Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) is the only global standard for lighting. It was developed in the late 90s and approved at the Hannover Messe in 2002.

Rather than a lighting management system, DALI is actually a device protocol. Originally part of the ballast standard, DALI has since been given its own standard, IEC 62386, in recognition of the fact that it is now capable of driving emergency lighting, low voltage halogen, HID, LEDs and incandescent lighting. DALI input devices, such as dimmer switches and multi sensors, have also now been developed that connect directly to the DALI bus to provide local and, in some cases, system-wide control.

DALI is unique in that it allows the user to address up to 64 ballasts or drivers per DALI circuit, and then further address each device to a specific group to a maximum of 16. Scene information can also be stored within the ballast/driver.

Addressing the DALI devices allows for greater flexibility in installation and operation, and provides the additional benefit of diagnostics. As a published standard for all of the above light sources, DALI commands are universal and future proof. The dimming curve is eye sensitive and all switching is powerless via the DALI bus.