TRIAC Light Dimmer

This little circuit can be used to dim lights up to about 350 watts. It uses a simple, standard TRIAC circuit that, in my expirience, generates very little heat. Please note that this circuit cannot be used with fluorescent lights.

Schematic

Parts

Part Total Qty. Description Substitutions R1 1 50K Pot R2 1 15K 1/2W Resistor C1, C2 2 0.068 250V Capacitor L1 1 Lamp To Be Controlled (up to 350 watts) L2 1 Neon Lamp TR1 1 40502 TRIAC MISC 1 Case, Knob, Heatsink For TR1, Wire, Socket For L1

Notes

1. This circuit is for 117VAC only. 220 or 240 V will burn up the circuit. L1 can be a maximum of 350 watts.
2. The circuit must be installed and used in a case.