Atime switch (also called atimer switch, or simplytimer) is a device that operates anelectricswitch controlled by atimer.
Intermatic introduced its first time switch in 1945, which was used for "electric signs, store window lighting, apartment hall lights, stokers, and oil and gas burners." A consumer version was added in 1952.[1]
The switch may be connected to anelectric circuit operating frommains power, including via arelay orcontactor; orlow voltage, includingbattery-operated equipment invehicles. It may be built into power circuits (as with acentral heating orwater heater timer), plugged into awall outlet with equipment plugged into the timer instead of directly into the power point; or built into equipment.
Asleep timer is a function on many moderntelevisions and other electronic devices that shuts off the power after a preset amount of time. The setting is usually made either from theremote control of the device or the device's menu. They are intended to allow viewers to watch as they fall asleep.
The mechanism may be mechanical (e.g.,clockwork; rarely used nowadays),electromechanical (e.g., a slowly rotating geared motor that mechanically operates switches) orelectronic, withsemiconductor timing circuitry and switching devices and no moving parts.
The timer may switch equipment on, off, or both, at a preset time or times, after a preset interval, or cyclically. Acountdown time switch switches power, usually off, after a preset time. A cyclical timer switches equipment both on and off at preset times over a period, then repeats the cycle; the period is usually 24 hours or 7 days.
For example, a central heating timer may supply heat for a specified period during the morning and evening every weekday, and all day on weekends. A timer for an unattendedslow cooker may switch on automatically at a time and for a period suitable to have food ready atmealtime. Likewise, acoffee maker may turn itself on early in themorning in time for awakening residents to have freshcoffee already brewed for them.
Timers may do other processing or have sensors; for example, a timer may switch on lights only during hours of darkness, using aseasonalalgorithm[2] orlight sensor. Combining the two allows a light to come on at sundown and go off at midnight, for example.
Anastronomical (orastronomic)timer calculatesdawn anddusk times (tracking thesun position) for each day of the year based on thelatitude andlongitude (or just north/central/south andtime zone on more cheaply made ones), and theday of the year (month and date), programmed by the user upon installation in addition to the usualtime of day, except in the case of GPS enabled astronomic timers wherein all programming is fully automatic. This eliminates the need for aphotocell (which may be repeatedly triggered on and off by the light which it operates) or for repeatedly re-setting a regular timer for seasonal changes in thelength of day or fordaylight-saving time. This allows exteriorlighting like aporchlight fixture to be controlled by simply replacing its indoor wall switch, or doing the same for alamp in a dark interior corner (away from awindow) by simply plugging-in a self-adjusting lamp timer.
Time switches can be used for many purposes, including savingelectric energy by consuming it only when required, switching equipment on, off, or both at times required by some process, andhome security (for example switching lights in a pattern that gives the impression that premises are attended) to reduce the likelihood ofburglary orprowling.
Among applications arelighting (interior, exterior, andstreet lighting), cooking devices such asovens,washing machines, andheating and cooling of buildings and vehicles.[3] Built-in automatic washing machine controllers are examples of very complexelectromechanical and electronic timers cycles, starting and stopping many processes includingpumps andvalves to fill and empty the drum with water, heating, and rotating at different speeds, with different combinations of settings for different fabrics.
A digital timer switch, also known as an electronic timer switch, seamlessly integrates semiconductor components for precise timing and a digital display format to present timing information in a user-friendly manner. Typically presented as a display panel or digital readout timer, this device offers high programmability, empowering users to customize timing sequences according to their specific needs.
Thescope of applications for digital timer switches is broad and impactful. From controlling lighting systems to overseeing the operations of various electronic and electrical devices, these devices serve as versatile automation tools.
The advantages of using digital timer switches are noteworthy. The ability to automate tasks translates to increased efficiency and convenience, liberating users from repetitive actions such as toggling switches or adjusting timers. Notably, these devices promote energy conservation by allowingscheduled operations, thereby minimizing unnecessary power consumption.
In essence, digital timer switches are essential components in modern automation and control systems. By seamlessly blending accurate timing with user-friendly digital displays, they play a pivotal role in enhancing various facets of daily life.
An IoT-enabled time switch is a smart device that allows users to control and automate the operation of electrical appliances or systems based on a predefined schedule. This technology combines the functionality of a traditional time switch with the connectivity and intelligence of the Internet of Things (IoT).
At the core of an IoT-enabled time switch is a microcontroller or microprocessor that manages the scheduling and control of the connected devices. The time switch is connected to a local network or the internet via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or other wireless communication protocols like Zigbee or Z-Wave. This connectivity enables the time switch to be controlled and monitored remotely through a smartphone app or web interface.
The time switch can be programmed to turn on or off a connected device at specific times or according to a set schedule. For example, a user could program the time switch to turn on the lights at a certain time in the morning and turn them off at night, or to activate a heating system at a specific time before the user arrives home from work.
Some advanced features of IoT-enabled time switches include the ability to monitor energy consumption, adjust schedules based on local weather conditions, and integrate with other smart home devices like smart speakers or home security systems. These features allow users to optimize their energy usage, increase comfort, and enhance the overall security of their homes.
In summary, anIoT-enabled time switch is a smart device that combines the functionality of a traditional time switch with the connectivity and intelligence of the Internet of Things, allowing users to control and automate the operation of electrical appliances or systems based on a predefined schedule.
