What are the best tools and resources for learning and staying updated on lighting control systems?

1 Online courses

One of the most effective ways to learn and refresh your knowledge on lighting control systems is to enroll in online courses that cover the fundamentals, design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of various types of systems. There are many platforms that offer courses on lighting control systems, such as Udemy, Coursera, edX, and Lutron. Some of these courses are free, while others require a fee or a subscription. Online courses can help you gain theoretical and practical skills, as well as earn certificates or credits that can boost your resume and credibility.

2 Webinars and podcasts

Another way to stay updated on lighting control systems is to watch webinars and listen to podcasts that feature experts, case studies, trends, and innovations in the field. Webinars and podcasts can provide you with valuable insights, tips, and recommendations that can improve your understanding and performance. Some of the webinars and podcasts that focus on lighting control systems are Lighting Controls Association, Lighting Design Lab, Inside Lighting, and Get a Grip on Lighting. You can find them on various websites, YouTube channels, or podcast apps.

3 Books and magazines

If you prefer to learn from books and magazines, there are plenty of options that can help you master lighting control systems. Books can offer you comprehensive and in-depth information on the concepts, principles, methods, and applications of lighting control systems. Some of the books that are recommended by lighting professionals are Lighting Control Technology and Applications by Robert S. Simpson, Handbook of Lighting Design by Rüdiger Ganslandt and Harald Hofmann, and Lighting Controls Handbook by Craig DiLouie. Magazines can keep you informed of the latest news, products, projects, and events in the lighting industry. Some of the magazines that cover lighting control systems are LD+A, Lighting&Sound America, LEDs Magazine, and Architectural Lighting.

4 Blogs and newsletters

If you want to learn from blogs and newsletters, there are many sources that can provide you with useful and relevant content on lighting control systems. Blogs and newsletters can offer you short and concise articles, reviews, guides, and tips that can help you solve problems, learn new skills, and discover new opportunities. Some of the blogs and newsletters that focus on lighting control systems are Lighting Controls Association Blog, Lutron Blog, Enlighted Blog, and LightNOW.

5 Forums and communities

If you want to learn from forums and communities, there are many platforms that can connect you with other lighting professionals, enthusiasts, and learners who can share their knowledge, experience, and feedback on lighting control systems. Forums and communities can offer you a space to ask questions, answer queries, join discussions, and exchange ideas on lighting control systems. Some of the forums and communities that concentrate on lighting control systems are Reddit r/lightingdesign, Stack Exchange Lighting, ControlBooth, and Lighting Network.

6 Online tools and calculators

Finally, if you want to learn from online tools and calculators, there are many websites and apps that can help you design, simulate, evaluate, and optimize lighting control systems. Online tools and calculators can offer you interactive and visual features that can assist you in creating and testing lighting scenarios, estimating energy savings, comparing products, and complying with codes and standards. Some of the online tools and calculators that focus on lighting control systems are Visual Lighting Software, Dialux, Wattstopper Energy Calculator, and Lutron Energi Advisor.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?