The Athena wireless node is a compact radio frequency (RF) device that enables precise, digital control of individual light fixtures within Lutron’s Athena or myRoom XC control systems. Its small form factor and broad compatibility with a wide range of LED drivers allow seamless integration into standard commercial fixtures from virtually any manufacturer. As part of the Athena lighting control ecosystem, the node connects lighting, shades, sensors, and cloud-based software into one cohesive network that empowers architects, designers, engineers, and facility managers to create exceptional lighting experiences and efficient building management solutions.
Designed for flexibility and interoperability, the Athena wireless node supports both tunable-white and static-white control. For tunable-white applications, it works with Lutron DALI-2 digital LED drivers (LD2) and DALI-2 certified Type 8 LED drivers, ensuring accurate and dynamic color temperature adjustments. For static-white control, the node is compatible with Lutron DALI-2 digital LED drivers, DALI-2 certified LED drivers, and ANSI C137.1 compliant 0–10V drivers, supporting consistent and reliable operation across a variety of lighting environments. The node controls up to five drivers as a single zone, simplifying configuration while maintaining individual fixture precision.
System operation requires an Athena wireless processor or a Clear Connect Gateway – Type X, which enables setup through an intuitive iOS or Android mobile app. Once connected, fixtures equipped with an Athena wireless node can communicate with other Lutron system devices such as wall controls, keypads, Pico remotes, and sensors, allowing unified wireless control and system expansion without the need for rewiring. Typically installed at the OEM factory, each fixture arrives ready to communicate wirelessly once power is applied, minimizing on-site labor and ensuring consistent performance across installations.
Two main model variants are available to suit different project requirements. The A-WN-D01-RF model is plenum rated and can be installed above the ceiling to maintain clean fixture aesthetics while enabling full wireless control. The A-WN-D01-OCC version integrates both a passive infrared (PIR) occupancy sensor and a daylight sensor, combining control and sensing functions in one compact unit. Both versions are available with white or black flanges, while the sensor dome remains white for both finishes.
The Athena wireless node meets multiple international regulatory and performance standards, including cULus Listing (UL916), NOM certification, UL 2043 plenum rating, FCC Class B digital compliance, IC and IFETEL approvals, and ANSI C137.1 0–10V electronic off certification. It is also D4i certified and supports DALI-2 Type 8 tunable-white color temperature applications per IEC 62386-209. Built for reliability and safety, the device operates on IEC SELV/NEC Class 2 power, within a voltage range of 9.5–28.8V and a maximum current of 46mA. It is rated for indoor use at ambient temperatures between 32°F and 131°F (0°C to 55°C) and 0–90% non-condensing humidity.
Installation is straightforward thanks to the node’s adaptable mounting design. It fits Zhaga Specification Book 20 apertures (21.8–23.0mm diameter), standard ½-inch trade size knockouts (22.5mm nominal diameter), and fixture wall thicknesses between 0.4mm and 2.0mm. The unit includes a four-position screw terminal compatible with 26–18 AWG wire. Only two wires are required for Lutron digital and DALI drivers, while four are needed for 0–10V drivers. Wireless communication is achieved via the 2.4GHz Clear Connect – Type X network, with each node installed within 25 feet of two or more other Clear Connect devices to ensure robust mesh connectivity.
Out of the box, before system commissioning, the node defaults to a 100% light level at 4000K (or the fixture’s closest supported temperature). Occupancy and daylight sensing are disabled until programmed. Once added to an Athena or myRoom XC system, advanced control features such as individualized fixture addressing, zoning, and sensor activation are easily configured through the Lutron mobile app.
The integrated occupancy functionality employs passive infrared motion detection using Lutron XCT technology, ensuring high sensitivity to both major and minor motion within a 360-degree field of view. Default timeout is set to 15 minutes and can be adjusted as low as one minute. The embedded daylight sensor offers linear response to light levels from 0 to 1600 lux and performs an automatic calibration the first time the space becomes vacant after integration into the Athena system, maintaining optimal light balance based on real-time ambient conditions.
Through the Lutron Designer software, users can fine-tune fixture-level settings such as zoning, trim levels, minimum light levels, preset intensities, tunable-white color temperatures, sensor timeouts, and daylight setpoints. These customizable options support a wide range of application requirements, from adaptive open-plan offices to corridors that require continuous low-level lighting.
For emergency lighting functionality, the Athena wireless node supports two configurations. Fixtures deployed prior to 2025 remain compatible with the LUT-SHUNT-FM device, while newer systems must use the LUT-SHUNT-A-TD-5 solution. In all cases, proper driver behavior is essential: the driver must fully discharge within four seconds when power is removed and, for 0–10V drivers, restore power within 0.5 seconds when re-energized to ensure reliable emergency operation.
The Athena wireless node maximizes design flexibility through wide driver compatibility. For tunable-white fixtures, it pairs seamlessly with Lutron LD2 models and supports DALI-2 Type 8 color temperature control (IEC 62386-209). For static-white fixtures, it supports DALI-2 static-white applications (IEC 62386-207) and ANSI C137.1 compliant 0–10V drivers with a 10mA maximum sink current. Power supply requirements vary by driver type: DALI configurations must use D4i or DALI-2 certified LED drivers with an integrated 250mA maximum bus supply, while 0–10V systems require ANSI C137.1 compliant drivers with an auxiliary power output of 12–24V and a minimum of 750mW.
Interoperable, adaptable, and ready for the future, the Athena wireless node represents the next generation of fixture-level lighting control. Its coin-sized form integrates wireless flexibility, advanced sensing, and digital precision into a single compact device that simplifies design and enhances long-term scalability. Fully compliant with global standards such as DALI-2, D4i, and 0–10V, it enables any compatible fixture to become part of the Athena ecosystem—offering lighting professionals unprecedented creative freedom and performance consistency.
Beyond interoperability, the Athena wireless node introduces a new era of wireless flexibility. Lighting layouts and zoning can be modified before or after occupancy without rewiring, enabling effortless adaptation to evolving architectural needs or event-based lighting configurations. With cloud connectivity and secure, signed firmware updates, the node continuously gains new features while maintaining bank-grade cybersecurity. Through the intuitive Lutron Dashboard and mobile app, users gain complete visibility and control over building lighting performance, energy data, and fixture behavior—all within a unified platform.
Finally, the Athena wireless node enhances wellness and visual comfort by synchronizing light throughout the day. When integrated into compatible DALI-controlled fixtures, it dynamically adjusts correlated color temperature to emulate natural daylight cycles, supporting circadian-friendly environments in offices, hospitality spaces, and commercial interiors. Compact, intelligent, and future-ready, the Athena wireless node extends the power of the Athena system—bringing wireless precision, intuitive control, and adaptive design freedom to every luminaire.
https://commercial.lutron.com/us/en/whole-building-systems/athena-wireless-node
