Glossary: Product Terms

This glossary provides definitions of many of the specific product terms used on our website. For more general terms, click here.

Switch Terms

Rocker Switch 2-Way	Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Switch rating: 10A 2-Way: For use where there are one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights.
Rocker Switch Intermediate	Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Switch rating: 10A Intermediate: For use where there are three switches for the same light/lighting circuit. An intermediate switch will be used in the middle of the circuit. For example, where there is one switch at the bottom of the stairs, one at the top of the stairs and one at the end of the landing, the intermediate will be the top of the stairs.
Toggle Switch 2-Way	Toggle Switch: On/off switch that is controlled by a lever. Switch rating: 10A 2-Way: For use where there are one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights.
Toggle Switch Intermediate	Toggle Switch: On/off switch that is controlled by a lever. Switch rating: 10A Intermediate: For use where there are three switches for the same light/lighting circuit. An intermediate switch will be used in the middle of the circuit. For example, where there is one switch at the bottom of the stairs,one at the top of the stairs and one at the end of the landing, the intermediate will be the top of the stairs.
Architrave Switch 2-Way	Architrave Switch: Small thin on/off switch that is usually fitted on a door frame or in a narrow space. Comes with either a rocker (rocks when pressed) or a toggle (controlled by a lever). Switch rating: 10A 2-Way: For use where there is one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights.
Push Switch 2-Way	Push Switch: Round button on/off switch that is depressed and clicks into place. The action is the same for on and off. Switch rating: 6A 2-Way: For use where there is one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights.
Momentary Switch	Momentary Switch: Round button push-to-make switch. Depressing the button will make contact and contact will be lost when released. It can be used, for example, to trigger a relay or activate a motor. Switch rating: 6A All momentary switches are one way. Only one switch can be used on each circuit.
Retractive Switch	Retractive Switch: Contact achieved when bottom is depressed and springs back to rest position when released. It can be used, for example, to trigger a relay or activate a motor. Switch rating: 10A All retractive switches are one way. Only one switch can be used on each circuit.
Fan Isolating Switch	Fan Isolator Switch: A wide on/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Marked with on/off and triple pole for safer operation. For use with fans. Switch rating: 10A All fan isolating switches are one way. Only one switch can be used on each circuit.
20A Rocker Switch	20A Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Double pole for safer operation. Comes with or without a neon indicator light. Switch rating: 20A 20A Double Pole switches are one way. Only one switch can be used on each circuit.

Socket Terms

Fused Spur	A connection unit commonly used for electrical appliances, which need to be installed without a plug (e.g. dishwashers, washing machines). Comprises of a 13A fuse holder and are switched or unswitched, with or without a neon indicator.
Flex Outlet	A connection unit commonly used for electrical appliances, which need to be installed without a plug (e.g. dishwashers, washing machines). Comprises of a flex outlet hole for the cable to go through with connection at the back of the plate. Rated up to 16A.
Cooker Switch	A red paddle switch for use with cookers. Seperates the heavy load of a cooker, from other kitchen appliances, for safety and maintenance purposes. Different options are available including cooker panel with socket outlet, with or without neon, vertical twin plate, with or without neon, and single switches. Rated up to 45A (sockets up to 13A).
13A Socket	An electrical socket outlet for use with British Standard three pin plug tops. Available as either single or double sockets. Rated up to 13A.
13A Socket + USB	An electrical socket outlet for use with British Standard three pin plug tops with 2 x USB sockets for use with USB 3.0 and above. Available as either switched or unswitched. Rated up to 13A.
Round Pin Socket	An electrical socket outlet for use with round pin plug tops. There are varying sizes, 2A, 5A and 15A. 2A and 5A sockets are mostly used for lamps on a lighting ring main and are switched with a standard switch so all lamps can be controlled from one location. 15A socket take what is known as the 'Old British Plug' that is still used in some parts of the world.
TV Socket	A data socket outlet for use with different cables used to connect a TV. Types available are male and female coax, isolated or screened return coax and F-type satellite.
Telephone Socket	A data socket outlet used for telephone wiring. Available in master and secondary units. Master is used for where the telephone line enters the property and the secondary units are for any subsequent sockets in the line.
Shaver Socket	A electrical socket for use with two pin plug tops, most commonly found on shavers and other appliances suitable for use in a bathroom. Suitable for use in bathrooms, toilets and shower rooms (IP41). Rated up to 20VA.
DataGrid Plate	DataGrid plates are grid faceplates for use with DataGrid modules. DataGrid modules are for use in data transmission (e.g. TV, RJ45, Telephone etc.). Available in 1,2 and 4-gang plates.

European Terms

Rocker Switch 2-Way	Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Switch rating: 10A 2-Way: For use where there are one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
Rocker Switch Intermediate	Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Switch rating: 10A Intermediate: For use where there are three switches for the same light/lighting circuit. An intermediate switch will be used in the middle of the circuit. For example, where there is one switch at the bottom of the stairs, one at the top of the stairs and one at the end of the landing, the intermediate will be the top of the stairs. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
Toggle Switch 2-Way	Toggle Switch: On/off switch that is controlled by a lever. Switch rating: 10A 2-Way: For use where there are one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
Push Switch 2-Way	Push Switch: Round button on/off switch that is depressed and clicks into place. The action is the same for on and off. Switch rating: 6A 2-Way: For use where there is one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
Momentary Switch	Momentary Switch: Round button push-to-make switch. Depressing the button will make contact and contact will be lost when released. It can be used, for example, to trigger a relay or activate a motor. Switch rating: 6A All momentary switches are one way. Only one switch can be used on each circuit. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
16A Socket (Pin Earth)	An electrical socket outlet for use with two pin European plug tops that incorporate a pin earth. Available as single, double or triple sockets. Rated up to 16A. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
16A Socket (Schuko Earth)	An electrical socket outlet for use with two pin European plug tops that incorporate a schuko earth. Available as single, double or triple sockets. Rated up to 16A. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
Radio/TV Socket (2-Gang)	A data socket outlet for use with coaxial cables used to connect a TV or radio. Different attenuation levels (11dB, 14dB, 18dB and termination) are to be decided on the type of building and number of sockets used in the home/building. For example, a termination socket is used at the end of the line preceded by secondary sockets at increasing attenuation levels. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.
Telephone/Data Socket	A data socket outlet for use with an assortment of registered jack (RJ) connectors. Available in a number of different combinations comprising of RJ12, RJ45 Cat 5e and RJ45 Cat 6. Complete with claws for use in European back boxes.

Dimmer Terms

V-Dim Dimmer	VARILIGHT standard leading edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob. Either rotary controlled - rotate to switch on and dim and all the way back to turn off, or push on/off - push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available in 250W, 400W and 600W. The V-Dim series is designed for use incandescent loads but it can also be used with halogen loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
V-Plus Dimmer	VARILIGHT intelligent leading edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available as 300W, 400W, 500W, 700W, 1000W and 1400W. The V-Plus series is designed for use with halogen loads but is also compatible with incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
V-Plus IR Dimmer	VARILIGHT intelligent leading edge dimmers. Controlled via touch or infrared remote control. Round button with infrared eye in the centre. Single touch to turn on/off and touch and hold to dim. Available as 250W, 400W and 600W. The V-Plus series is designed for use with halogen loads but is also compatible with incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. One-way control only.
V-Pro Dimmer	VARILIGHT silent intelligent trailing edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available as 100W. The V-Pro series is designed for use with LED loads but is also compatible with halogen and incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
V-Pro IR Dimmer	VARILIGHT silent intelligent trailing edge dimmers. Controlled via touch or infrared remote control. Round button with infrared eye in the centre. Single touch to turn on/off and touch and hold to dim. Available as 100W. The V-Pro series is designed for use with LED loads but is also compatible with halogen and incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with a dedicated V-Pro IR slave unit.
V-Pro Multi-Point Dimmer	VARILIGHT silent intelligent trailing edge dimmers. Controlled via tactile touch or infrared remote control. Rectangular button with infrared eye in the centre. Touch anywhere on the pad to turn on/off and press and hold the top to dim up, and the bottom to dim down. Available as 100W. The V-Pro series is designed for use with LED loads but is also compatible with halogen and incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with a dedicated V-Pro Multi-Point slave unit.
V-Com Dimmer	VARILIGHT intelligent leading edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available in 100W, 180W, 220W, 300W, 400W and 600W. The V-Com series is designed for use with LED loads but is also compatible with halogen and incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
1-10V Dimmer	VARILIGHT dimmer suitable for dimmable drivers that require a 1-10V DC input. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch mains power on/off and rotate to control the dimming function of the driver. Suitable for any loads that require 1-10V. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch

Replacement Dimmer Modules

Dimmer module only for use with an existing dimmer plate. Enables you to mix and match dimmers for different loads on the same plate. Please refer to the descriptions about for the types of replacement modules available.

On/Off Only

Dimmer module without dimming function to enable you to use a switching load on the same plate as a dimming load. Looks like a dimmer but only has a switch function. Push to switch on/off. Available as 2-way or intermediate.
2-Way: For use where there is one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights.
Intermediate: For use where there are three switches for the same light/lighting circuit. An intermediate switch will be used in the middle of the circuit. For example, where there is one switch at the bottom of the stairs, one at the top of the stairs and one at the end of the landing, the intermediate will be the top of the stairs.

DataGrid Terms

DataGrid Range	Incorporates a range of data transmission sockets and modules for use in DataGrid faceplates. This allows you to create your own combinations using the variations of modules we have listed below.
Blank Module	Blank module for use in datagrid plates. Available in half, single and double width modules.
BNC Module	A data socket outlet for use with a radio frequency connector for connecting co-axial cable into electrical equipment. Commonly used with commercial video devices and CCTV.
Brush Module	Brushes create a pass through for cables with a safer and better looking finish. Available in 1, 2 or 4 grid space sizes.
HDMI Socket	A data socket outlet for use HDMI cables. Commonly used to connect high definition equipment to a television or similar.
PABX Master	A data socket outlet for use with Ethernet cables. Commonly used to provide multiple internal and external phone lines.
Phono Socket	A data socket outlet for use with A/V jacks. Commonly used to carry audio and video signals. Available as single (white), double (white and red) or triple (white, yellow and red) sockets (all on single size module).
RJ11 Socket	A data socket outlet for use with a registered jack-11 connector. Commonly used in phone networks.
RJ45 Socket	A data socket outlet for use with a registered jack-45 connector. Commonly used in computer networking. Available as Cat 5e or Cat 6 sockets.
Speaker Module	A data socket outlet for use with banana plugs. Commonly used for connection audio equipment to speakers or amplifiers Available as one pair (single module) or two pairs (double module).
S-VGA Module	A data socket for use with VGA connectors. Commonly used for connection to computer monitors, projectors or TVs.
Telephone Socket	A data socket outlet used for telephone wiring. Available in master and secondary units. Master is used for where the telephone line enters the property and the secondary units are for any subsequent sockets in the line.
TV Socket	A data socket outlet for use with coaxial cables used to connect a TV. Types available are male and female coax, isolated or screened return coax and F-type satellite in a number of different configurations.
USB Socket	A data socket outlet for use with USB-A (NO charging capability). Commonly used in computer and TV connectivity.

PowerGrid Terms

PowerGrid Range	Incorporates a range of wiring accessories to create your own switch combinations. Items are made up using a faceplate, frames and the correct number of modules. Allows you flexibility to use dimmers, switches and other wiring accessories you may need in one plate.
PowerGrid Faceplates	Plates to be used on the front of a PowerGrid product. Available in a number of different finishes (see here) and sizes. Sizes available are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9 and 12-gang.
PowerGrid Frames	Frames, often refered to as yokes, are used to mount PowerGrid modules to the wall. Available as 1, 2, 3, and 4 gang and multiple frames are to be used in larger plates.
PowerGrid Modules	Modules are mounted into the frames in order to set up a configuration to your specification. There are a number of different module options as listed below.
2-Way Rocker Switch	Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Switch rating: 10A 2-Way: For use where there is one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights.
Retractive Switch	Retractive Switch: Contact achieved when top or bottom is depressed and springs back to centre rest position when released. It can be used, for example, to trigger a relay or activate a motor. Switch rating: 10A All retractive switches are one way. Only one switch can be used on each circuit.
Intermediate Rocker Switch	Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Switch rating: 10A Intermediate: For use where there are three switches for the same light/lighting circuit. An intermediate switch will be used in the middle of the circuit. For example, where there is one switch at the bottom of the stairs, one at the top of the stairs and one at the end of the landing, the intermediate will be the top of the stairs.
Fuse Holder	A connection unit commonly used for electrical appliances, which need to be installed without a plug (e.g. dishwashers, washing machines). Comprises of a fuse holder and a 13A fuse included. Rated up to 13A.
Flex Outlet	A connection unit commonly used for electrical appliances, which need to be installed without a plug (e.g. dishwashers, washing machines). Comprises of a flex outlet hole for the cable to go through with connections at the back of the module. Rated up to 16A.
20A Switch (Including Key Switches)	20A Rocker Switch: On/off switch that rocks when pressed. One side will be raised while the other is depressed. Available as single pole 2-way or double pole 1-way. Comes with or without a neon and also available as an emergency key switch. Switch rating: 20A 2-Way: For use where there is one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights. 1-Way: can only be switched in one location.
Blanking Insert	Blank module for use in PowerGrid frames where there is an extra space.
Indicator Light	A module with a green, amber or red light as an indicator for whether an electrical appliance is on.
V-Com Dimmer	VARILIGHT intelligent leading edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available in 100W, 180W, 220W, 300W, 400W and 600W. The V-Com series is designed for use with LED loads but is also compatible with halogen and incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
1-10V Dimmer	VARILIGHT dimmer suitable for dimmable drivers that require a 1-10V DC input. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch mains power on/off and rotate to control the dimming function of the driver. Suitable for any loads that require 1-10V. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch
2-Way Push Switch	Dimmer module without dimming function to enable uniformity across all your PowerGrid modules. Looks like a dimmer but only has a switch function. Push to switch on/off. 2-Way: For use where there is one or two switches for the same light/lighting circuit. For example, where there is one switch at each end of a room for the same set of lights.
Intermediate Push Switch	Dimmer module without dimming function to enable uniformity across all your PowerGrid modules. Looks like a dimmer but only has a switch function. Push to switch on/off. Intermediate: For use where there are three switches for the same light/lighting circuit. An intermediate switch will be used in the middle of the circuit. For example, where there is one switch at the bottom of the stairs, one at the top of the stairs and one at the end of the landing, the intermediate will be the top of the stairs.
V-Dim Dimmer	VARILIGHT standard leading edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob. Either rotary controlled - rotate to switch on and dim and all the way back to turn off, or push on/off - push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available as 250W and 400W modules. The V-Dim series is designed for use incandescent loads but it can also be used with halogen loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
V-Plus Dimmer	VARILIGHT intelligent leading edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available as 400W modules. The V-Plus series is designed for use with halogen loads but is also compatible with incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
V-Pro Dimmer	VARILIGHT silent intelligent trailing edge dimmers. Controlled via a dimmer knob, push to switch on/off and rotate to dim. Available as 100W modules. The V-Pro series is designed for use with LED loads but is also compatible with halogen and incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.
V-Pro Multi-Point Dimmer	VARILIGHT silent intelligent trailing edge dimmers. Controlled via tactile touch or infrared remote control. Rectangular button with infrared eye in the centre. Touch anywhere on the pad to turn on/off and press and hold the top to dim up, and the bottom to dim down. Available as 100W. The V-Pro series is designed for use with LED loads but is also compatible with halogen and incandescent loads. For further information on compatibility, click here. Suitable for two-way control with a dedicated V-Pro Multi-Point slave unit.
Modules for MK, GET, Crabtree Grids	VARILIGHT dimmer kit with clips suitable for MK, Schneider (GET) and Crabtree grid systems. Available as V-Com, 1-10V, 2-Way Push, Intermediate Push, V-Dim, V-Plus and V-Pro dimmers. All suitable for two-way control with any standard switch.

Transformer Terms

Dimmable Electronic Transformers	An electronic device to power low voltage lamps. All Varilight transformers are dimmable and can be used with VARILIGHT dimmers. Available as either 50W, 70W, 105W, 150W or 210W (50W and 70W only are suitable for 12V AC LEDs).
230V AC / 12V DC Converter Systems	A device that changes the mains voltage in to 12V DC output to power low voltage LEDs (mainly LED strip). Varilight Converter Systems are dimmable and can be used with VARILIGHT dimmers. Available as 40W or 45W.
Lighting Regulators	Devices used to improve the performance of some LEDs and attempt to rectify some potential LED issues.
12V AC/DC Converters	Devices used to convert voltage from 12V AC to 12V DC to power low voltage LED.

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Glossary: Product Terms

Switch Terms

Rocker Switch 2-Way

Rocker Switch Intermediate

Toggle Switch 2-Way

Toggle Switch Intermediate

Architrave Switch 2-Way

Push Switch 2-Way

Momentary Switch

Retractive Switch

Fan Isolating Switch

20A Rocker Switch

Socket Terms

Fused Spur

Flex Outlet

Cooker Switch

13A Socket

13A Socket + USB

Round Pin Socket

TV Socket

Telephone Socket

Shaver Socket

DataGrid Plate

European Terms

Rocker Switch 2-Way

Rocker Switch Intermediate

Toggle Switch 2-Way

Push Switch 2-Way

Momentary Switch

16A Socket (Pin Earth)

16A Socket (Schuko Earth)

Radio/TV Socket (2-Gang)

Telephone/Data Socket

Dimmer Terms

V-Dim Dimmer

V-Plus Dimmer

V-Plus IR Dimmer

V-Pro Dimmer

V-Pro IR Dimmer

V-Pro Multi-Point Dimmer

V-Com Dimmer

1-10V Dimmer

Replacement Dimmer Modules

On/Off Only

DataGrid Terms

DataGrid Range

Blank Module

BNC Module

Brush Module

HDMI Socket

PABX Master

Phono Socket

RJ11 Socket

RJ45 Socket

Speaker Module

S-VGA Module

Telephone Socket

TV Socket

USB Socket

PowerGrid Terms

PowerGrid Range

PowerGrid Faceplates

PowerGrid Frames

PowerGrid Modules

2-Way Rocker Switch

Retractive Switch

Intermediate Rocker Switch

Fuse Holder

Flex Outlet

20A Switch (Including Key Switches)

Blanking Insert

Indicator Light