Architectural lighting

Hi all! We have a 20 year old Unison Legacy system that will soon need replacing. Upgrading to Paradigm will cost us $20K, and if we're going to spend that kind of money I'm wondering if there is another system we should look at. My boss is not crazy about Unison in the first place. We have about 20 button stations throughout our building. Any thoughts appreciated......

Here is something to consider. Paradigm would use the same wire that has been run to the 20 stations. An architectural system from another manufacturer would most likely mean pulling new wire. Also, depending on the requirements of a new system, the layout the station wiring that has worked for Unison might not work for the new system. Paradigm is definitely an improvement over "Oldison".

Mac Hosehead said:

Here is something to consider. Paradigm would use the same wire that has been run to the 20 stations. An architectural system from another manufacturer would most likely mean pulling new wire. Also, depending on the requirements of a new system, the layout the station wiring that has worked for Unison might not work for the new system. Paradigm is definitely an improvement over "Oldison".

Click to expand...

That's what I figured.....but I just wanted to put it out there in case there is some terrific new product that I'm not aware of.

I'm not actually aware of any competing products, but my knowledge about such things can be a little limited.

There are others, Strand, Lightronics, Lehigh, Interactive Technologies... Features vs price is major conversation.

Just out of curiosity, why are you replacing it? Many Oldison systems get a repair at that age, and are good for a lot more. I've also seen new processors run old racks to get the cool features without complete replacement.

I'll just say the I have finally come to sole sourcing lighting systems to ETC because none of the other architectural systems come very close to the functionality and actually working the first tine or near it, and continuing to work for years. Its a sad condition to have only one company that can do it but its reality.

It could be that the configuration was never really thought out, and perhaps a good system designer could understand the objections and sort it out. It would be really interesting to see and hear the complaints. You are only about 3 hours and you do have some great breweries.....

Interactive Technology may be worth looking at. I believe their digital 2-wire system can run over your existing ETC wiring, but the max cable lengths may be different. The only significant drawback I'm aware of with them is that they're not UL listed for emergency lighting use, but if your building uses battery backup lighting that may not be a concern.

If the wire is in conduit, pulling new isn't a big deal.