Lithonia Lighting's D-Series DSXW1 LED wall pack is a robust, energy-efficient solution for outdoor lighting applications such as building entranceways, pathways, and parking areas. Designed for surface mounting, the DSXW1 is engineered to deliver long-term performance with minimal maintenance, thanks to its durable construction, advanced thermal management, and versatile electrical options. This article provides a detailed review of the DSXW1 based on available source material, focusing on key installation procedures, technical specifications, and product features.
Overview of the DSXW1 LED Wall Pack
The Lithonia DSXW1 is part of the D-Series lineup of LED luminaires designed for building-mounted outdoor use. It is a wall pack luminaire that replaces traditional high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting systems, such as metal halide or high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps, with a more efficient and durable LED alternative.
The DSXW1 model is available in multiple wattage options, including 14W, 20W, 24W, 27W, 36W, 40W, 47W, and 74W, with corresponding lumen outputs ranging from 1,500 to 11,000 lumens. The product supports a wide range of input voltages (from 120V to 480V) and offers several color temperature options: 3,000K (warm white), 4,000K (neutral white), and 5,000K (cool white). Additionally, some variants feature amber phosphor correction for specific lighting applications.
The luminaire is constructed from two-piece die-cast aluminum housing with integral heat sink fins, ensuring optimal thermal management. The housing is sealed to protect against environmental contaminants, and the exterior is finished with a zinc-infused, thermoset powder coat known as "Super Durable TGIC," which provides resistance to corrosion, UV degradation, and extreme weather conditions.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
Construction and Materials
The DSXW1's design emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance. The two-piece die-cast aluminum housing includes heat sink fins that enhance conductive and convective cooling. The modular design allows for easy access to internal components, including the LED driver and light engine, facilitating maintenance and replacement without requiring complete disassembly of the unit.
The LED driver is mounted separately from the light engine, thermally isolating it to maintain low operating temperatures and extend the product's lifespan. The housing is fully sealed to prevent moisture ingress and to protect against environmental contaminants.
Finish and Environmental Resistance
The exterior of the DSXW1 is coated with a zinc-infused thermoset powder finish called "Super Durable TGIC," which provides enhanced resistance to corrosion and weathering. This finish is produced through a tightly controlled multi-stage process that ensures a minimum thickness of 3 mils, making it suitable for installation in environments with extreme temperature fluctuations.
The powder coat finish is available in several color options, including black, bronze, silver, and white, allowing the DSXW1 to blend with a variety of architectural styles and aesthetic preferences.
Optics and Light Distribution
The DSXW1 uses precision-molded acrylic lenses to control the distribution of light. These lenses are tailored for building-mounted applications and are available in different photometric distributions, including Type II (medium distribution). This ensures that the luminaire can be adapted to specific lighting needs, whether for pathway illumination or broader area coverage.
The light engine consists of high-efficacy LEDs mounted on a metal-core printed circuit board (MCPCB), which enhances heat dissipation and contributes to the longevity of the LEDs. The LEDs are rated for L87/100,000 hours at 25°C, meaning they retain 87% of their initial light output after 100,000 hours of operation.
Electrical Performance and Efficiency
The DSXW1 features Class 1 electronic drivers with a power factor exceeding 90%, and total harmonic distortion (THD) less than 20%. The drivers are designed to operate efficiently across a wide voltage range (120V to 480V) and are equipped with a minimum 2.5 kV surge protection rating. This makes the DSXW1 suitable for use in a variety of commercial and industrial settings where electrical stability may vary.
The luminaire is also compatible with 0-10V dimming protocols, allowing for integration with building automation systems and lighting control platforms. This feature enables users to adjust light output based on occupancy or ambient light levels, further enhancing energy savings.
Warranty and Compliance
Lithonia Lighting provides a 5-year limited warranty for the DSXW1 model, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The product is CSA certified for compliance with U.S. and Canadian electrical and safety standards, and it meets the minimum ambient temperature requirement of -40°C. This makes it suitable for installation in a wide range of climates and environments.
Installation and Mounting Instructions
The DSXW1 is designed for surface mounting and includes a mounting bracket that allows for seamless installation on 4-inch round or square outlet boxes. The following steps outline the general installation procedure based on available documentation:
Preparation and Planning
- Ensure that the installation site is accessible and that all tools and materials are available.
- Review the electrical specifications and confirm that the input voltage matches the luminaire's operating range.
- Choose an appropriate location for the wall pack, taking into account the required lighting coverage and any local building or electrical codes.
Mounting the Luminaire
- Attach the mounting bracket to the wall or surface using appropriate hardware and fasteners.
- Secure the luminaire body to the bracket, ensuring that it is level and properly aligned.
- Verify that the mounting bracket is compatible with the type of electrical box being used (e.g., 4-inch round or square).
Electrical Connections
- Turn off the power supply to the installation site to ensure safety during wiring.
- Connect the luminaire's wiring to the electrical box using appropriate connectors and follow the manufacturer's wiring diagram.
- Ensure that all connections are secure and insulated to prevent short circuits or electrical hazards.
- Reconnect the power supply and test the luminaire to confirm that it is functioning correctly.
Final Adjustments and Testing
- Adjust the angle of the luminaire, if applicable, to achieve the desired light distribution.
- Inspect the installation for any loose hardware or wiring issues.
- Operate the luminaire for a short period to ensure that it is functioning as expected and that there are no operational issues.
Additional installation instructions are available in technical bulletins and specification sheets provided by the manufacturer. These documents include diagrams and photographs that illustrate the proper mounting and wiring procedures for the DSXW1 model.
Use Cases and Applications
The DSXW1 is well-suited for a variety of outdoor and building-mounted lighting applications. Some of the most common use cases include:
- Building Entranceways and Pathways: The DSXW1 provides focused, directional lighting that enhances visibility and security at building entrances, walkways, and stairwells.
- Parking Areas and Garages: With its high lumen output and long lifespan, the DSXW1 is an ideal replacement for traditional HID lighting in parking garages and lots.
- Industrial and Commercial Facilities: The DSXW1’s durability and energy efficiency make it a preferred choice for lighting in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and other industrial environments.
- Public Spaces and Municipal Installations: The luminaire is suitable for use in public areas such as sidewalks, plazas, and municipal buildings, where consistent and reliable lighting is essential.
Comparison with Traditional Lighting Systems
Compared to traditional metal halide or high-pressure sodium lighting systems, the DSXW1 offers several advantages:
- Energy Efficiency: The DSXW1 uses up to 74% less energy than equivalent metal halide wall packs, significantly reducing electricity costs over time.
- Longer Lifespan: With a rated life of 100,000 hours, the DSXW1 requires less frequent replacement and reduces maintenance costs.
- Instant On/Off and No Warm-Up: Unlike traditional HID systems, the DSXW1 provides instant full light output without the need for warm-up or cool-down periods.
- Improved Light Quality: The DSXW1 produces high-quality white light with a color rendering index (CRI) of 70, making it suitable for applications where accurate color perception is important.
Considerations for Purchase and Installation
When considering the DSXW1 for a specific application, several factors should be taken into account:
- Voltage and Wattage Requirements: The DSXW1 is available in multiple wattage options and supports a wide range of input voltages. Ensure that the selected model matches the electrical infrastructure of the installation site.
- Color Temperature and Light Distribution: Choose the appropriate color temperature and photometric distribution to meet the specific lighting needs of the application.
- Mounting and Accessibility: The DSXW1 is designed for surface mounting and requires access to a 4-inch round or square outlet box. Ensure that the installation site allows for secure and stable mounting.
- Control Compatibility: If dimming or sensor integration is required, verify that the DSXW1 model is compatible with the intended control system.
Conclusion
The Lithonia DSXW1 LED wall pack is a versatile, energy-efficient lighting solution designed for a wide range of outdoor and building-mounted applications. With its durable construction, advanced thermal management, and compatibility with modern control systems, the DSXW1 offers significant advantages over traditional lighting technologies. The installation process is straightforward, and the product is backed by a 5-year warranty and CSA certification for safety and performance. For users seeking a reliable, long-lasting, and cost-effective lighting solution, the DSXW1 is an excellent option.