Electrical supply, transformers and controls
The questions to settle before ceilings and partitions are closed.
Can smart film be connected directly to a UK plug or mains supply?
Direct answer: The film itself must not be connected directly to 230V mains. It uses a matched transformer and approved control arrangement. Follow the selected system documentation and use an appropriately competent person for applicable electrical work.
What does the smart film transformer do?
Direct answer: It converts the incoming supply to the electrical output required by the selected PDLC film. It must be sized for the connected area and installed in an accessible, ventilated location within its specification.
What voltage does smart film use?
Direct answer: The exact operating voltage is product-specific. Do not design from a generic number because different films and transformers can differ; use the current data for the quoted system.
How much electricity does smart film use?
Direct answer: PDLC film normally consumes power in the clear state and little or none in the unpowered privacy state. Actual watts per square metre and transformer losses depend on the selected system and connected area.
Can smart film use a normal wall switch?
Direct answer: Yes, a simple wall-switch interface is common when designed with the approved transformer and switching arrangement. The switch should control the intended system interface rather than placing an unsuitable device directly across the film output.
Can smart film use a remote control?
Direct answer: Yes, where the supplied control package includes an approved receiver and remote. Confirm range, zoning, pairing, manual override and what happens after a power interruption.
Can smart film connect to a smart-home system?
Direct answer: Often via a suitable relay or interface controlled by the home-automation system. The designer should keep the automation on the approved control side and preserve the transformer and film electrical requirements.
Can smart film integrate with a building-management system?
Direct answer: Potentially. BMS integration is usually achieved through relays or approved control interfaces. Define zones, feedback needs, default state, isolation and responsibilities with the controls and electrical teams.
Can different panes be controlled separately?
Direct answer: Yes, if the zones, transformer capacity, switching devices and wiring are designed accordingly. Decide the grouping before cutting and cabling so lead positions and controls match the room use.
What happens to smart film in a power cut?
Direct answer: Standard PDLC privacy film returns to the frosted state when power is lost. If a project needs emergency visibility or another fail state, that operational requirement must be addressed in the design.
Where should the transformer be installed?
Direct answer: In an accessible location that meets the manufacturer’s ventilation, environmental and cable-length requirements, such as a suitable ceiling void, cupboard or service area. Do not permanently bury an unserviceable transformer.
Can a transformer make noise?
Direct answer: Some transformers or control components may produce audible noise, especially if poorly selected, loaded or mounted. Positioning and product choice matter in bedrooms, consultation rooms and other quiet spaces.
Who is responsible for electrical certification?
Direct answer: The appointed electrical professional should confirm what work, inspection and documentation apply to the project. The smart-film quote must separate film application from mains electrical and control-system responsibilities.
Can smart film be controlled by a timer or occupancy sensor?
Direct answer: Yes through a compatible control interface, but consider the desired default state, false triggers, room use, energy consumption and safe manual override. The sensor should not bypass the approved power arrangement.
PriviFilm’s UK route
PriviFilm™ is the switchable smart film brand from parent company PriviTechnologies. Forti Nova Ltd is the authorised UK distributor, providing UK supply, project support, professional installation routes and practical installer training.