BSECE 4A/ECE401

Name: Royce Gem, Data H. Date: 10/29/2024

SN: 21-01001 Project No.: 3

PROJECT 3
ASSEMBLY, TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR OF LIGHT DIMMER

I. OBJECTIVES:
At the end of the experiment the students should be able to:
1. to assemble a Light Dimmer
2. iIdentify different components used int the assembly
3. discuss the application of each part used in the assembly
4. identify parts used for safety precaution in the light Dimmer
5. discuss how the Light Dimmer works
6. discuss the steps in troubleshooting and repair of the assembly

II. BASIC INFORMATION: (discuss not less than 100 words)

A light dimmer circuit is an electrical device that adjusts the brightness of a connected light
source by altering the voltage supplied to the light bulb. Traditional dimmers control
incandescent or halogen bulbs by adjusting the amount of power through a TRIAC (Triode for
Alternating Current) component, which effectively cuts portions of the AC voltage wave,
allowing only a fraction to reach the bulb. This phase-cutting process allows for a range of
brightness levels from dim to full power. Modern dimmers can also work with LEDs and CFLs
but may require compatible "dimmable" bulbs and circuits to prevent flickering and
inefficiency. Dimmers are valuable in both residential and commercial applications, providing
customizable ambiance and energy savings by reducing power usage. They are commonly
controlled by a potentiometer, which regulates the resistance in the circuit, adjusting the
output voltage to the light source. Proper component selection, such as a fuse for protection
and compatible capacitors for smooth operation, is essential for building a functional and safe
dimmer circuit.

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III. MATERIALS:

BT136 TRIAC x 1
DB3 DIAC x 1
CBB225J400V polyester capacitor x 1
Potentiometer (for dimmer control) x 500k Ω
Switch x 1
Fuse x 1
LED light bulb x 1
Power plug x 1
PCB x 1
Soldering iron and solder x 1
Wire cutters and strippers x 1
Insulating tape or heat shrink tubing x1

IV. THE DIAGRAM:

1. The Pictorial Diagram

2. The Schematic Diagram

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V. ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE: (Enumerated Form)
1. Gather all listed components and tools: BT136 TRIAC, DB3 DIAC, CBB225J400V
polyester capacitor, 500k Ω potentiometer, switch, fuse, LED light bulb, power plug,
universal PCB, soldering iron, solder, wire cutters and strippers, and insulating tape or
heat shrink tubing.
2. Prepare the universal PCB by deciding on the layout and ensuring that each
component’s position is planned to avoid any overlap or short circuits.
3. Begin by attaching the fuse to protect the circuit. Connect one end of the fuse to the
live (L) wire of the power plug and the other end to the main input section on the PCB.
Insulate the connection with heat shrink tubing or insulating tape.
4. Position the BT136 TRIAC on the PCB and plan the MT1, MT2, and Gate pin locations
carefully. Solder each pin securely, ensuring no two pins are bridged unintentionally.
5. Place the DB3 DIAC on the PCB. Connect one side of the DIAC to the Gate pin of the
TRIAC and the other to one terminal of the potentiometer to manage dimming control.
Solder the connections firmly.
6. Insert the CBB225J400V capacitor across the TRIAC’s MT1 and MT2 pins. This
capacitor will help in stabilizing the circuit and maintaining smooth dimming
functionality. Solder it into place.
7. Mount the 500k Ω potentiometer to the PCB. Connect the remaining terminal of the
potentiometer to the MT1 terminal of the TRIAC to complete the control loop. Ensure
the potentiometer is secure and allows easy adjustment for dimming control.
8. Connect the switch between the neutral (N) wire of the power plug and the input line on
the PCB for easy control of the circuit’s power. Solder the connections and insulate
them if needed.
9. Wire the LED light bulb’s positive and negative terminals to the output section of the
PCB, linking the TRIAC output to the LED bulb. Double-check all connections for
security.
10. Inspect the PCB for any loose connections or potential shorts. Trim excess wire, if
needed, with wire cutters and insulate any exposed wires.
11. Test the circuit by plugging in the power plug and adjusting the potentiometer. The LED
light should dim or brighten based on the potentiometer setting.

VI. DISCUSSION FOR THE TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR

In creating the light dimmer circuit, I had to go through three attempts to achieve a
successful outcome, each building on lessons learned from the previous one. My first attempt
encountered issues due to incorrect components, which emphasized the importance of
verifying each component’s specifications before assembly. Using components with
mismatched ratings or types led to functionality issues, underlining that even minor deviations

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can disrupt circuit performance, especially in sensitive power-control designs like dimmer
circuits.

For my second attempt, I focused on correcting component selection but ran into
challenges with wiring and soldering. Miswiring can easily occur on a universal PCB, where
the absence of preset tracks requires careful planning of connections. Improper soldering,
such as cold solder joints or bridging between terminals, also caused issues. These mistakes
impacted the circuit’s stability and consistency in dimming control, so meticulous attention to
each solder joint was essential. Additionally, checking continuity between points on the PCB
helped me identify and resolve any unintentional shorts or open connections.

Finally, in my third attempt, I succeeded due to improvements in component selection,

careful layout planning, and refined soldering techniques. Throughout each troubleshooting
phase, I learned key considerations for circuit building: the need for accurate components, the
importance of a clear wiring plan, and the impact of clean, precise soldering. This iterative
approach led to a fully functional light dimmer circuit that met project expectations, reinforcing
valuable troubleshooting and repair skills that are essential in electronics engineering.

VII. QUESTIONS:

Sure! Here’s the complete set of questions and answers, numbered for clarity:

1. What is a Light Dimmer? What is its significance and applications?

A light dimmer is an electrical device that adjusts the brightness of a light fixture by
regulating the amount of electrical power delivered to the bulb. By modifying the
voltage or current supplied to the bulb, it allows users to create the desired ambiance,
improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of the light source.
Significance and Applications:
○ Energy Savings: Reducing power consumption leads to lower electricity bills.
○ Extended Bulb Life: Dimming can reduce wear on bulbs, prolonging their
lifespan.
○ Enhanced Comfort: Allows users to create a comfortable atmosphere for
different activities (e.g., reading, watching movies).
○ Control: Users can adjust lighting levels based on their needs or preferences.
Applications:
○ Residential Lighting
○ Commercial Spaces
○ Stage Lighting
○ Architectural Lighting
○ Automated Lighting Systems

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2. Differentiate the following types of bulbs:
a. Incandescent Bulb: Traditional bulbs that produce light by heating a tungsten
filament.
○ Pros: Warm light, good color rendering.
○ Cons: Low energy efficiency, short lifespan.

b. Halogen Bulb: A type of incandescent bulb that uses halogen gas to increase
brightness and longevity.

○ Pros: Brighter than standard incandescent, longer lifespan.

○ Cons: Still not energy-efficient compared to modern options, can get very hot.

c. Standard Fluorescent Bulb: Uses mercury vapor and phosphor to produce light.

○ Pros: More energy-efficient than incandescent, longer lifespan.

○ Cons: Contains hazardous materials (mercury), flickering can occur.

d. Dimmable Bulb: Bulbs designed to be compatible with dimmer switches, often LED
or CFL.

○ Pros: Flexibility in brightness, energy-efficient options available.

○ Cons: Compatibility issues with older dimmer switches.

e. CFL Bulb (Compact Fluorescent Lamp): A smaller fluorescent bulb that fits
standard sockets.

○ Pros: Energy-efficient, long lifespan.

○ Cons: Contains mercury, can take time to warm up to full brightness.

f. LED (Light Emitting Diode): Uses semiconductor technology to produce light.

○ Pros: Extremely energy-efficient, long lifespan, available in various colors.

○ Cons: Initial cost can be higher, but savings over time can offset this.
3. Which is better to use as a light dimmer: a light dimmer using LEDs or a light
dimmer using an Incandescent Bulb? Discuss.
Using LEDs as light dimmers is generally better than using incandescent bulbs due to
several reasons:
○ Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume significantly less power than incandescent
bulbs.
○ Lifespan: LEDs have a much longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of
replacements.
○ Heat Generation: LEDs produce less heat compared to incandescent bulbs,
making them safer and more efficient.
○ Dimming Capability: Many modern LED bulbs are designed to work with
dimmer switches without flickering or buzzing, provided the correct dimmer is
used.
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4. List at least 5 applications of a light dimmer.
○ Residential Lighting
○ Commercial Spaces
○ Stage Lighting
○ Architectural Lighting
○ Automated Lighting Systems
5. What will be the recommended input fuse value for your light dimmer for its
protection? Show solution.
6. What are the possible causes if the bulb will not dim? List it down.
○ Incompatible Bulb: Non-dimmable bulbs or bulbs not rated for dimming.
○ Faulty Dimmer: A malfunctioning dimmer switch can prevent proper dimming.
○ Improper Wiring: Incorrect connections can lead to issues with dimming.
○ Overload: Exceeding the dimmer's rated capacity can cause it to fail.
○ Voltage Fluctuations: Inconsistent voltage supply can affect dimming
performance.
7. What are the possible causes if the bulb will not light?
○ Power Supply Issues: No power reaching the circuit.
○ Burned-Out Bulb: The bulb may need replacing.
○ Faulty Connections: Loose or broken wiring connections.
○ Dimmer Malfunction: A broken dimmer switch can disrupt the circuit.
○ Incorrect Component Ratings: Using components that don't meet specifications.
8. What is Triac? How does it work? List some of its applications.
A TRIAC (Triode for Alternating Current) is a semiconductor device that can control
current flow in both directions when triggered. It is widely used for switching and
controlling AC loads.
How Does It Work?: A TRIAC can be turned on by applying a gate current. Once on,
it continues to conduct until the current drops below a certain threshold (typically when
the AC waveform crosses zero).
Applications:
○ Light dimmers
○ Motor speed controls
○ Heating controls
9. What is Diac? How does it work? List some of its applications.
A DIAC (Diode for Alternating Current) is a semiconductor device that conducts current
only after a certain voltage threshold is reached. It does not conduct in its normal state
until triggered.
How Does It Work?: A DIAC remains off until the voltage across it exceeds a specific
breakover voltage. Once triggered, it conducts until the current falls below a certain
level.
Applications:
○ Triggering TRIACs in dimmers
○ Motor control circuits
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 ○ Overvoltage protection circuits
10. How are Diac and Triac used and function in a light dimmer?
In a light dimmer, the DIAC triggers the TRIAC at a specific voltage, allowing it to
control the AC power delivered to the load. By varying the point at which the DIAC
conducts, the amount of power delivered to the light bulb can be adjusted, thereby
dimming it.
11. What is a potentiometer? How does it work in the light dimmer?
A potentiometer is a three-terminal resistor with a sliding or rotating contact that forms
an adjustable voltage divider. It allows for the adjustment of voltage levels in a circuit.
In a light dimmer, the potentiometer adjusts the gate voltage of the TRIAC or DIAC,
changing the point in the AC cycle where the TRIAC is triggered. This alters the
amount of power delivered to the bulb.
12. What are the possible defects of a potentiometer? List some.
○ Worn Track: Wear and tear can cause irregular resistance changes.
○ Loose Connections: Physical damage can lead to poor connectivity.
○ Calibration Issues: Misalignment can lead to inaccurate adjustments.
○ Corrosion: Environmental factors can affect performance.
13. If the potentiometer is at the minimum value, what is its effect on the bulb? How
about at its average value? How about at its maximum value? Discuss.
○ Minimum Value: The bulb will be off or at its lowest brightness, as the TRIAC
may not be triggered.
○ Average Value: The bulb will dim to a moderate level, as the TRIAC is triggered
partway through the AC cycle.
○ Maximum Value: The bulb will operate at full brightness, as the TRIAC is
triggered immediately, allowing full power through.
14. What is the importance of using a fuse and switch in the assembly?
○ Fuse: Protects the circuit from overcurrent conditions, preventing damage to
components and reducing fire hazards.
○ Switch: Allows for safe control of power to the circuit, enabling users to turn the
dimmer on and off without unplugging it.
15. What type of capacitor was used in your assembly? How does it work in the
circuit? The CBB225J400V polyester capacitor is used in the light dimmer circuit. It
works by filtering and stabilizing voltage fluctuations in the circuit, helping to maintain
consistent performance and reducing noise. The capacitor also aids in smoothing out
the signal, which is essential for the TRIAC's operation in controlling the dimming
function

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VIII. DOCUMENTATION: