TRIAC Light Dimmer

TRIAC Light Dimmer
This little circuit can be used to dim lights up to about 350 watts. It uses a simple, standard TRIAC circuit that, in my expirience, generates very little heat. Please note that this circuit cannot be used with fluorescent lights.


Schematic



Parts
Part
Total Qty.
Description
Substitutions

R1
1
50K Pot


R2
1
15K 1/2W Resistor


C1, C2
2
0.068 250V Capacitor


L1
1
Lamp To Be Controlled (up to 350 watts)


L2
1
Neon Lamp


TR1
1
40502 TRIAC


MISC
1
Case, Knob, Heatsink For TR1, Wire, Socket For L1




Notes
1. This circuit is for 117VAC only. 220 or 240 V will burn up the circuit. L1 can be a maximum of 350 watts.

2. The circuit must be installed and used in a case.