Power Line Communication (PLC) is a technology that transmits data through the same cables already used for supplying electricity. In other words, you use the same power cable not only to power luminaires but also to control them — with no need for additional wiring or radio equipment.&nbsp;How PLC works&nbsp; At the heart of PLC is signal modulation: a data signal is overlaid onto the existing electrical waveform without disrupting the base frequency. Simply put, we don’t change the supply voltage — instead, we modulate the shape of the wave by adding controlled high-frequency oscillations. These modulations are picked up by receivers in the luminaires and interpreted as commands (e.g., on/off, dimming, switching scenes). It works similarly to how sound is transmitted over radio waves: the core energy powers the system, while the modulation carries the data.&nbsp;Where PLC is used&nbsp; The technology is ideal for centralized lighting systems, where:<ul><li>All luminaires are powered from a single source (such as one control cabinet).</li><li>A single cable can serve 50, 100 or more lighting poles.</li><li>Power and control signals travel over the same wire, making installation as simple and cost-efficient as possible.</li></ul>Typical scenario: a new city street or highway where all lighting is wired to a central point, and the cable is used only for lighting.

Why PLC can’t always be used&nbsp; The technology performs best under two key conditions: 1. Centralized power supply — luminaires must be connected to one cabinet. 2. Cable is used only for lighting — without extra loads like:<ul><li>billboards</li><li>traffic lights</li><li>public outlets</li><li>pumps, etc.</li></ul>When other loads are added to the circuit, they interfere with the PLC signal and distort the modulation — leading to control failures. However, there is a technical solution that can help mitigate this issue in many cases — a noise filter. It eliminates interference and stabilizes the PLC signal when non-lighting devices are present on the line.&nbsp;It's a common misconception that noise filters are always required. In practice, they are only necessary when:<ul><li>More than 15–20% of the connected load comes from third-party devices</li><li>The line includes high-interference equipment, such as LED screens or industrial pumps</li></ul>

When to choose PLC<ul><li>All lights share a common power line</li><li>There are no third-party devices connected</li><li>You need an affordable, stable control system</li></ul>&nbsp;When to choose Radio<ul><li>Each pole is powered independently</li><li>The site has a complex or historic infrastructure</li><li>You can’t guarantee what else is connected to the line &nbsp;</li></ul>Every project Is unique.&nbsp;While PLC is a reliable and cost-effective option, there’s no universal solution. Choosing between PLC, radio, or GSM depends on:<ul><li>Site architecture</li><li>Number and density of luminaires</li><li>Existing infrastructure</li><li>Control and scheduling needs &nbsp;</li></ul>At DITRA Solutions, we tailor the technology to fit each project — ensuring the system is as stable, efficient, and long-lasting as possible.&nbsp;

<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:pre-wrap;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;">Lighting control without extra infrastructure. That’s the PLC advantage

large_Frame 448.png

medium_Frame 448.png

small_Frame 448.png

thumbnail_Frame 448.png

Frame 448.png

DITRA LiteLINE – Add-On Module for Remote Control of PLC-Enabled DevicesDITRA LiteLINE is an expansion module designed for remote management of devices equipped with PLC (Power Line Communication) technology.Utilizing PLC technology, it enables seamless luminaire control and communicates with cabinet controllers via an RS-485 (MODBUS) interface.The unit operates on a 100-250 V power supply and is configured remotely through DITRA software via cabinet controllers.Engineered for DIN rail mounting in power supply cabinets, it offers a compact and reliable solution for street lighting management.

PLC (Power Line Communication) Gateway for Street Lighting Control and Management

DITRA LiteLINE

The Wire LiteLINE Node is a wired PLC (Power Line Communication) control and dimming module designed for managing a single luminaire or a group of luminaires.It is fully compatible with third-party motion sensors.The Wire LiteLINE Node supports multiple interfaces, including DALI, DALI 2.0, PWM, 1-10V, and 0-10V, as well as independent load control (on/off).Operating on a voltage range of 110-230 V, the device supports luminaires with power ratings of up to 1000 W.Control is provided individually through the DITRA CORE PRO, PRO-2, or LIGHT Central Gateways or via DITRA LiteLINE over 110-230 V power lines. LiteLINE technology operates at a frequency of 132.5 kHz, in compliance with CENELEC EN 50065-1 (band-C) standards.The unit is designed for flexible installation inside a luminaire, within its housing, or inside a lighting pole using wired connections. It also features an IP68 rating for dust and moisture protection.

Pole-mounted outdoor streetlight luminaire controller with wired connection for Power Line Communication (PLC).

Wire LiteLINE Node

NEMA LiteLINE Node is a module designed for individual control, diagnostics, and dimming of luminaires.NEMA LiteLINE Node functions as a PLC (Power Line Communication) control and dimming module, suitable for managing a single luminaire or a group of luminaires.NEMA LiteLINE Node is compatible with third-party motion sensors.It supports DALI, DALI 2.0, PWM, 1-10V, 0-10V interfaces, and offers individual load control (on/off).The unit operates on 110-230 V, supports luminaires with power ratings up to 1000 W.NEMA LiteLINE Node is managed individually through Central Gateway DITRA CORE PRO, PRO-2, LIGHT and Ditra LiteLINE via 110-230 V power lines. LiteLINE technology operates within the 132.5 kHz frequency range, complying with CENELEC EN 50065-1 (band-C).The device is designed for installation on luminaires using a NEMA socket and features an IP66 rating for dust and moisture protection.

PLC (Power Line Communication) NEMA Street Light Luminaire Controller

NEMA LiteLINE Node

The Screw LiteLINE Node is a PLC-based control and dimming module designed for managing individual luminaires or groups of luminaires.It is compatible with third-party motion sensors and supports DALI, DALI 2.0, PWM, 1-10V, and 0-10V interfaces, along with individual load control (on/off).The unit operates on 110-230 V and supports luminaires with power ratings up to 1000 W.The Screw LiteLINE Node is controlled individually through Central Gateway DITRA CORE PRO, PRO-2, LIGHT and DITRA LiteLINE via 110-230 V power lines. The LiteLINE technology operates at 132.5 kHz, compliant with CENELEC EN 50065-1 (band-C) standards.Designed for installation inside luminaires, luminaire housings, or lighting poles using screw terminals, the device features IP68-rated dust and moisture protection, ensuring durability in challenging environments.

PLC (Power Line Communication) Embedded Street Light Luminaire Controller with Screw Terminal Connection

Screw LiteLINE Node

Lighting control without extra infrastructure. That’s the PLC advantage

PLC in Street lighting: How it works and when to use it

When it comes to controlling dynamic outdoor lighting — especially RGB poles installed along long road segments — selecting the right data transmission architecture is critical. Often, lighting control is designed after power lines have already been installed, which raises a key question: How can we manage lighting efficiently and in sync across distances of several kilometers?&nbsp;Why device-to-device retransmission may be insufficient Some projects use systems where one controller receives the signal and then passes it to the next. This may work for simple actions (on/off, dimming), but becomes a technical bottleneck when managing dynamic RGB scenes, which require high synchronization and signal stability.In a typical wireless DMX control architecture:<ul><li>The master station signal can cover up to 300–500 meters</li><li>With retransmission (hopping), each additional hop adds only ~100 meters of reliable range</li></ul>After 3–4 hops:<ul><li>Data transmission delays increase</li><li>Packet loss and command distortion become more likely</li><li>RGB scenes start to fall out of sync</li><li>Animations degrade or fail to render</li></ul>As a result, when managing long lighting lines with many nodes, cascading DMX signal retransmission becomes unreliable, especially for animations or advanced lighting effects.

What we recommend for these systems&nbsp;1. Fiber Optic Cable InstallationIf the project is at the construction stage, and there is a chance to install control lines along with the power infrastructure, fiber optics remains the most technically robust solution:<ul><li>Supports any protocol: DMX, Art-Net, sACN</li><li>Fully synchronized, immune to radio interference</li><li>Long-term reliability in continuous operation</li></ul>While fiber offers the best performance, it's important to note that groundwork and materials significantly increase the budget, often making this solution less feasible for retrofits or existing installations.

2. GSM-Based Controllers with GPS SynchronizationIf the lighting system is already installed and cable installation is not possible, GSM architecture offers an excellent wireless alternative:<ul><li>Each controller receives its scenario and schedule directly</li><li>Local execution — no dependency on neighboring units</li><li>GPS-based synchronization guarantees aligned scene playback, even across long distances</li><li>Private APN options provide secure, isolated data transmission</li></ul>In terms of budget, the GSM solution is approximately 10 times more affordable than fiber — while still delivering precise, scalable control.This approach is particularly well-suited for modernizing existing projects or situations where trenching is technically or economically unviable.&nbsp;Conclusion Lighting control is about much more than simply switching things on. When architectural or decorative scenes are involved, accuracy, smoothness, and perfect synchronization become mission-critical. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” protocol — instead, it’s about matching the infrastructure to the task. &nbsp;

<span style="border-color:var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero);box-sizing:inherit;margin:var(--artdeco-reset-base-margin-zero);outline:var(--artdeco-reset-base-outline-zero);padding:var(--artdeco-reset-base-padding-zero);vertical-align:var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline);" data-scaffold-immersive-reader-title="">Choosing the right infrastructure for distributed lighting control

large_Frame 431.png

medium_Frame 431.png

small_Frame 431.png

thumbnail_Frame 431.png

Frame 431.png

Upgrade your city’s street lighting infrastructure with the NEMA GSM Node—a compact, waterproof, and wireless luminaire controller.Designed for advanced functionality and seamless compatibility, it provides precise control and real-time diagnostics for every luminaire.Harnessing state-of-the-art technology, the NEMA GSM Node optimizes street lighting performance. It supports luminaires up to 1000W across a wide voltage range (up to 305V), ensuring both efficiency and reliability.With motion sensor inputs, it seamlessly integrates with third-party sensors to enhance responsiveness to environmental changes.From light control and tilt monitoring to GPS-based alignment, the NEMA GSM Node delivers exceptional precision and performance.

Wireless Control, Diagnostic, and Dimming for Modern Urban Lighting

NEMA GSM Node

Wire GSM Node is a wired street light controller that supports individual luminaire control, diagnostics, and dimming via wireless 2G/4G/NB-IoT cellular networks.It is compatible with multiple luminaire control interfaces, including DALI, DALI 2.0, PWM, 1-10V, and 0-10V. Data exchange between the device and the server is carried out through cellular networks, ensuring reliable communication.The unit features a built-in GPS receiver for geo-positioning, internal clock synchronization, and an accelerometer for detecting vibration, acceleration, and tilt. It can be controlled by an integrated light sensor or a third-party sensor.Powered by 110/220 V, the Wire GSM Node supports luminaires with power ratings up to 1000 W.Configuration is done directly through Ditra software.Designed for mounting directly on lighting poles or luminaires, the Wire GSM Node offers IP66-rated dust and water resistance, ensuring durability in outdoor environments. Installation is performed via wired connections.

2G/4G/NB-IoT Street Light Luminaire Controller with Wired Connectivity

Wire GSM Node

The GSM Node (Zhaga-type connector) is a wireless 2G/4G/NB-IoT street light controller designed for individual luminaire control, diagnostics, and dimming.It supports DALI 2.0 interfaces for flexible luminaire management. Data communication between the device and the server is carried out via 2G/4G/NB-IoT cellular networks. The luminaire can be controlled using either a built-in light sensor or a third-party light sensor.Equipped with a built-in GPS receiver, the device enables geo-positioning, internal clock synchronization, and includes an accelerometer for monitoring vibration, acceleration, and tilt.The unit operates on 12-30 V DC power supply and is configured directly through DITRA software.Designed for direct mounting on luminaires, the GSM Node features a Zhaga-type connection and comes with an IP66 dust and water resistance rating, ensuring durability in outdoor environments.

2G/4G/NB-IoT Zhaga-type connection Street Light Luminaire Controller

GSM Node (Zhaga-type connector)

Choosing the right infrastructure for distributed lighting control

Long-distance RGB scene management

Challenge: How to lay the foundation for a Truly Smart City?Lusail Smart City, just north of Doha, is one of the most ambitious urban development projects in the world — spanning 38 square kilometers and designed as a benchmark for sustainability, digital infrastructure, and intelligent public services.The first visible step in making a city smart — is street lighting. In Hazoum, over 998 street luminaires had to be connected, monitored, and dimmed individually, forming a responsive lighting network that adapts to time, movement, and daylight levels.The lighting system needed to provide reliable visibility, withstand desert heat, and serve as a launchpad for future urban technologies.One of the first goals of the Hazoum phase was to deploy&nbsp;a smart lighting system that could:Reduce energy use while maintaining safetyOffer individual luminaire control across 998+ pointsOperate autonomously if network access is lostIntegrate with Lusail’s broader Smart City infrastructureBe scalable and maintainable in harsh desert climateThe city needed more than just a lighting system — it needed a&nbsp;robust, distributed digital infrastructure ready to support future smart services.

Solution: DITRA’s PLC-based lighting control networkDITRA delivered a fully autonomous street lighting solution using its LiteLINE PLC nodes — each streetlight equipped for individual dimming, switching, and diagnostics. With DITRA CORE PRO cabinets controlling the zones, the system functions both remotely and locally, even during communication failures.Our scope included:31 cabinet controllers with our flagship&nbsp;DITRA CORE PRO998 PLC nodes (LiteLINE) for individual luminaire controlBuilt-in&nbsp;fallback logic for autonomous operationSeamless integration with Lusail’s central CMS platformAll components were engineered for&nbsp;high-temperature operation, built with industrial-grade protection, and designed for long-term service in Gulf conditions.

Outcome: Lighting that thinks aheadThanks to DITRA’s technology, Lusail now has:A&nbsp;reliable and scalable digital backbone for street lightingEnergy-efficient dimming and on/off control for every pointZero dependency on extra control cablesA smart system that&nbsp;remains operational even without networkInfrastructure ready for future upgrades — from air quality sensors to traffic counters &nbsp;The streets of Lusail aren’t just illuminated — they are connected, adaptive, and ready for the future. Every pole can now act as a smart city node.

<article class="text-token-text-primary w-full" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;" dir="auto" data-testid="conversation-turn-631" data-scroll-anchor="true"><div class="text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[72rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)"><div class="[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto flex max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 group/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden" tabindex="-1"><div class="group/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn"><div class="relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"><div class="flex max-w-full flex-col grow"><div class="min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="2eca491d-dbec-4a8b-b52f-2673dd78050a" dir="auto" data-message-model-slug="gpt-4o"><div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"><div class="markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light">In Lusail City, Qatar, street lighting isn’t just about visibility — it’s about infrastructure. With 998 PLC-controlled luminaires, autonomous logic, and zero extra cabling, DITRA’s system lays the foundation for a connected, adaptive, and future-ready city.Explore how intelligent lighting can power smart city transformation — one pole at a time.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></article>

large_1747385364411.jpeg

medium_1747385364411.jpeg

small_1747385364411.jpeg

thumbnail_1747385364411.jpeg

1747385364411.jpeg

The Core of Smart Street Lighting Control The DITRA CORE PRO Controller is an advanced solution for remote monitoring and management of lighting systems. Tailored for modern urban infrastructure, it ensures secure two-way communication and seamless integration with smart city technologies, enabling efficient lighting control from any location.Acting as the central hub of the DITRA control system, the DITRA CORE PRO Controller monitors and manages electrical components within lighting control cabinets, including magnetic starters and compatible accessories.It supports RS-485 and CAN interfaces for data exchange with connected devices and meters, while 2G cellular communication ensures reliable connectivity to the DITRA server.The controller is designed to operate on 110/220 V AC or 9-36 V DC, providing flexible power supply options.Configuration is simple and can be performed remotely via the DITRA software platform or locally using DIP switches on the device.Compact and DIN rail-mountable, the DITRA CORE PRO Controller is built for easy integration into lighting control cabinets, delivering both performance and reliability.

Mid-Sized Segment Controller for Street Lighting

OUR LATEST NEWS & PROJECTS

PLC in Street lighting: How it works and when to use it

Long-distance RGB scene management

Smart Street Lighting Infrastructure for Lusail City, Qatar