor housing.
Connection device and wiring for powering a lighting fixture from a dimmer.
A unique identification string ranging from 1 to 99,999 which you assign to
each dimmer. The circuit ID is generally the same as the dimmer number.
A fade which contains both an up-fade and a down-fade. Also may refer to
any fade where the levels of one cue are replaced by the levels of another cue.
Cross Sectional Area – describes cable size, and that of connectors to
accommodate them.
The process of recalling a preset from its memory location and putting the
result on stage.
Preset, memory, and cue are often used interchangeably.
The relationship between a control level and the actual dimmer output.
Device controlling power to a lighting fixture. Two luminaries on the same
dimmer cannot be separately controlled.
The original factory settings.
An ANSI communications protocol standard that describes a method of digital
data transmission between controllers, lighting equipment and accessories.
A high-speed network based protocol used to transmit data from a lighting
controller to a dimmer rack using a single Ethernet cable.
A gradual change in stage levels from one set of intensities ("look") to another.
The time it takes for dimmer levels to go from their current levels to the levels
in the selected preset. Each preset has its own fade time.
A numerical value used to express the “brightness” of a dimmer. Usually
shown as %.
Architectural control system located within the rack processor module (RPM)
containing 16 rooms, 8 programmable presets plus on & off and 15 channels
of control per room.
Historically, the process of physically connecting circuits to dimmers. Now
usually refers to electronic assignment of dimmers to channels.
The three phases of the mains supply to which the dimmers are connected are
identified as Line 1, Line 2, and Line 3 in 230v markets and Phase A, Phase B,
and Phase C in 120v markets.
A chassis containing one or two dimmers or contactors. This is sometimes
referred to as a “dimmer.” However, each EC21 power module can have
multiple dimmers or contactors in it, so this manual distinguishes between
dimmers (individual power control circuits) and power modules (a collection of
one or more power control circuits).
channel
CIC
circuit
circuit ID
crossfade
CSA
cue
curve
dimmer
default
DMX512
Ethernet
fade
fade time
Level
Outlook
patch
phase
power module

vi
Assembly containing one or more inverse parallel connected SCR’s together
with isolation and drive circuitry to permit control from a “logic” source.
A pre-defined set of intensities for a set of channels, stored in memory for later
replay. For Outlook applications, the EC21 processor module stores 8
programmable presets per room for up to 16 rooms. For SWC applications,
the processor module stores 128 programmable presets. Preset 0 (ZERO) is
always a blackout.
See “Fade Time.”
A number used to uniquely identify each dimmer rack in a multiple rack
system. Rack numbers are set from the front panel of the processor module,
and are usually set by the installation engineer.
An area separately defined for purposes of architectural lighting control (e.g.,
Outlook control stations). This is usually either a room in the traditional sense
(an indoor enclosed area) or a portion of a room which can be partitioned off.
Each room may be separately and simultaneously controlled by the system.
Rack Processor Housing
Rack Processor Module
(System Wide Control) A method of programming and controlling more than
one dimmer rack simultaneously. A hand held controller lets you program and
recall 128 presets, and control individual dimmers. 8 and 16 channel
pushbutton stations, and an A/V interface, let you recall any 8 or 16 of the 128
presets at each station. Please contact Strand Lighting or see the System
Wide Control Data Sheet or System Wide Control User’s Manual for details on
how SWC works.
Alternative term describing a silicon control rectifier.
EC21 racks and dimmers require a minimum of maintenance and servicing.
See the Operations Guide for basic troubleshooting and periodic maintenance
procedures.
For operation or technical assistance, please contact Strand Lighting or the
local Authorized Service Center serving your area. (www.strandlighting.com)
power cube
preset
preset fade time
rack number
room
RPH
RPM
SWC
Thyristor
Technical Assistance

Section 1 - Hardware Description 1
Section 1 - Hardware Description
The EC21 dimmer rack is a listed, free standing, factory assembly of welded
steel and aluminum construction finished in a fine textured, scratch resistant
coating.
Each EC21 dimmer rack consists of a rack processor housing (RPH) with one
or two rack processor modules (RPM), a fan module, and up to 24, 36 or 48
dimmer modules. The dimmer connectors at the back of the rack provide for
load wire connection. Main bus bars are provided for line wire connections. A
earth lug is provided in the rack. The dimmer connectors in the rack are
polarized to prevent dimmer modules being plugged into slots inappropriate for
their rating. The dimmer racks can be individually fed or bused together using
an optional busing kit.
Large dimmer racks have provision for up to 48 dimmer modules. Mid-range
dimmer racks have provision for up to 36 dimmer modules. Small dimmer
racks have provisions for up to 24 dimmer modules. Dimmer modules contain
one, two or four dimmers, and dimmer module types can be mixed within a
rack in various combinations.
Rack processor modules are available with 96 or 144 dimmer control outputs
to drive EC21 dimmers.
General
Ventilation Grill
Dimmer Modules
Door Strike
Fan Housing
Rack Processo
r
Module
Blank Panel
Door Hinge
Bracket
Rack Processor
Housing
Backup Processor
Module (Optional)
Figure 1 – EC21 Rack Layout Fully Populated

2
The rack is constructed of welded steel and aluminum with bolt-on covers, and
is finished in a fine textured, scratch resistant coating. The rack will accept
removable trays for the dimmer modules, which are screwed in place. The
rack and all modules are earth grounded. The electronics chassis and fan
module are located at the bottom of the rack.
A hinged, locking door covers the front of the dimmer rack. Rack components
are designed for easy removal and installation so that the dimmer rack is open
and empty during installation. Mounting holes are provided so that racks can
be bolted together and to the floor.
Dimensions: Height 2032mm, Width 619mm, Depth 600mm
Weight: With 48 dual standard dimmers and one rack processor
module - 310 Kg
Without dimmer modules, rack processor modules – 136 Kg
The mains bus bars are at the bottom of the rack. They may either be bottom
fed or the supply cables routed down the rear right hand side of the rack from
the top. Contractor load wire connections for the live and neutral route through
the top of the rack and directly onto the module connectors.
The rack is provided with three-phase plus neutral and earth bus bar
distribution, located at the bottom of the rack. The maximum power rating for
each dimmer rack is 800A per phase. Busing across multiple racks is possible
using the rack interconnection busing kit.
Note: Three-phase delta racks and single-phase racks are available in custom
applications.
The EC21 rack is suitable for use with supply voltages of between 90 and
264VAC power and frequency range of 47 to 63 Hz.
Phasing within standard dimmer racks is sequential across the dimmer slots,
running in the phase sequence L1 L1, L2 L2, L3 L3. All dimmers in a vertical
column down the rack are on the same phase. In dual dimmer modules, both
dimmers are on the same phase. In quad dimmer modules, all four dimmers
are on the same phase. When looking at the front of the dimmer rack, phase
L1 is the first and second columns. Phase L2 is the third and fourth columns
and phase L3 is the fifth and sixth columns.
The modules connect to the rack through a proprietary connector with female
power pins and solid brass male power pins. The connector is self-aligning
when the module is inserted. Control signals are incorporated into the
connector.
The aperture is suitable for wire gauge 16mm2or smaller, and has a tapered
entry hole to ease wire insertion. The wire is retained by Allen screw. A wire
adaptor is available for 35mm2wire, when required.
The Control Interconnection Card (CIC) contains all terminals for control
input/output with the exception of the Ethernet receptacle that is located in the
upper left rear of the rack.
The dimmer racks are cooled by a set of low noise variable speed fans in a fan
module at the bottom of the rack. The cooling system is designed to let the
rack continue functioning if any one of the fans fail. Cooling air is pushed up
through the dimmer stack and exhausted through venting at the top of the
rack. These fans are for dimmer cooling only, and can be set to fixed or
variable speed.
The fixed speed fan setting is for situations where changes in ambient noise
are a problem. With this setting, the fans are always ON when any dimmer is
energized.
Construction
Size and Weight
Contracting Access
Supply Connection
Rack Supply Voltage and
Frequency
Phasing
Dimmer Module
Connectors
Control Input/Output
Connection
Coolin
g
Fans

Section 1 - Hardware Description 3
The variable speed fan setting minimizes noise and maximizes fan life. With
this setting, the fan speed with non-reporting modules is adjusted based on the
temperature of the dimmer rack. The fan speed with reporting dimmer
modules is based on the temperature of the dimmer modules and the dimmer
rack. Increases in fan speed take 1 minute with this setting, while decreases
in fan speed take 5 minutes. Fans are turned OFF when no dimmers are in
use.
Each EC21 dimmer rack contains a rack processor housing (RPH). This
housing contains the rack processor module(s), power supplies, and control
interconnection card (CIC) for the rack, and is shipped separately from the rack
to minimize the possibility of damage.
This chassis can be equipped with one or two rack processor modules (RPM).
The second processor module acts as a backup to the main processor. The
configuration data from either processor is transferred into the other processor
automatically. The currently inactive processor always tracks the currently
active processor.
Figure 2 – Rack Processor Housing (RPH)
Rack Processor Housing
(RPH)
Optional Ethernet Switch
Main Power Supply
Optional
Power Supplies
Power Supply
Plug In Connector
Optional Back-Up
Rack Processor Module
Main Power Supply
Rack Processor Module
Rack Processor Housing
Optional
Power Supplies
CIC
CIC Lighthouse Beacon

4
Each EC21 rack contains one or two rack processor modules (RPM). The rack
processor module is available in two variations: 96 outputs and 144 outputs.
Each rack processor module has an LCD display, keypad, and LEDs to report
processor module and dimmer status and allow simple setup and control at the
rack. If there are any rack or dimmer events reported, the display will show
error messages.
Pressing the > key takes you into a series of setup menus to view and set up
the more frequently used EC21 features. See the Operator’s Manual for details
on accessing these functions.
All program data is held in non-volatile RAM within the rack processor module.
Figure 3 – Rack Processor Module (RPM)
Rack Processor Module
(RPM)

Section 1 - Hardware Description 5
The Control Interconnection Card, or CIC, is the printed circuit board on which
all contractor control wiring connections are made. It is located on the top of
the Rack Processor Housing (RPH) and contains:
•An optional Ethernet switch, which connects to a Strand ShowNet system
and is ACN (Architecture for Control Network) ready. This switch allows
for easy connections between dimmer racks. It also connects to the
network receptacle located in the upper left rear of the dimmer rack.
•Two optically isolated DMX512 control inputs. The first input will accept
DMX512. The second DMX512 input is configurable to accept either
DMX512, Strand Lighting’s System Wide Control (SWC) dimmer protocol
or Strand Lighting’s Outlook architectural protocol. Each DMX input has a
patch to allow overlapping or separation of any DMX control level.
•Six optically isolated contact inputs, for:
Pin Function Type Description
1 PANIC ON Momentary Turns Panic On
2 PANIC OFF Momentary Turns Panic Off
3 FIRE ALARM Maintained Turns Panic On, No Override
4 SWC PRESET 1 Momentary Fires SWC Preset 1
5 GO NEXT SWC Momentary Fires “Next” SWC Preset
6 GO SWC OFF Momentary Fires SWC Preset 0 (Blackout)
7 Com/Gnd Com/Gnd
8 Com/Gnd Com/Gnd
•An Audio Visual Interface port. This serial input will support connection to
an external A/V or show control system that supports an RS232 serial
connection.
•96 or 144 panic select switches
Figure 4 – Control Interconnection Card (CIC)
Control Interconnection
Card
Rack Processor Module
Plug-In Connector Fan Cable
Connector
Dimmer Control
Ribbon Connectors
(T1 – T6 & B1 – B6)
Panic Select Switches
(96 or 144 Switches)
Control Input
Connectors
Power Supply
Plug-In Connectors

6
The power modules are the high power switching section of the EC21 dimming
system. The power block in this module is the interface between the high
power AC and low power control. It is driven by low level signals (5mA, 3-24V)
and switches high level signals (up to 50A, 240VAC). High specification
filtering, thyrisor dimming, contactor non-dims, Sinewave dimming, and load
status reporting electronics are available as options. Dimmers can be mixed in
any combination in a rack. This lets you use the exact dimmer type needed for
each circuit.
Quad dimming modules are also available in custom racks.
Power modules are constructed from aluminum, folded to form three sides of
the dimmer and to support the dimmer connector and heatsink. The fourth side
of the dimmer is formed by the heatsink. The top and bottom of the dimmer are
open for cooling.
A sturdy handle is provided below the circuit breakers.
An optional locking bar on the dimmer tray secures the dimmers in the rack.
Figure 5 – Dual Dimmer Module
Most EC21 dimmer modules are available in load status reporting versions.
Load status reporting versions of dimmers can be mixed in any combination
with standard dimmers in EC21 racks. These dimmers report many dimmer
status items back to the processor. The information can be accessed through
various menu items. The processor can then display a wide range of faults and
diagnostic data.
Each Reporting dimmer module contains a temperature sensor which will shut
it down if it overheats. Anything causing overheating in the rack will cause a
gradual shutdown as each Reporting dimmer module overheats.
Dimmer Modules
Reporting Dimmer
Modules
Connecto
r
Reporting PCB
(optional)
Thyristor Pac
k
Chokes
Circuit Breakers
Dimmer Wing
With Type & Rating
Handle
Chassis

Section 2 - Installation 7
Section 2 - Installation
Before installing your EC21 rack, you should carefully consider the
environment in which the equipment is to be installed, the power feeding the
equipment and the required conduit and/or cable runs.
To maximize equipment life and minimize the chance of failures, the following
environmental requirements should be met:
•Operating temperature: 0 to 40°C ambient
•Operating humidity: 5%-95% non-condensing
•Storage temperature: -40°C to 70°C
•Storage humidity: 0% to 95% non-condensing
•Shock resistance in transit without damage: 40G 10mS in any of the X, Y,
Z planes.
Dimmer rack efficiency is at least 97% with standard modules. Since the
remainder of the energy is dissipated as heat, racks should be installed
in a room with adequate ventilation to dissipate a heat load equivalent to
at least 3% of the maximum load the dimmer racks will handle
Electrical equipment must not be used in close proximity to flammable
materials.
This equipment is for indoor use only
AC Lighting Loads Only!
The short circuit rating for this product is 50,000 AIC. Provisions can be
made for optional amp trap devices to provide 100,000 AIC fault current
protection, if required.
Fan and filter choke noise emissions at some levels may be
objectionable, therefore racks should be installed away from stage and
audience areas.
Do not obstruct the ventilation at the front of the dimmer rack
A 90 to 264VAC, 3-phase, 4-wire plus earth, 47 to 63Hz power source must be
provided for processor assembly power. Processor assemblies operate on
any power source in the listed range, but the power source must be correct for
the dimmers used in the system. Dimmers are available in 120V and 230VAC
models. Racks are available in three-phase, single-phase and three phase
three-wire delta configurations. Please consult Strand Lighting on the actual
main feed size required for specific installations.
Strand Lighting recommends that the dimmer rack power be a separate feed
and that no other equipment share the feed. Because phase control dimmers
impose high 3rd harmonics loads on the supply the supply transformer
impedance should not exceed 5%.
Dimmer racks fully populated with Sinewave modules impose no additional
harmonic loading on the supply, therefore this recommendation is inapplicable.
Do not install this equipment with power applied.
Make sure that incoming power is disconnected before proceeding with
the installation.
Environmental
Considerations
Warning
Warning
Warning

8
The location of conduit runs and their entrance to the dimmer rack is important
and should be carefully planned before cutting holes or attaching conduit.
Figure 6 – Recommended Conduit Cutouts
(Top of Rack)
Do not run power feed or load wires in the same conduit or wireways as
control and low voltage wiring.
Do not run load cable trays and/or conduit in close proximity to any computer
or computer equipment.
Do not run wiring from other unrelated equipment in the same conduit with
EC21 wiring.
Do not run control wires from dimmer rack locations marked for load or power
wires, and vice versa. These locations are chosen to minimize electrical
interference between various sections of the system.
Do not run wiring in ways other than shown on the system riser diagram or
use alternative control cables to those specified by Strand Lighting.
Do not substitute plastic conduit for metal conduit. Metal conduit acts as a
ground and shield.
Do not substitute shielded wiring for unshielded wiring or conduit. Changes in
transmission line capacitance can cause problems with the control signals.
Conduit Layout
Control Wires
Entry Area
Main Feed Wire
Entry Area
Top Of Frame
Cover Panel
Load Wire
Entry Area

Section 2 - Installation 9
Fan and choke noise may be objectionable if the racks are installed close to
audience or performance areas. The racks are best installed in a dedicated
plant room remotely located from the stage, audience, and acoustically "live"
positions of the performance area.
Attach the racks to a sturdy wall and to the floor. Mounting holes are provided
for this purpose, and are positioned as shown in Figure 7. Racks may be
placed in a "back-to back" configuration if they are attached securely to the
floor.
Figure 7 – Mounting Dimensions
The dimmer rack must be placed on a non-combustible floor.
Installing the dimmer rack on a low concrete pad (or housekeeping pad)
added on top of the floor is recommended to keep the dimmer rack clear
of incidental water or accidental flooding.
Positioning the
Dimmer Rack(s)
Note
2032mm
618.74mm
1955mm
Rear Panel
Frame Rear Panel
Bottom Frame
Top Frame Leg Support
(Cut For Clarity)
Both Sides
618.74mm
337.19mm 160.66mm
Main Feed Entry Area
101.60mm
600mm
Top Of Frame
Cover Panel
Load Wires
Entry Area
Control Wires
Entry Area
177.85mm
63.53mm
Top View

10
Allow adequate clearance at the front of the dimmer racks for them to be
opened for wiring purposes and safe servicing. Required clearances are
shown in Figure 8.
Figure 8 – Clearances
The EC21 rack is supplied without the door installed. The dimmer modules
and rack processor housing are supplied separately. In order to gain full
access to the rack, you must:
1. Remove the top and bottom grills.
2. Remove the thermostat bar.
Be careful not to damage the thermostat. A damaged or broken
thermostat will render the dimmer rack inoperable.
3. Remove the eight dimmer trays.
4. Remove the fan housing.
Do not remove the door from its carton.
Do not install the dimmer rack door.
This will be installed by a Strand Lighting Engineer or an Authorized
Service Center Technician as part of the system commissioning.
If the dimmer rack is to be installed without a factory commissioning,
then the Electrical Contractor shall install the door at the completion
of their works.
Preparing the
Rack for Wiring
654.05mm
1232.66mm
Door Closed Door Open 90º
618.74mm 618.74mm

Section 2 - Installation 11
Figure 9 – EC21 Dimmer Rack
(Door Removed for clarity)
Locating Dimmer
Components
Ventilation Grill
Dimmer Modules
Door Strike
Fan Housing
Rack Processo
r
Module
Blank Panel
Hinge Bracket
Backup Processor
Module (Optional)
Rack Processor
Housing

12
Power feed wiring enters the top right back of the dimmer rack only. The figure
below shows a typical top fed rack. The phase, neutral and earth power
cables enter the rack through the top. All power cables are terminated using a
suitable-rated compression lug (see Figure 11 below) and bolted to the mains
bus bars.
Power Wiring
Load Wires By Installer:
Run All Load Cables
Behind Channel Supports
Control Wire
By Installe
r
Power Feed By Installer
3 Phase 4 Wire + Ground,
230/480V, Top-Side Right
Entry Only Earth Bus
Earth Lug Position.
L3 Incoming Linked
Bus assembly – See
Top Feed Notes
L2 Incoming Linked
Bus assembly – See
Top Feed Notes
L1 Incoming Linked
Bus assembly – See
Top Feed Notes
Route Control Wires in
Trough Down Left Side
Of Dimmer Rac
k
Load Terminal Blocks
Ethernet Jac
k
Neutral Bus
Thermostat
Figure 10 – Bus Bar Connections Behind Processor Assembly
(Top entry shown)