What is DALI?
DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is an international standard protocol (IEC 62386) for controlling lighting systems. Unlike simple on/off switching or analogue 0–10V dimming, DALI allows individual luminaires to be addressed, grouped, and controlled independently over a two-wire bus.
DALI vs 0-10V vs Triac: Which to Specify?
| Feature | DALI-2 | 0-10V | Triac/Phase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual addressing | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Feedback / status | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| BMS integration | ✓ Native | ○ Via gateway | ✗ Limited |
| Best for | Offices, retail, complex spaces | Simple dimming | Residential |
Key Benefits of DALI-2
- Granular control: Each luminaire has a unique address — dim, switch, or scene-set individual fixtures or groups
- Fault reporting: The system reports lamp and driver failures automatically
- Scene management: Store up to 16 scenes per group for instant recall
- Daylight harvesting: Integrate with photosensors to reduce output when natural light is sufficient
- Occupancy control: Link with PIR sensors to switch or dim zones based on presence
When to Specify DALI
DALI is the right choice when the project requires flexible zoning, BMS integration, energy reporting for BREEAM/LEED/WELL certification, or complex lighting scenes. Always specify DALI-2 certified products for new installations to ensure interoperability.