Kemo M156 Sensor-Based Power Controller 230 V AC, 1 kW – Dimmer for resistive and inductive loads

The Kemo sensor-based power controller (MPN: M156) is an electronic control module for regulating the power of suitable resistive and inductive loads operating at 220–240 V AC. Using an external pushbutton switch or a touch-sensitive sensor contact, the power can be continuously adjusted as well as turned on and off. This makes the module suitable, for example, for dimming incandescent lamps or for controlling the power of compatible electric motors and electromagnets.

Power control via pushbutton or sensor contact

• For suitable resistive and inductive loads with 220–240 V AC
• Current capacity up to 6 A
• Operation via pushbutton or sensor contact
• Stepless power adjustment by holding the switch down
• Brief tap to turn on and off
• The last power setting is retained when the unit is turned off
• Automatic dimming up and down within approximately 5–9 seconds
• Can also be used as a light sensor for suitable lighting applications
• Additional cooling is required for power ratings above 500 W

Stepless control with memory function

When powered on, the supply voltage is initially applied to the module, while the connected load remains off. When the connected pushbutton is pressed or the sensor contact is touched, the M156 continuously increases or decreases the output power. With an incandescent lamp, for example, this corresponds to a slow dimming up or down. When operation is stopped at the desired point, the achieved setting is retained. A brief tap then turns the load off. After another brief press, the previously selected setting is reactivated. The module can thus be used not only for continuous power adjustment but also for convenient on/off control. For suitable lighting applications, the controller can also be used as a light sensor. According to the manufacturer, a complete control cycle from minimum to maximum and back again takes approximately 5–9 seconds.

Phase-cut control for suitable loads

This method controls, within each half-cycle of the AC voltage, how much electrical power is transmitted to the connected load. This allows, for example, the brightness of traditional incandescent bulbs or the power output of suitable motors to be adjusted. The key factor here is the load’s suitability. Resistive loads, as well as electric motors and other inductive loads whose power can be controlled via phase-angle control, may be connected. Not all electrical devices meet this requirement. In particular, energy-saving lamps, light sources with built-in electronics such as electronic halogen transformers, and motors with starting capacitors must not be connected, according to the instructions. For motors, some drives may not start automatically after being dimmed and then switched back on due to the required starting torque.

Sensor or Push-Button Operation

Two connection options are available for operation. In addition to a standard pushbutton switch, a bare metal part—such as a screw with a larger head—can be used as a sensor contact. This must be mounted in an insulated manner and connected to the module’s designated sensor terminal. The connecting wire to the pushbutton or sensor must not exceed 10 cm in length. For longer cable lengths, a shielded cable must be used, and the shield must be connected to the “Phase” terminal on the module. This is necessary because external electric or magnetic fields may interfere with the sensor’s operation. The pushbutton switch or sensor contact is not included in the scope of delivery.

Load Capacity, Cooling, and Installation

The maximum current-carrying capacity of the M156 is 6 A. The maximum connectable load is approximately 1380 W. At the same time, the inrush current of the respective load must be taken into account. For large individual loads, such as a 1,000-W halogen spotlight, the module should therefore not be loaded with more than 1,000 W. During operation, the control module heats up depending on the connected load. It must therefore be mounted in a well-ventilated location. For loads exceeding 500 W, additional cooling is required. To achieve this, the module is attached via its cooling bracket to a well-ventilated, insulated metal part or heat sink measuring at least 100 × 50 × 3 mm. The electrical connection must be made in accordance with the relevant VDE safety regulations. These include, in particular, protection against accidental contact, upstream fusing, and fire protection.

Technical Specifications

• Operating voltage: 220–240 V AC
• Mains frequency: 50–60 Hz
• Maximum current capacity: 6 A
• Connectable loads: suitable resistive and inductive loads rated at 220–240 V AC
• Operation: external pushbutton switch or sensor contact
• Push-button switch/sensor contact: not included
• Regulation time: approx. 5–9 seconds to cycle through one full up and down cycle
• Dimensions: approx. 80 × 56 × 23 mm, without side mounting tabs
• Cooling: Required for loads exceeding 500 W
• Recommended minimum size of the additional heat sink: 100 × 50 × 3 mm
• Maximum cable length to the pushbutton/sensor without shielding: 10 cm
• Weight: 0.1 kg

Package Contents

1x Kemo M156 Sensor Power Controller 230 V AC, 1 kW