BSECE 4A/ECE401

Name: San Andres, Jovin W. Date: 10/29/2024

SN: 21-00454 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 designed to modify the brightness of a connected
light source by changing the voltage supplied to the light bulb. Traditional dimmers primarily
control incandescent or halogen bulbs by managing the power through a TRIAC (Triode for
Alternating Current) component, which cuts portions of the AC voltage wave to allow only a
fraction to reach the bulb. This phase-cutting technique enables a spectrum of brightness
levels, ranging from dim to full intensity. Modern dimmers can also be compatible with LEDs
and CFLs, although they often require specific "dimmable" bulbs and circuits to avoid
flickering and inefficiency. Dimmers are valuable for both residential and commercial use,
offering customizable lighting ambiance and energy savings by lowering power consumption.
Typically, they are operated by a potentiometer that adjusts the resistance in the circuit,
thereby altering the output voltage to the light source. Ensuring proper component selection,

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including a fuse for protection and suitable capacitors for smooth operation, is crucial for
creating a safe and functional dimmer circuit.

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

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 2. The Schematic Diagram

V. ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE: (Enumerated Form)

1. Plan Component Placement on PCB: Map out where each component will go on the
PCB, leaving sufficient space for high-voltage components to avoid interference.
2. Place the TRIAC (BT136): Insert the BT136 TRIAC into the PCB in its designated
location, ensuring that MT1, MT2, and Gate terminals are correctly oriented for circuit
connections.
3. Insert the DIAC (DB3): Position the DB3 DIAC in series with the TRIAC gate for
triggering. Check for polarity if required, and place it securely on the PCB.
4. Install the Polyester Capacitor (CBB225J400V): Position the CBb22 capacitor near
the DIAC to provide stability for the dimming circuit. Insert it carefully, making sure it is
seated properly.
5. Mount the Potentiometer: Place the potentiometer in the designated area on the PCB
for adjusting brightness. it in series with the DIAC and TRIAC gate circuit for smooth
dimming control.
6. Attach the Fuse: Place the fuse in series with the live input line to protect the circuit.
Position it securely on the PCB, allowing for easy replacement if needed.

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 7. Install the Switch: Mount the switch in series with the power input to control the
circuit’s on/off state. Position it in an accessible area for safe operation.
8. Connect the LED Light: Attach the LED light in series with the TRIAC load terminal,
ensuring correct polarity for proper function.
9. Wire the Power Plug: Solder the live and neutral wires from the power plug to the
input of the circuit. Use insulating tape or heat shrink tubing to cover any exposed
connections for safety.
10. Solder All Components: Solder each component carefully, avoiding solder bridges
and ensuring firm connections. Pay particular attention to heat-sensitive components
like the TRIAC and DIAC, avoiding prolonged heat application.
11. Trim Excess Leads and Inspect: Trim any excess leads from components to prevent
short circuits. Perform a thorough inspection to ensure there are no loose or shorted
connections.
12. Test the Circuit: Before powering on, check continuity with a multimeter to confirm all
connections are secure and correct. Plug in the circuit and adjust the potentiometer to
test the dimming function of the LED light.

VI. DISCUSSION FOR THE TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR

In assembling my light dimmer circuit, I encountered multiple issues that required

troubleshooting and careful repair to finally achieve a working setup. These attempts taught
me valuable lessons about the importance of checking connections, testing thoroughly, and
taking my time with assembly.

1. First Attempt – Incorrect Wiring:

○ On my first attempt, the circuit didn’t work due to incorrect wiring. I realized that I
had misplaced certain connections, especially with the TRIAC and DIAC, which
were critical to the dimmer’s operation. After double-checking the wiring against
the schematic, I found several errors. I had to disassemble parts of the circuit to
make corrections, which delayed my progress.
2. Second Attempt – Short Circuit During Testing:

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 ○ Once I corrected the wiring, I assembled the circuit again. This time, it worked
initially, but during testing, a short circuit occurred. I suspect this was due to
excess solder that caused unintended contact between nearby leads, especially
where spacing on the PCB was minimal. To address this, I isolated the affected
area, re-soldered connections more carefully, trimmed excess leads, and added
insulation using heat shrink tubing to prevent contact between components.
3. Third Attempt – Successful Configuration:
○ By my third attempt, I was more confident in my approach. I reassembled the
circuit carefully, keeping enough space between leads and paying extra
attention to the soldering quality. Before powering it on, I tested each connection
individually, which helped me catch any potential issues. Finally, the circuit
operated as expected, and I was able to control the light dimming smoothly.

VII. QUESTIONS:

1. Light Dimmer: A light dimmer is an electrical device used to adjust the brightness of a
light. It works by regulating the amount of power delivered to the light source. Dimmers
are significant because they allow users to set the desired lighting level, leading to
energy savings, extended bulb life, and enhanced ambiance. Applications include
residential lighting, stage lighting, and more.
2. Types of Bulbs:
○ Incandescent Bulb: Produces light by heating a filament until it glows. It is less
efficient and has a shorter lifespan compared to other types.
○ Halogen Bulb: A type of incandescent bulb that uses halogen gas to increase
efficiency and lifespan. It produces brighter and whiter light.
○ Standard Fluorescent Bulb: Uses a gas discharge to produce light. It is more
energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs but contains mercury.
○ Dimmable Bulb: A bulb specifically designed to work with dimmer switches.
Both incandescent and LED bulbs can be dimmable, but not all are compatible
with all dimmers.

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 ○ CFL Bulb (Compact Fluorescent Lamp): An energy-efficient alternative to
incandescent bulbs. It uses less energy but takes time to reach full brightness
and can be less compatible with dimmers.
○ LED (Light Emitting Diode): Highly efficient, long-lasting, and can be dimmed
if designed for that purpose. LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient.
3. LED vs. Incandescent Bulb for Light Dimmer:
○ LED Dimmer: Better in terms of energy efficiency and longer lifespan. LEDs
consume less power, generate less heat, and are more environmentally friendly.
○ Incandescent Dimmer: Easier to dim because of its simple resistive nature but
less efficient, producing more heat and consuming more electricity.
4. Applications of Light Dimmers:
○ Residential lighting (living rooms, bedrooms)
○ Stage lighting in theaters
○ Restaurant ambiance
○ Conference rooms
○ Outdoor landscape lighting
5. Recommended Input Fuse Value: To determine the fuse value, use the formula:

6. Possible Causes if the Bulb Will Not Dim:

○ Incompatible bulb type (e.g., non-dimmable CFL or LED)
○ Faulty dimmer switch
○ Incorrect wiring or installation
○ Issues with the control circuit (Triac/Diac malfunction)
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7. Possible Causes if the Bulb Will Not Light:
○ Blown bulb
○ Faulty wiring or connections
○ Fuse blown or switch turned off
○ Dimmer set too low
8. Triac: A semiconductor device that controls AC power. It can switch and control
alternating current by triggering both positive and negative halves of the AC cycle.
Applications include light dimmers, motor speed controllers, and heaters.
9. Diac: A bidirectional semiconductor device that acts as a trigger for the triac. It allows
current to flow only when a certain voltage threshold is reached, ensuring smooth and
controlled switching. Applications include light dimmers, lamp dimmers, and AC motor
controls.
10. Diac and Triac in Light Dimmer: The diac triggers the triac to conduct and pass
current through the bulb. By controlling when the triac is triggered, the dimmer adjusts
how much of the AC cycle powers the light, thus controlling brightness.
11. Potentiometer: A variable resistor used to adjust resistance and control the amount of
power sent to the light. In a dimmer circuit, the potentiometer changes the firing angle
of the triac, controlling the brightness.
12. Possible Defects of Potentiometer:
○ Wear and tear leading to inconsistent resistance
○ Mechanical issues (e.g., loose or broken knob)
○ Internal oxidation causing poor contact
13. Effect of Potentiometer Value on the Bulb:
○ Minimum Value: Maximum brightness (triac fully conducts)
○ Average Value: Moderate brightness
○ Maximum Value: Low brightness or off (triac does not conduct)
14. Importance of Fuse and Switch in Assembly:
○ Fuse: Protects the circuit from overcurrent, preventing damage or fire.
○ Switch: Allows easy control to turn the light dimmer on or off safely.
15. Polyester Capacitor: The CBB225J400V polyester capacitor is used in the light
dimmer circuit. It works by filtering and stabilizing voltage fluctuations in the circuit,

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 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

VIII. DOCUMENTATION: