Total Light® Astronomical Timer

Product Overview

The Total Light CS-ART Astronomical Timer is designed to automate compatible low-voltage landscape-lighting systems from inside a Total Light transformer. Instead of relying only on a fixed clock schedule, the timer can calculate daily sunrise and sunset times from the programmed ZIP code. This allows the connected lighting system to turn on or off around dusk, dawn, sunrise or sunset as seasonal daylight hours change.

Two timer programs support multiple scheduled on-and-off events, making the control useful for systems that need different evening, overnight or early-morning operating periods. Dusk and dawn settings can be adjusted with offsets, or the timer can be programmed using real clock times. Automatic daylight-saving adjustment helps reduce seasonal reprogramming.

The compact timer measures approximately 3 × 2 × 1.25 inches and is made to fit the pass-through plug inside compatible Total Light transformers. A sealed 15-amp relay helps protect the switching components from condensation, while intelligent inrush-current control and built-in surge suppression support dependable operation with landscape-lighting loads. A lithium battery backup preserves the timer settings during a power interruption. Before installation, confirm that the transformer includes the appropriate internal pass-through receptacle and that the connected lighting load remains within the timer and transformer ratings.

Key Features

• Astronomical scheduling based on the programmed ZIP code
• Calculates sunrise and sunset times daily
• Dusk, dawn, sunrise, sunset and real-time programming options
• Adjustable dusk and dawn offsets
• Two timer programs for multiple operating periods
• Automatic daylight-saving adjustment
• Sealed 15-amp relay
• Intelligent inrush-current control
• Built-in surge suppression
• Lithium battery backup
• Compact transformer-mounted design

Common Uses

• Automatically turning landscape lights on near sunset
• Turning lighting systems off at a selected nighttime hour
• Creating separate evening and early-morning schedules
• Reducing seasonal timer adjustments as daylight hours change
• Replacing basic plug-in timers in compatible Total Light transformers

Technical Specifications

• Control Type: Astronomical landscape-lighting timer
• Programs: Two timer programs
• Scheduling: Dusk, dawn, sunrise, sunset or real time
• Location Programming: ZIP-code based
• Relay: Sealed 15-amp relay
• Operating Temperature: -22°F to 158°F
• Surge Suppression: 4.5 kA, 34 joules
• Backup: Lithium battery with a listed 10-year life
• Dimensions: Approximately 3 × 2 × 1.25 inches
• UPC: 810016890379
• Warranty: One year

Compatibility and System Planning

The CS-ART is intended for installation in the pass-through receptacle of compatible Total Light transformers. Verify the transformer configuration, available interior space and electrical ratings before ordering. The timer controls power to the connected transformer circuit; it does not increase transformer capacity. The total fixture and lamp load must remain within the transformer’s rated output.

Installation and Programming Notes

• Disconnect power before accessing the transformer enclosure.
• Mount the timer only in the compatible internal pass-through receptacle.
• Enter the correct ZIP code so sunrise and sunset calculations match the installation area.
• Select dusk, dawn, sunrise, sunset or real-time events and apply offsets as needed.
• Confirm the final on-and-off schedule after programming.
• Keep the connected load within the timer and transformer ratings.
• Follow the transformer instructions and applicable electrical requirements.

What Is Included

• One Total Light CS-ART Astronomical Timer

What Is Not Included

• Low-voltage transformer
• Landscape-lighting fixtures, lamps, cable or connectors
• Installation tools or additional electrical components

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the astronomical schedule work?

The timer uses the programmed ZIP code to calculate local sunrise and sunset times each day. Those events can then be used as on or off times for the lighting system.

Can I use fixed clock times instead of dusk or dawn?

Yes. The CS-ART supports real-time scheduling as well as dusk, dawn, sunrise and sunset events.

Will the timer retain its settings during a power outage?

The timer includes a lithium battery backup intended to preserve its programming when incoming power is interrupted.

Does this timer fit every landscape-lighting transformer?

It is listed for the pass-through plug used in Total Light transformers. Confirm the receptacle, available space and ratings before installing it in a specific transformer.

Why Choose Total Light?

The CS-ART adds location-based scheduling to compatible Total Light transformers, helping a landscape-lighting system follow seasonal sunrise and sunset changes without frequent manual timer adjustments.