Controls 
Controls are basically devices that turn the lighting system on and off. They can be used to increase the convenience and economy of the system.

Photocells, sometimes referred to as an electric-eye, are light sensitive switches which turn on the transformer when ambient light levels drop at dusk and switch it off when the sun rises. Photocells typically are mounted in or on the transformer housing. When the transformer is not open to daylight or is located indoors, remote photocells which are connected by a cable are available for most models.

Timers or time switches control the power center based on the time of day and on some models, the day of the week as well. Timers are typically built into the transformer cabinet. There are analog and digital models. For many models, the power can be turned off and on several different times during the day.

Photocells and timers are often used together. With photocells, the system is on throughout the night which may not be desirable for economic or other reasons. The problem with timers is that the sun sets and rises at different times throughout the year. In December, you may want to lights to go on at 5:30 PM, but not until 8:30 in June. By using a photocell/timer combination the lights will not go on until dusk and can be switched off at any time during the night.

Some designs may also require a switch that controls one or more individual fixtures that are part of a circuit. BBQ lights have a switch on the base so that they can be used only when the grill is being used. A gazebo may have an overhead light that is only needed when dining. By installing a switch for this fixture only the rest of the lighting system is not affected when it is not needed. There are many types of switches that can be used for this purpose including standard household single pole switches. Just make sure the switch is rated to handle the wattage of the fixtures that it will control.

X10 is a patented communications standard used to pass data between devices through line voltage electric wiring. X10 devices use the home’s electric wiring to send data and commands. There are hundreds of devices that have been developed using this technology as part of “smart home” systems. These devices can be used to do everything from turning on the coffee pot in the morning to controlling very sophisticated security systems. They may incorporate a personal computer as part of the system.

Several landscape lighting manufacturing companies have provided for incorporating X10 technology. Even if the transformer is not “X10” ready, there are third party modules that can be used with low voltage transformers. This technology allows the landscape lighting system to be incorporated into the home’s security and safety system.

Some transformers also include a 24 volt relay to allow the lighting system to be controlled by the sprinkler or irrigation system. The two systems can be connected by low voltage cable to provide for coordinated operation.