PH Artichoke dimmable: DALI, Bluetooth & driver guide

Why this section is essential before purchasing

The PH Artichoke is often chosen for its iconic design, yet its technical configurations vary significantly depending on size and light source.

Dimming system, driver type, ceiling canopy shape and wiring can have a direct impact on installation, compatibility with existing wiring, and everyday user comfort.

Understanding these differences helps avoid surprises during installation, especially with large diameters Ø60, Ø72 and Ø84 cm.

Important reminder: indoor luminaire IP20

The PH Artichoke is designed exclusively for indoor use.

IP20 protection rating, suitable for living rooms, dining rooms, entrances, bedrooms and halls, but not suitable for outdoor or wet areas.

The three available dimming technologies

DALI: premium lighting control

DALI is a professional lighting control system, ideal for:

architectural projects,
smart building installations,
precise and scalable lighting scenes.

It requires dedicated wiring with two additional control wires (DA1 / DA2) in addition to live, neutral and earth.

On PH Artichoke Ø60, Ø72 and Ø84, DALI is the only system compatible with an external driver.

Note: the DALI drivers used can also operate in push-dim mode as a fallback solution.

Bluetooth (Casambi): the simplest solution

Bluetooth (Casambi) allows wireless control, via:

a compatible wall switch,
or a smartphone / tablet app.

Advantages:

no dedicated control wiring required,
simplified installation,
ideal for renovation projects.

Important:

Bluetooth is only available with an internal driver.

When the driver is external (metal housing), the Bluetooth signal may be disturbed and is therefore not offered.

Phase dimming: classic wall dimmer control

Phase dimming (phase-cut / mains dimming) allows control via a compatible wall dimmer.

This option is limited to the PH Artichoke Ø48 cm LED, mainly in the Dim-to-Warm version (3000K → 1800K).

PH Artichoke models Ø60 and above are not compatible with phase dimming, due to the power requirements and driver design.

Understanding the role of the driver: internal or external

The driver is the electronic component that powers and controls the LED. Its location depends on the selected configuration.

External driver: flexible technical solution

On PH Artichoke LED Ø60, Ø72 and Ø84, an external driver can be selected (DALI only).

In this configuration:

the ceiling canopy is similar to that of the E27 versions,
the driver is housed in an external metal box (approx. 30 × 12 × 5 cm),
the box can be installed in a suspended ceiling or remotely (up to 20 m away),
it must not be in contact with thermal insulation.

This solution is ideal for sloped ceilings or complex technical constraints.

Internal driver: integrated look, flat ceiling required

With an internal driver, the driver is housed inside the ceiling canopy, hidden behind a hemispherical rosette.

Key points:

used on all PH Artichoke Ø48 LED versions,
also used on Ø60, Ø72 and Ø84 LED depending on configuration,
installation requires a perfectly flat ceiling,
mounted on a fixing plate secured with four screws.

For sloped ceilings, exposed beams or uneven surfaces, this solution is not recommended.

The ceiling canopy: a key difference between versions

Often overlooked, the ceiling canopy varies significantly depending on size and light source.

E27 versions (all sizes)

trumpet-shaped canopy,
white plastic,
Ø48 slightly smaller than Ø60–Ø84,
single suspension point,
suitable for flat or sloped ceilings.

LED versions with internal driver

hemispherical canopy,
conceals the driver mounting,
installation on flat ceilings only.

LED versions with external driver

canopy identical to E27 versions,
mainly decorative function (covering the ceiling hook),
can be replaced with a smaller canopy if required.

When to choose E27 and when to choose LED

E27 versions should be considered primarily as decorative luminaires.

Light output is intentionally limited by the lamp’s structure, prioritising visual comfort and glare-free lighting.

LED versions, on the other hand, offer:

significantly higher luminous output,
longer lifespan,
a real contribution to general lighting, especially from Ø60 upwards.

Indicative values:

Ø48 LED white 3000K ≈ max. 1400 lm,
Ø60 LED white up to approx. 3800 lm,
Ø72 and Ø84 LED suitable for large spaces, dimming strongly recommended.

FAQ – PH Artichoke: dimming, driver & installation

1. DALI or Bluetooth: which should I choose?

Bluetooth for simplicity, DALI for advanced and scalable projects.

2. Does Bluetooth require special wiring?

No, standard wiring is sufficient.

3. Why is Bluetooth not compatible with an external driver?

The metal housing of the external driver can interfere with the wireless signal.

4. Why is a flat ceiling required with an internal driver?

The driver is integrated into the canopy and must be mounted perfectly level.

5. How do I know if my ceiling is sloped?

Any inclination or uneven surface requires an external driver.

6. Is DALI available with an external driver?

Yes, on Ø60, Ø72 and Ø84 models.

7. Is Bluetooth available on large sizes?

Yes, but only with an internal driver.

8. 2700K or 3000K: what’s the difference?

2700K creates a warmer atmosphere; 3000K is more neutral and architectural.

9. Does an LED Artichoke provide enough light for a room?

Yes, especially from Ø60 upwards, though dimming is highly recommended.

10. Can the control system be changed after installation?

Yes, a qualified electrician can adapt the system without affecting the warranty.

Personalised support for your installation

Every project is unique. If your configuration does not seem suitable (ceiling type, slope, technical constraints) or if you have specific requirements regarding the installation of your PH Artichoke, our team is here to advise you and review your project.

Feel free to contact us at contact@lumitop.com.

Also worth reading about the PH Artichoke

To go further and refine your choice, we invite you to explore other articles dedicated to the PH Artichoke universe and the iconic lighting designed by Louis Poulsen. These complementary guides will help you better understand dimensions, real light output, interior integration, and the differences between large designer pendant lights.

Which PH Artichoke size to choose? Ø48, Ø60, Ø72 or Ø84 cm

Not sure whether to choose Artichoke Ø48, Ø60, Ø72 or Ø84 cm? This guide helps you pick the right size based on your room, table and desired visual impact, for a perfectly balanced luxury lighting result. Read more ›

Which PH Artichoke size to choose? Ø48, Ø60, Ø72 or Ø84 cm

PH Artichoke by Louis Poulsen: sizes, dimming options and full guide

A true Scandinavian design icon, the PH Artichoke delivers soft, glare-free lighting with a sculptural look. Explore Artichoke Ø48, Ø60, Ø72 and Ø84 cm sizes, dimmable options (DALI, Bluetooth, phase dimming) and key installation tips to choose the perfect version. Read more ›

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