Priv Tint Installation Guide

A comprehensive guide for contractors installing switchable smart film & consumers to get an understanding of the process..

Important - Only Qualified electricians to complete the wiring and connection and confirmed by PRIV to install.

This instalaltion guide is only for PRIV certified products that are to NZ & Auz electrical standards and are supplied by PRIV but installed by our certified contractors.

1. Pre-Installation Requirements

Before you begin installation, ensure the following:

Send dimensions of each glass pane that the smart film will be applied to. (Width & height of each glass pane)
Glass is clean, smooth, and free of any imperfections.
Measurements of the glass and film are accurate and matched.
Power supply is 230V and transformer (provided) is ready for use.
The surface is suitable for indoor application only.

Recommended Tools: clean cloth, squeegee, spray bottle with mild soap solution, screwdriver, multimeter, cable clips or trunking.

2. Wiring and Power Setup

The install process has two primary stages: wiring and film installation. For new builds, this is typically done in two phases — before and after lining and painting. For existing homes, both stages can often be completed on the same day with some additional wall access.

A. Cable Routing

Control Cable (Light Switch to Controller)
Use a 1.5 mm² 3-core strap cable from your wall switch. Route this through the ceiling cavity into a flush box that will house your controller. This cable carries the control signal to the smart film.
Power Feed (PowerPoint to Controller)
Use a 2.5 mm² twin and earth cable tapped from the nearest PowerPoint. Route it to the controller location via the same flush box. This will supply 230V to power the controller.
Output Cable (Controller to Smart Film)
Use a 2-core cable from the controller to each glass panel. The red wire connects to the left side of the glass and the black wire to the right side.
Clearly label each cable during the rough-in stage:
- 2.5 mm² – Power feed to controller
- 1.5 mm² 3-core – Control cable from wall switch
- 2-core – Output wire to each individuall Glass Pane or smart film panels
Proper labelling will speed up final connections and prevent mistakes.

The smart film is pre-wired with tails emerging from the top-left and top-right of each panel. Match these tails to the corresponding output cables.

B. Controller Placement

The controller must remain accessible after installation. Its dimensions are approximately 120mm wide by 90mm high. Ideally, it should be placed in a ceiling cavity near the flush box where all cables terminate.

If working near cabinetry (e.g. a mirror cabinet), ensure everything is hidden for a clean, finished look.

3. Smart Film Application

The smart film is delivered pre-cut and ready for application. For best results, we recommend hiring a signwriter or someone experienced in applying vinyl film to glass.

Installation Steps:

Clean the glass thoroughly using isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth.
Spray a mist of soapy water on the glass surface.
Peel the backing from the film and apply it carefully from one edge.
Use a squeegee to remove any air bubbles or excess water.
Connect the smart film tails to the 2-core output wire routed during stage one.
Secure wiring using clips or trunking as necessary.

In new builds, complete stage one (wiring) before linings go up. Finish stage two (film application) after paint and fittings are in place. In retrofits, both stages can often be completed together.