Upgrade Options...

ZoneZ-LT (Lite). The ZoneZ Lite is the simplest choice for upgrading an existing Touch-plate system. The Lite version was created to provide a cost-effective means to upgrade. It will upgrade the existing system but keep the same functionality and features. Generally speaking, ZoneZ-LT will bring a system into current, supportable technology of the 21st century, yet it will not include any unwanted “bells and whistles” for a basic upgrade. Of course, major benefits will be assumed for all upgrades, which include ease in wiring, manageability, and reliability; but grouping control, timing, and dimming are not included with ZoneZ-LT. The extra feature included with ZoneZ-LT is “Master On” and “Master Off” functions to allow for superior lighting control. ZoneZ-LT models offer an even smaller mechanical footprint on the low voltage side of the enclosure, which expands the number of old installations where the existing enclosures can be used.

ZoneZ-LT-N. The ZoneZ-LT-N low voltage control board includes controls for 6 relays. No LED control is included. This board can be joined in conjunction with Z-69 and Z-71 relay boards which are 10 amp and 20 amp boards respectively.

ZoneZ-LT-L. The ZoneZ-LT-L low voltage control board includes controls for 6 relays and 6 LEDs. This board can be joined in conjunction with Z-69 and Z-71 relay boards which are 10 amp and 20 amp boards respectively.

ZoneZ-S. The ZoneZ-S upgrade option is superior in functionality than ZoneZ-LT. The greater nature is that ZoneZ-S will allow for Scene/Group control. Relays can be programmed into groups for easier and more efficient control. For example, pushing just one button can activate a scene such as “Welcome Home” or “Goodbye” and turn some lights ON and others OFF. Automatic OFF times are also an option in the Scene control. Another option offered is Maintained contact closures. On the other hand, ZoneZ-LT offers no relay programming and no additional Input types.

ZoneZ-N. The ZoneZ-N low voltage control board is similar in function and design to the ZoneZ-S but with the addition of an RS-485 serial port. This port allows for communication with Touch-plate’s Time-Keeper®. Choosing a Time-Keeper® level upgrade allows the entire system to become a cohesive network, allowing any switch from any location to control any light or group of lights in the home. Time-based Events, Scenes, and Sequences are now a standard for all lighting loads in the system. If a system is desired to integrate with the Time-Keeper® controller, ZoneZ-N boards are required. If there is any possibility of adding Time-Keeper® in the future, ZoneZ-N boards must be used.

ZoneZ-D. Dimming is another wonderful feature offered with ZoneZ. ZoneZ-D panels can be either stand-alone units or part of a networked Time-Keeper® system. ZoneZ dimmers use 2-channel dimming modules, with a 1000 watt maximum output across both dimming channels. Dimming is very different than relay switching and requires more items to be programmable, such as the dimmed level and the fade time. The ZoneZ dimming panels require a new enclosure as they simply will not fit into existing enclosures. A 6 channel dimming panel is 12 inches Wide by 18 inches in Height. ZoneZ-D has a very intuitive, simple to use Interface to assign all the Scene functions.

Time-Keeper®. Time-Keeper® is the full function lighting control system: it gives global control to all relays and dimmers in the system. Time-Keeper® allows for programmable timed events, scenes, sequences, and holiday schedules. Time-Keeper® also adds several options for expanding your control station capability. Time-Keeper® has a dedicated digital smart switch network, allowing for control stations to be wired in a single networked run (often referred to as “daisy-chained”). Touch-plate has created another new product that is compatible with Time-Keeper®: 2-Wire, Non-Polarized, Topology Free control stations. The new 2W-NPTF control stations allow for any existing Touch-plate switch to be converted to 6 buttons and 6 LEDs, all operating over 2 wires. An existing 2 button, 2-gang control station could be converted to either 8 buttons and 8 LEDs or 12 buttons and 12 LEDs! The other control station expansion option is the addition of Radio Frequency based switches. If there is no reasonable way to have wires back to the relay/dimmer panel areas, then RF communication bi-directionally is the solution. Time-Keeper® also has full dimming control capability.

As always, feel free to contact us with any questions.