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system integration

Integrating Meljac Push Buttons & Switches with Lighting Control Systems

A considered interior demands considered controls.

Here is our guide to understanding our push button and toggle switch keypads and how they integrate with leading control systems such as Crestron, Lutron HomeWorks and Vantage.

WHY USE MELJAC? THE BENEFITS OF CUSTOM CONTROLS

Although each control system manufacturer offers their own native keypads, our clients and partners choose Meljac as the keypad controls for these reasons:
  • Handcrafted Elegance: our hardware boasts exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs that are brought to life by skilled artisans using traditional methods.  The result of this process is apparent the moment you see and feel a Meljac product.
  • Customized Controls: because every Meljac product is designed and crafted for each specific client, we offer an unmatched responsiveness to your aesthetic and control needs.
  • Wide-ranging Integration: designed with compatibility in mind, Meljac push buttons seamlessly connect with leading lighting control systems, simplifying the setup process.
  • Reliable Performance: our push buttons and toggles are mechanical switches made of robust physical parts that do not wear out as quickly as the delicate components found in electronic switches. This simplified design and durable construction ensures long-lasting operation.
  • Maximum Controls / Minimal Space: the compact size of our push buttons and toggles allows you to efficiently combine many controls on a reduced form factor.

SWITCH DETAILS: MELJAC PUSH BUTTON & TOGGLE OPTIONS

Meljac offers several aesthetic variations of dry contact push buttons and toggle switches, UL-listed for low-voltage applications.  (Note that our push buttons and toggle switches are not rated for use with main-voltage electrical lines in North America.)

We use momentary push buttons (normally-open) and toggle switches (2-position / return-to-center) in our keypad controls which allow for a short or sustained signal to be sent to the control system via the system manufacturer’s contact closure interface.  This signal is then programmed to trigger a specific action such as turning lights on or off, setting a preset light level, or cycle dimming through a press and hold.

CONTACT CLOSURE INTEGRATION WITH PANELIZED LIGHTING CONTROLS

Contact closure integration with a panelized lighting control system involves using switches or buttons that close or open a circuit, sending a signal to the control processor.  Since these switches do not carry the load, they offer flexibility in design and placement, making them ideal for customized, user-friendly lighting solutions in sophisticated environments.

For most systems, the contact closure interface is designed to be small enough to fit inside the wallbox of the Meljac keypad.  The interface then connects directly to the system’s communication wire, allowing the project to be wired in the same way it would for the system’s native keypads.

Alternatively, some projects may choose to remotely locate or use panel-based contact closure interfaces.
A diagram showing the wiring of a communication device.

WIRING: MELJAC SWITCHES WITH CONTACT CLOSURE INTERFACES

For projects and systems using wallbox contact closure interfaces, the Meljac push button and toggles connect to color-coded input wire leads plus a shared common wire from the interface.  There can be four to eight input leads depending on the system and manufacturer.  Some manufacturers also offer 24V output wires which can power keypads LEDs for feedback or illumination.

Switch Details:
  • BP: Momentary Push Buttons = 1 contact closure
  • INV: Momentary Toggles (returns-to-center) – 2 contact closures (up + down)
View Wiring Examples:

SYSTEMS COMPATIBLE WITH MELJAC KEYPAD CONTROLS

Meljac switches can work with any system that can accept a dry-contact input.  Here are the systems that we most often work with and their respective integration hardware:

HOW MELJAC KEYPADS PROVIDE DIMMING, SCENE AND SHADE CONTROL

There are a variety of ways to customize control functionality in order to best suit the end-user’s needs and sensibilities when using Meljac keypads with a lighting control or home automation system.

Recommended dimming/control logics for lighting and shade loads, rooms or presets:

BACK BOX REQUIREMENTS FOR MELJAC KEYPADS

When using Meljac keypads it is strongly recommended that you use Meljac back boxes.  

Meljac back boxes have been designed with enough space to allow at least one contact closure interface to sit beneath our push buttons and toggles. For larger plates with more push buttons and toggles, especially those with custom combinations, you should always verify prior to purchasing.

For additional information regarding Meljac back boxes and plate sizes, please visit our back box page.

KEYPAD OPTIONS FOR BACKLIT ENGRAVINGS AND LED FEEDBACK

Meljac offers Classique and Damier collection keypads with either backlit engravings, illuminated buttons or small LED indicators.  In all instances, these are individually wired LED lights that require external 24V power.
Specific system details:
Please note: due to the additional components and technical complexity required for backlit engravings or LED indicators, we are not able to offer these premium add-ons for all projects.  For projects that are using these features, there are additional constraints regarding plate sizes and engravings. It is imperative that projects interested in using these features contact Meljac North America prior to rough-in to ensure that the project needs can be met.

HOW TO PURCHASE MELJAC KEYPADS

Because Meljac keypads must be used as part of a third-party lighting control or home automation system they must be purchased through the
system integrator. This helps ensure a successful project delivery because the integrator is responsible for the programming, installation and
servicing of the control system that includes the Meljac keypad controls.

For project integrators who have not worked with Meljac products before, Meljac North America provides personalized project support. We
understand that working with a new product requires learning and education, and we will always strive to answer any questions, share best
practices and assist with project coordination.

The best projects come from successful preparation and teamwork in the design process. Meljac North America has extensive experience working with design, construction, and integration teams to ensure a smooth design coordination and project integration process. 

Please contact Meljac North America with any design or integration questions.

BACK BOX OVERVIEW

When using Meljac products it is important to consider and plan for the back boxes you will need. On any project, the selection and ordering of back boxes is the first milestone.  

While some of our products are designed to be used with third-party back boxes, in most cases a Meljac back box is required.  In other instances, a Meljac back box is strongly recommended because the larger box opening can accommodate more components and/or provide better spacing. All products and plate sizes that are not 82 x 117 mm require the use of a proprietary back box, which can be purchased directly from Meljac North America. We stock proprietary back boxes, allowing them to be shipped and delivered anywhere in the USA or Canada within 5-7 business days from purchase confirmation. 

If third-party back boxes have already been installed on a project that is using Meljac then plate configurations can be designed with those spatial limitations in mind.

The appropriate back box that is needed will be determined by the plate size that is required, along with the installation conditions. The factors that must be considered are:
  1. Product collection + switch type (keypads) – Differences in internal component dimensions determine how many switches can fit on any given plate size and how they can be arranged: 
    • Ellipse and Solaris collections push buttons and toggles are larger in size than Classique push buttons and toggles.
    • Classique push buttons are smaller than Classique toggles and typically you can fit more push buttons on a plate than toggles
  2. Port types (outlet plates) – in general, power receptacles and charging ports require more plate space than low-voltage ports, and when combining different types of components you may also need to account for dividing low-voltage components from line-voltage components.
  3. Configuration of components on the plate – whether the components can be configured in a single column or arranged in separate columns is related to the plate size and components being used.  As an example, we offer various plate sizes that can accommodate three Classique toggle switches.  However, the plate size will dictate the configurations that are possible or required.  Below are three examples of three different plate sizes and configurations, all with three toggles.
82 x 117 – Triangular Configuration
A three-gang light switch panel with three toggle switches. The panel is a neutral beige color, and each switch is centered horizontally and vertically aligned. The switches are in their default off positions.
117 x 82 – Horizontal Row
A gray rectangular light switch plate with three circular buttons arranged vertically in the center. The plate has a simple design with no text or labels. Each button is slightly raised and silver in color.
82 x 144 – Vertical Row
In the above examples, we can see that a triangular configuration is required to fit three toggles on an 82 x 117 mm (vertical), but when the plate is 117 x 82 (horizontal) it is possible to have a single row of toggles. This difference is due to the internal height dimensions of the toggles. If a column of three toggles is desired then the additional space offered by the 82 x 144 mm plate size and back box is required. 

SCREW TYPES

Meljac plates are available with either visible or hidden screw plate construction. This detail must be specified on all orders.

Visible screw plate construction consists of a single plate finished plate that contains the components and screws directly into the back box.

Hidden screw plate construction utilizes an aluminum mounting plate to contain the components and mount into the back box. The finished cover plate (visible after installation) then snaps into the aluminum mounting plate via plastic fasteners.

Since the aluminum mounting plate is machined according to the specified back box, it is important that your back box type is confirmed at the time of purchase when ordering plates with hidden screws in order to ensure successful installation.
An exploded view diagram of a back box assembly showing the finished cover plate, aluminum mounting plate, snap-in mounting fasteners, and the back box. Each component is labeled and shown in its respective position relative to the complete assembly.
Hidden Screw Plate Assembly – Keypad
Line drawing depicting an exploded view of an electrical junction box assembly. The image shows a back box with various openings for wiring and a finished cover plate with labeled screws to secure it to the box.
Visible Screw Plate Assembly – Keypad
An exploded view diagram of a three-part electrical outlet assembly. The components include a finished cover plate, an aluminum mounting plate with outlets, and a back box. Arrows and labels indicate how each piece connects together using snap-in mounting fasteners.
Hidden Screw Plate Assembly – Wall Outlet

BACK BOX INSTALLATION

NEW CONSTRUCTION

  1. Confirm that the appropriate back box is used for the corresponding Meljac plate size and plate orientation. Meljac back boxes can be mounted in both horizontal and vertical orientations depending on the plate specification. 
    NOTE: For 82 x 82 mm plates, the MELUS8282R ring adapter should always be mounted with the screws in a horizontal orientation. [View Drawing]
  2. Meljac metal back boxes include brackets to attach to wood stud for new construction.

  3. Back box must be mounted at a level position. Most plate constructions do not allow for any leveling adjustment. 
  4. Boxes must never be proud of the finished wall surface.

CUT-IN STYLE FOR EXISTING CONSTRUCTION

KEYPADS

When using Meljac keypads it is strongly recommended that you use Meljac back boxes. We offer both new construction (metal), as well as cut-in style/retrofit (plastic) back boxes for all of our 82 mm width plates. 

For projects where third-party back boxes have already been installed or where the configuration requires the use of standard American gang boxes, plate compatibility and back box specs must be confirmed prior to ordering.  

Below is an overview of the different plate sizes and back box options for standard profile Meljac keypads.

KEYPADS – STANDARD WIDTH (82 mm)

Plate Size (mm)

82 x 82 x 3

82 x 117 x 3

82 x 144 x 3

82 x 207 x 3

82 x 269

Plate Size (inches)

3.2 x 3.2 x .11

3.2 x 4.6 x .11

3.2 x 5.7 x .11

3.2 x 8.1 x .11

3.2 x 10.6 x .11

Metal / New Construction Box

MELUS8282R (Ring Adapter for 4S/1900 Box)

MELUS11782

MELUS14482

MELUS20782

MELUS26982

Plastic / Cut-in Style Box

MEL8080

MELUS11782-FDM

MELUS14482-FDM

MEL20580

MEL26780

CLASSIQUE COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

4

6

8

12

16

Max. Toggles

4

4

8

10

14

DAMIER COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

4

6

8

12

16

ELLIPSE COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

2

4

6

8

12

Max. Toggles

2

4

6

8

12

SOLARIS COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

2

4

6

N/A

N/A

Max. Toggles

2

4

6

N/A

N/A

CRESTNET COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

N/A

6

N/A

N/A

N/A

A table showing the prices of different products.
Notes:
  1. Plate sizes given are for vertical orientation but are also available in a horizontal orientation.
  2. If third-party back boxes are already installed on a project, please refer to the third-party back box section to confirm compatibility
  3. The maximums provided on this table are based on metal back boxes. Plastic cut-in styles will reduce the maximum number switches on 82 x 82 mm and 82 x 144 mm plates.
  4. Due to the rounded corners of the Solaris collection, plate sizes are 84 x 84 mm, 84 x 120 mm, and 84 x 144 mm

KEYPADS / SLIM (38 mm)

For our slim 38 mm (1.5”) keypads we offer a virtual database of 3D printed, new construction back boxes which are made-to-order and can ship within 7-10 business days from purchase. These boxes are by default 90 mm (3.5”) deep in order to provide sufficient space for a contact closure interface.

Masonry style boxes are also available. However, we generally do not suggest using these boxes due to their limited depth and the relative infrequency of masonry construction.

Below is a general overview of the standard plate sizes and back box options for slim profile Meljac keypads.
Plate Size (mm)

38 x 91

38 x 133

38 x 144

38 x 175

Plate Size (inches)

1.5 x 3.58 x .11

1.5 x 5.24 x .11

1.5 x 5.7 x .11

3.2 x 8.1 x .11

Plastic / New Construction Box (3D Printed)

N/A

MEL38133-NC16

MELUS38144-NC

MEL38175-NC16

Plastic / Masonry Style Box

MEL3891

MEL38133

N/A

MEL38175

CLASSIQUE COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

2

4

4

5

Max. Toggles

1

3

3

4

DAMIER COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

2

4

4

5

ELLIPSE COLLECTION
Max. Push Buttons

1

2

3

3

Max. Toggles

1

2

3

3

WALL OUTLETS

For most wall outlet plate sizes a Meljac back box is required. We stock a full line of metal new construction back boxes that are UL-listed.  

Third-party back boxes can also be used for our 82 x 117 and 117 x 82 mm plate sizes, which are the equivalent of an North American single-gang (duplex) outlet plate.  Refer to the Third-Party Back Box section for more information.  

Our single-gang plate size (82 x 117 // 3.2” x 4.6” or 117 x 82 mm // 4.6” x 3.2”) will work with standard US single-gang boxes when ordered with visible screws.  When using plates with hidden screws this plate size can also be ordered for third-party back boxes.  However, this must be specified at the time of ordering and select configurations are not possible when using third-party back boxes due to their smaller cutout opening.

Below is an overview of the plate sizes and back box options for Meljac wall outlets.
Plate Size (mm)

82 x 82 x 3

82 x 117 x 3

82 x 144 x 3

82 x 207 x 3

82 x 269

Plate Size (inches)

3.2 x 3.2 x .11

3.2 x 4.6 x .11

3.2 x 5.7 x .11

3.2 x 8.1 x .11

3.2 x 10.6 x .11

Metal / New Construction Box

MELUS8282R (Ring Adapter for 4S/1900 Box)

MELUS11782

MELUS14482

MELUS20782

MELUS26982

3rd Party Box Compatibility

No

Yes

No

No

No

Max. Number of Power or Charging Ports

1

2

3

4

5

Max. Number of Low Voltage Ports

2

4

6

10

14

A table showing the prices of different products.
Notes:
  1. Plate sizes given are for vertical orientation but are also available in a horizontal orientation.
  2. Using third-party back boxes can limit certain port options and configurations and requires component spacing to be reduced.

FLOOR OUTLETS

When using Meljac floor outlets, our proprietary back boxes are required.

Below is an overview of the plate sizes and back box options for Meljac floor outlets.
Format

Single – Round

Single – Square

Double

Plate Size (inches)

100D x 14

100 x 100 x 14

180 x 100 x 14

Plate Size (inches)

3.94 x .55

3.94 x 3.94 x .55

7.09 x 3.94 x .55

Metal / New Construction Box

MELUSFL100

MELUSFL100

MELUSFL180

3rd Party Box Compatibility

No

No

No

Max. Number of Power or Charging Ports

1

1

2

Max. Number of Low Voltage Ports

2

2

2/2

A table with different types of food and prices.

READING LAMPS

The standard plate size for Meljac reading lamps is 82 x 117 mm with visible screws.  This format is compatible with any standard single-gang back box with a minimum depth of 54 mm (2 ⅛”).  For ease of installation we recommend using a single-gang ring with a 4S box.

Our reading lamps are also available with hidden screws and in alternate plate sizes when using Meljac back boxes.

THIRD-PARTY BACK BOXES (117 mm plates)

Our 82 x 117 mm and 117 x 82 mm plates, which are the equivalent of a US single-gang plate size, can be ordered to be compatible with select third-party back boxes. When using a third-party back box, it must be specified on your order to ensure compatibility. If the incorrect back box is specified on an order then this will lead to the plates not fitting properly into the installed back box.  

The purchaser is responsible for confirming that the correct back boxes are installed and properly specified on their order.

For optimal spacing and maximum flexibility with components and configurations, we recommend using Meljac back boxes, especially with keypad controls.

Keypads and reading lamps

For keypads and reading lamps that are not able to use Meljac back boxes, the products can be ordered to be compatible with third-party back boxes or ring adapters for new construction that meet the following criteria:
  1. Maximum cutout dimensions of 1.95” (W) x 3.44” (H)
  2. Minimum depth of 2.5”, unless contact closure interfaces (keypads) or transformers (reading lamps) will be remotely located.
  3. Employ individual tabs for the screw connections.
When placing an order that should be compatible with this back box size, the back box reference “U4” should be used.  The smaller size of the “U4” back box reference reduces the amount of space between two columns of controls.
Diagram of a rectangular wall plate with dimensions. The height is 3.44 inches (87.3 mm), and the width is 1.95 inches (49.5 mm). The wall plate features "Tabs for screw connection" in the center along the vertical axis.

Wall outlets

For wall outlets that are not able to use Meljac back boxes, the plates can be ordered to be compatible with third-party back boxes (new or old construction) or ring adapters (new construction) that meet the following criteria:
  1. Maximum cutout dimensions of 1.95” (W) x 3.44” (H)
  2. Minimum box depth of 2”
When placing an order that should be compatible with this back box size, the back box reference “U3” should be used.
A technical drawing of a rectangular plate with rounded corners, featuring four circular screw holes near the corners and two additional smaller circular holes in the center, one at the top and one at the bottom. Dimensions are noted as 1.81" (46 mm) width and 2.87" (73 mm) height.

overview for 117 mm plate options for third-party back boxes:

Product Category

Plate Size (mm)

Back Box Reference

Back Box Opening (inches)

Back Box Openings (mm)

Component Spacing (center-center)

Example Part Numbers

Keypads, Wall Outlets, Reading Lamps

82 x 117 // 117 x 82

MELUS11782

2.48 x 3.73

63 x 94.5

32 mm

Meljac – MELUS11782

Keypads, Wall Outlets, Reading Lamps

82 x 117 // 117 x 82

U4

1.95 x 3.44

49.5 x 87.3

30 mm

Hubbell-Raco – 772
Carlon – B122A

Wall Outlets

82 x 117 // 117 x 82

U3

1.81 x 2.87

46 x 73

28 mm

Carlon – B120R
Hubbell-Raco – 506, 690