Astronomical Timer: Working Principle, Applications, Basics

The astronomical timer is a unique device. If you are not an experienced engineer maybe you do not know anything about it. Below I will briefly explain its function, working principle and applications.

Let’s start with its definition.

What is an Astronomical Timer?

The astronomical timer is a device that automatically switches loads according to a preset weekly schedule with up-to-the-minute accuracy. The astronomic feature provides sunset ON and sunrise OFF settings to eliminate the need for separate photo control devices. It is mainly used for street light control.

The timer operates all year round without the need for continuous maintenance, with minimum operating costs and maximum savings of electrical energy. Appliances can be controlled in regular time cycles or based on a pre-set program. The astronomical timer does not include any optical sensors or other external equipment. After installation, it requires no special operation or maintenance.

How Does an Astronomical Timer Work?

The operation of the astronomical timer is based on variations in the sunset and sunrise times throughout the year. Based on the current date (internal real-time clock), it automatically modifies the times for turning on or off e.g. public lighting. Time updates are resolved automatically for every day of the year.

The astronomical timer reduces the amount of manual adjustment needed and by making adjustments in a timely fashion, minimizes unnecessary use.

Atmospheric pollution is one of the causes of reductions in the level of environmental light. Dust deposits on the external probe of a traditional twilight switch can compromise the operation of the device preventing it from automatically switching off the controlled lighting system in the presence of external light. This problem can be resolved by installing an astronomical timer that controls the lighting system according to sunrise and sunset times.

Astronomic Timer Applications

The astronomical timer is an ideal control choice for both outdoor and indoor lighting as well as spas. The astronomic clock function saves energy by automatically making daily adjustments to on- and off-times as the days become longer or shorter, so lighting is only turned on when it is needed. Both the astronomic and scheduling functions provide security by automatically turning the lighting on to make the application feel inviting and provide a live-in look.

Other applications:

• Street light control
• HVAC
• Heating/ventilation equipment
• Pumps
• Fans
• Livestock feeders
• Poultry equipment