Lighting for Data Centres
Data centres are among the most sensitive infrastructures of our time and place the highest demands on every detail of their technical equipment. Lighting plays a central role in this context: it not only supports safety and orientation, but also optimises maintenance processes and makes a significant contribution to the performance of operating personnel.
Whether in highly sensitive technical areas, central control and working environments, circulation areas or outdoor spaces – a holistically planned lighting system provides the foundation for smooth and safe operation throughout the entire data centre. A consistent and reliable lighting concept is crucial, seamlessly connecting all areas and tailoring illumination to their specific requirements.
RIDI stands for exceptionally reliable and durable lighting solutions, specifically developed for the demanding conditions of continuous operation in data centres. As a holistic partner, RIDI supports projects from initial planning through to implementation and ongoing operation, providing all components from a single source. The result is integrated, future-proof solutions that ensure maximum operational reliability.
Data Halls – Requirements and Standards
- Controllable lighting for different operating states (normal operation, maintenance)
- High uniformity of lighting for safe orientation between racks and aisles
- Prevention of glare and reflections on shiny surfaces (e.g. cabinet fronts, displays)
- Vertical lighting for clear recognition of labels and connections on server racks
- Reliable operation even at elevated ambient temperatures up to 55 °C
- Illuminance up to 500 lx during maintenance, with adjustable dimming for lower illuminance levels during normal operation
- High colour rendering (Ra ≥ 80) for precise visual inspection of cabling and component
- Optional emergency lighting function in accordance with EN1838 and BS5266-1 for safe evacuation in case of emergency
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Continuous operation 24 / 7 | Durable luminaires with minimal maintenance |
| Operational reliability & environmental influences | Temperature resistant up to 55 °C, IP54, emergency lighting capable |
| Visual comfort | High colour rendering index (CRI ≥ 90), optimised glare control (UGR ≤ 19) |
| Energy efficiency | High system efficiency and intelligent lighting control |
| Lighting control & integration into building technology | APCON Unlimited lighting control solution |
| Emergency lighting | Fully integrated emergency lighting solution |
| Sustainability & future-proofing | Energy savings and modular, scalable system architecture |
Product recommendation
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility in case of repurposing.
- The lighting in the aisles between the racks is switched on and off fully automatically depending on presence via the sensor module inserts integrated in the light strip.
- The lighting in the cross aisles in front of the racks is operated semi-automatically. It is switched on via the APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler at the entrances. If the sensor module inserts integrated into the light strip no longer detect any presence and the follow-up time has expired, the lighting is switched off again.
- The follow-up times of the sensor module inserts can be set individually.
- Further functions and data services are possible and are described in detail on page 42.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and connectivity. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
SENSORS
APCON DALI-2 sensor in various designs as a RIDI LINIA EVO module insert, with a large detection field for low planning effort and reliable presence detection.
OPERATING AND CONTROL ELEMENTS
APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler with 4 button inputs for installation box mounting supports switching, dimming and lighting scenes.
Plant Rooms – Requirements and Standards
- ≥ 300 lx in working and circulation areas, including vertical planes
- Clear recognition of equipment, labels and installations
- Luminaires suitable for industrial environments
- Designed for continuous operation and long maintenance intervals
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Safe operation and maintenance of technical systems | Evenly distributed lighting supports safe orientation and handling |
| Clear identification of equipment and installations | Vertical illumination improves visibility of cabinets and components |
| Operation under harsh environmental conditions | Lighting concepts designed for demanding environments ensure reliability |
| Limited access and long maintenance intervals | Durable luminaires reduce maintenance effort and unplanned interventions |
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility.
- The lighting in the plant room is operated semi-automatically. It is switched on via the APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler at the entrance. If the sensor no longer detects any presence and the delay time has expired, the lighting is switched off again. The delay time can be set individually.
- In addition, the lighting can also be controlled and dimmed individually.
- Additional sensors that can act on different luminaire groups are possible.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and connectivity. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
SENSORS
APCON DALI-2 sensor in various designs as a RIDI LINIA EVO module insert, with a large detection field for low planning effort and reliable presence detection.
OPERATING AND CONTROL ELEMENTS
APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler with 4 button inputs for installation box mounting supports switching, dimming and lighting scenes.
Security Rooms – Requirements and Standards
- ≥ 500 lx adapted to monitoring and control tasks
- Continuous screen-based monitoring
- Limitation of glare and reflections on displays, UGR ≤ 19
- Stable, flicker-free lighting for sustained attention
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Continuous monitoring of screens and control systems | Balanced lighting supports clear visibility of displays |
| Sustained concentration over extended periods | Glare-controlled illumination reduces visual strain during monitoring tasks |
| Control of reflections in screen-dominated environments | Directional light distribution minimises reflections on screens and work surfaces |
| Adaptation to varying operational conditions | Adjustable lighting levels support different monitoring scenarios |
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility in case of repurposing.
- The room lighting is switched on and off via the APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler at the entrance. In addition, the lighting can also be dimmed individually.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and connectivity. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
OPERATING AND CONTROL ELEMENTS
APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler with 4 button inputs for installation box mounting supports switching, dimming and lighting scenes.
Control Rooms – Requirements and Standards
- Simultaneous screen-based and desk-related work at ≥ 500 lx
- Permanent 24 / 7 operation with high visual performance requirements
- Controlled luminance and glare reduction, UGR ≤ 19
- Lighting concepts designed to minimise fatigue during long shifts
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Reliable decision-making in mission-critical environments | Stable lighting conditions support accurate perception and confidence |
| Parallel screen-based and desk-related tasks | Targeted illumination balances task areas and ambient light |
| High visual demands during continuous operation | Precise light distribution supports demanding visual tasks |
| Prevention of fatigue during long shifts | Harmonised brightness levels create a calm, ergonomic visual environment |
Product recommendations
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility in case of repurposing.
- The room lighting is switched on and off via the APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler at the inputs. In addition, the lighting can also be dimmed individually.
- Here in the control room, any fault messages relating to the lighting system can also be logged and its operating parameters monitored.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and networkability. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and the DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
OPERATING AND CONTROL ELEMENTS
APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler with 4 button inputs for installation box mounting supports switching, dimming and lighting scenes.
Entrances – Requirements and Standards
- Uniform lighting for safe circulation and wayfinding, ≥ 200 lx
- Avoidance of abrupt brightness transitions between outdoor and indoor areas
- Glare-controlled lighting for arrival and transition zones
- Luminaires suitable for dust, moisture and frequent use
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Safe movement and orientation in transition areas | Uniform lighting supports intuitive wayfinding and circulation |
| Visual adaptation between outdoor and indoor lighting levels | Graduated lighting levels enable safe adaptation between outdoor and indoor areas. |
| Creation of a professional and welcoming first impression | Balanced ceiling illumination enhances spatial clarity and perception |
| Reliable operation under frequent use and environmental exposure | Robust lighting concepts ensure dependable daily operation |
Produktempfehlungen
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility in case of repurposing.
- The lighting in the entrance area can be grouped and each group can be assigned an individual light value, allowing for different lighting scenes.
- The lighting can be switched on via the APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler at the entrances. In addition, it can also be controlled and dimmed individually.
- It is also possible to control the lighting via a higher-level system, such as an access control system via BACnet, RestAPI or MQTT.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and networkability. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and the DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
OPERATING AND CONTROL ELEMENTS
APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler with 4 button inputs for installation box installation supports switching, dimming and lighting scenes.
Offices – Requirements and Standards
- ≥ 500 lx on work surfaces according to EN 12464-1
- Office and administrative work including screen-based workplaces
- Limitation of glare at workplaces, UGR ≤ 19
- Uniform illumination with balanced luminance distribution
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Efficient office and administrative work | Uniform, task-oriented lighting supports focused working conditions |
| Screen-based workplaces | Glare-controlled illumination reduces visual strain at displays |
| High visual comfort throughout the workday | Balanced luminance distribution supports ergonomic working |
| Flexible use of office spaces | Adaptable lighting concepts support changing layouts |
Product recommendations
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility in case of repurposing.
- The lighting in the office is operated semi-automatically. It is switched on via the APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler at the entrance. Once switched on, the luminaires are controlled depending on the amount of daylight. If the sensor no longer detects any presence and the follow-up time has expired, the lighting is switched off again. The follow-up time can be set individually.
- In addition, the lighting can also be controlled and dimmed individually.
- Additional sensors that can act on different luminaire groups are possible.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and networkability. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and the DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
SENSORS
APCON DALI-2 sensor in various designs, with a large detection field for low planning effort and reliable presence detection.
OPERATING AND CONTROL ELEMENTS
APCON UNLIMITED push button coupler with 4 button inputs for installation box mounting supports switching, dimming and lighting scenes.
Corridors – Requirements and Standards
- Uniform lighting for safe circulation and wayfinding, ≥ 100 lx
- Presence- and time-controlled lighting for intermittent use
- Avoidance of glare and abrupt luminance changes
- Luminaires suitable for frequent switching
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Safe movement and orientation | Evenly distributed lighting supports intuitive wayfinding |
| Intermittent use throughout the day | Presence-controlled lighting reduces energy consumption |
| Visual comfort in circulation zones | Smooth luminance transitions prevent disturbing brightness changes |
| Reliable operation | Robust lighting concepts ensure dependable performance |
Product recommendations
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility.
- The lighting in the corridor is switched on and off fully automatically by the sensors depending on presence.
- The follow-up times of the sensors can be adjusted individually.
- Permanent basic lighting at reduced light levels is possible.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and networkability. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and the DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
SENSORS
APCON DALI-2 sensor in various designs as a RIDI LINIA EVO module insert, with a large detection field for low planning effort and reliable presence detection.
Stairwells – Requirements and Standards
- Adequate, glare-controlled illumination of steps and landings, ≥ 150 lx
- Clear visibility of stair edges and level changes
- Presence-controlled lighting with reliable reactivation
- Luminaires suitable for mechanical stress and public access areas
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Safe use of stairways | Glare-controlled lighting ensures clear visibility of steps and landings |
| Prevention of accidents | Uniform vertical illumination enhances depth perception |
| Safety-critical intermittent use | Reliable activation through presence detection |
| High mechanical stress | Durable luminaires support long-term operation |
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility.
- The stairwell lighting is switched on and off fully automatically depending on presence via the sensors.
- The follow-up times of the sensors can be set individually.
- Permanent basic lighting at a reduced light value is possible, so that dark areas are avoided and the luminaire assigned to the sensor is fully controlled as soon as the detection area is entered.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with 3 DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and networkability. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and the DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
SENSORS
APCON DALI-2 sensor in various designs, with a large detection field for low planning effort and reliable presence detection.
Restrooms – Requirements and Standards
- Uniform general lighting for safe use, ≥ 200 lx
- Adequate vertical illumination at mirrors
- Luminaires suitable for moisture and cleaning processes
- Presence-controlled lighting for low occupancy periods
Practical example of lighting design
| Requirement | Solution |
| Safe and comfortable use | Uniform general lighting supports clear orientation |
| Adequate facial recognition at mirrors | Vertical illumination enhances visibility in mirror areas |
| Moist and hygienic environments | Lighting concepts designed for humid conditions ensure reliability |
| Low and irregular occupancy | Presence-controlled lighting supports energy-efficient operation |
Planning example APCON light control
- APCON UNLIMITED, cable-based DALI-2 lighting control solution.
- All luminaires and lighting control components are connected to each other via the two-pole DALI bus line and individually addressed for maximum flexibility.
- The lighting in the restrooms is switched on and off fully automatically by the sensors depending on presence.
- The follow-up times of the sensors can be set individually.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
APCON UNLIMITED controllers with three DALI circuits as central intelligence enable full flexibility, functional diversity and networkability. The number of controllers is determined by the size of the system and DALI distribution. Different data centre areas can also be combined on one controller.
SENSORS
APCON DALI-2 sensor in various designs, with a large detection field for low planning effort and reliable presence detection.
Data Centre: RIDI Exterior Lighting Solutions
For more information on our exterior lighting solutions, we ask you to contact your representative for your respective region.
Customers from the UK and Ireland please use the link provided below.
Light and building control system
Combined with lighting solutions from RIDI, the APCON light & building control system provides comprehensive, perfectly coordinated project solutions from a single source.
From intelligent, room-based light control and customised building solutions to industrial control systems for demanding applications, the APCON portfolio covers a wide range of uses.
The APCON light control components and the luminaires they control are interconnectable and intelligent. Appropriate gateways create a future- proof infrastructure for harnessing sensor and luminaire data, making APCON an interface to the internet of things.
Your benefits at a Glance
- Energy savings & CO2 reduction
- Scalable & versatile
- Eligible for grants & perfect for refurbishment
- Comprehensive solutions from a single source
APCON Unlimited – powered by Tridonic SceneComEVO
One system for all areas!
Scalable DALI-2 solution to control, monitor and maintain lighting centrally. Integrated API’s enable to connect lighting into the BMS (building management system).
- APCON UNLIMITED Controller as a single master DALI-2 application controller with 3 DALI circuits for controlling up to 192 luminaires, plus sensors and push button couplers.
- Individual controllers can be linked via Ethernet or BACnet.
- Connection to higher-level systems via BACnet, RestAPI and MQTT Configuration via PC or tablet web browser.
- APCON UNLIMITED Datascreen enables monitoring of the entire lighting system. Data from luminaires and sensors is continuously read out and visualised in a dashboard (energy monitoring – status reports – remote control).
- APCON UNLIMITED Analysis Tool enables long-term monitoring of the entire lighting system. Data from luminaires and sensors is continuously recorded, stored in a cloud and made available for evaluation (usage analyses & optimisation options – heat mapping – effectiveness tests – performance reports – predictive maintenance).
- Depending on the application conditions and functional requirements, presence detection, scene control and schedule control are possible.
RIDI is certified to plan and commision the APCON Unlimited system as a service offering.
Emergency lighting
Fully integrated project solutions for maximum safety
There is a lot to consider when you are designing a central emergency lighting system. Manufacturers of such systems who are highly specialised in the field, such as CEAG / EATON, INOTEC and Gessler, offer the right solution for every application.
For us as a lighting manufacturer, this means integrating emergency lights to illuminate escape routes with so-called monitoring modules from a given manufacturer for the project at hand, especially where the RIDI LINIA EVO continuous-row lighting system is used. These modules communicate with the central emergency lighting system.
The additional designs UR and Z-UR of the LINIA EVO continuous-row lighting system are designed for project-specific equipment like this to enable comprehensive lighting solutions.
RIDI works with professional, specialized manufacturers of emergency lighting such as CEAG / EATON, INOTEC, Gessler, RP Group and GAZ / GSYSTEMS. This enables maximum flexibility within the project.
Dienstleistungen
Expert Support. Every Step of the Way.
From planning to implementation, RIDI provides comprehensive project services with technical precision and personal commitment.
Services
RIDI supports every project phase with dedicated specialists – from the initial concept and detailed planning through to implementation and after-sales support.
As a manufacturer, RIDI guarantees the availability of replacement components and system extensions for up to 10 years.
At your side
Wherever your project takes place – nationally or internationally – RIDI is close by.
Our International Key Account Specialists and local partners offer personal consultation, on-site demonstrations and tailored control solutions to suit your project requirements.
Lighting
With experience from more than 100 data centre projects each year, RIDI brings deep expertise in technical lighting design.
We provide complete lighting layouts, visualisations and installation plans for complex environments.
Lighting Controls
Our certified team designs and configures all levels of lighting control, providing a complete concept from functional planning to commissioning.
RIDI partners with Tridonic SceneCOMevo for lighting control systems.
Emergency, central battery systems
Our planning team coordinates lighting and control layouts with your preferred emergency or central battery system provider, ensuring seamless integration and reliable operation.
Installation packages
RIDI offers subcontracted installation services for luminaire solutions and control systems.
Our in-house specialists also handle commissioning of DALI, SceneCOMevo, BLE systems to ensure optimal functionality and performance.
Sustainability
Sustainability as a consistent part of RIDI’s corporate responsibility.
RIDI pursues a long-term sustainability strategy based on economic, ecological and social values. Guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we continuously improve our processes, products and energy use to achieve measurable progress.
Contact
We would be pleased to advise you personally and develop a tailored plan for your project.
Feel free to contact us directly at: datacentres@ridi.eu
or find a representative near you:
