Lutron Electronics Co., a leading manufacturer of lighting controls, has begun shipping its new Maestro Wireless Safe Entry Dimming System, a dimmer designed specifically to aid homeowners when they enter their houses in the dark.

The latest addition to the Lutron Maestro family of multilocation dimmers uses radio frequency technology to control lights from up to 100 feet away. In this way, the homeowner can turn on indoor or outdoor lights before reaching the front door.

Maestro Wireless packages include a wireless controller, wireless dimmer, wall clip for mounting the wireless controllers, and one visor clip. The wireless controller attaches to a car visor and is compatible with HomeLink-equipped vehicles. A homeowner can also carry the controller with them, place it on a tabletop, or mount it to a wall for a wireless three-way application anywhere they need an additional switch.

Additional wireless controllers are available separately. A homeowner can use up to four controllers per dimmer.

Company officials said the flexibility of the Maestro Wireless dimmer and controller present a good substitute for difficult wire runs, such as those in outbuildings and stairwells. Installers need only replace an existing switch to gain wireless control. The dimmer has a capacity of 600W/120V (incandescent/halogen) and is multilocation-compatible.

The Maestro Wireless dimmers are available in seven gloss and 20 satin colors. The controller comes in white. The dimmer and wireless controller package has a suggested list price of $169.