KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Verify certified gateway functions
- Test complete multi-vendor sequences
- Define failure and recovery behavior
- Handover credentials and network records
01A New Certification Milestone
The DALI Alliance presented new testing and certification specifications for wireless-to-DALI gateways around Light + Building 2026. The program targets standardized translation between DALI systems and wireless protocols including Bluetooth NLC and Zigbee.
Certification can reduce integration uncertainty, but it does not replace project-level system design.
02What the Gateway Does
A gateway connects wireless control networks with DALI luminaires, drivers and sensors. This can preserve proven DALI device control while reducing new control wiring in retrofit areas.
The gateway becomes a critical system component, so capacity and failure behavior must be understood.
2026 Industry Impact at a Glance
01 Verify certified gateway functions
Verify certified gateway functions. Include this item in the project or product compliance review.
02 Test complete multi-vendor sequences
Test complete multi-vendor sequences. Include this item in the project or product compliance review.
03 Define failure and recovery behavior
Define failure and recovery behavior. Include this item in the project or product compliance review.
04 Handover credentials and network records
Handover credentials and network records. Include this item in the project or product compliance review.
03Bluetooth NLC and Zigbee Connections
Bluetooth NLC and Zigbee use different network and application approaches. Designers should verify the exact certified gateway function, supported device types and commissioning workflow rather than treating every wireless product as interchangeable.
Compatibility must be checked across firmware versions as well as hardware.
04Evidence Specifiers Should Request
Request certification records, supported protocol versions, device limits, security details and update policies. Confirm how emergency lighting and building-management data are handled.
Tender documents should describe required sequences and acceptance tests, not just protocol names.
2026 Action Matrix
| Responsibility | 2026 Priority | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Design Team | Interpretation | Translate official requirements into project criteria |
| Manufacturer | Evidence | Maintain verified product and system documentation |
| Owner / Operator | Performance | Commission, monitor and retain handover records |
05Commissioning the Complete System
Pilot a representative zone with real sensors, controls and luminaires. Test normal operation, network interruption, device replacement and recovery.
Handover should include credentials, topology, addressing, firmware records and a clear maintenance responsibility matrix.