Magnetic track

A magnetic track is a thin low-voltage busbar (usually 48 V DC) to which light fittings attach by magnet. They can be removed, moved and swapped without tools or switching off the power. It is the evolution of the classic track system: the profile is noticeably slimmer and calmer in appearance, and the range of modules is wider.

How it works. The profile (aluminium, with live conductors) is fed 48 V from a separate power supply; the fixture clicks onto the magnet and makes contact. Profiles come surface-mounted, suspended, recessed in plasterboard, flush-plastered (hidden under the filler) and for stretch ceilings. Section lengths vary by manufacturer, from 1 m upwards; the track can be cut to size and joined with straight and corner connectors.

What to hang on it. Spotlights of different beam angles (narrow to accent artwork, wide for general light), linear modules, track pendants, "flash" fixtures and small lights for shelving. The low voltage makes the system safer to touch, and fittings can be changed by season or scene. Dimmable versions are controlled from a phone or remote and fit into smart-home scenes.

Before buying. You need a 48 V power supply of the right capacity, placed above the ceiling in an accessible spot or in a niche with an access hatch. Size the supply with headroom over the total load of the fittings. Systems from different makers are generally not compatible: buy profile and fixtures from one series, and make sure the range is wide and will still be available in a year. The track must be planned before the final ceiling: the profile is built in at the plasterboard or stretch-ceiling stage, not added later.

When to choose it and when not. A magnetic track is good where lighting should stay flexible: a living room with a changing layout, an open-plan kitchen-living room, a gallery wall, a shop, a cafe. If the ceiling is fixed and the lighting scenario will not change, ordinary spots and linear profiles are enough and cheaper. For very wet areas (showers) choose only products with a suitable IP rating.

Typical mistakes: a line too long for one power supply; a cheap track with no power reserve; fixtures without glare control, which dazzle; no access to the power supply. In the Besagash apartment (67 m²) we used tracks as part of the lighting. We place the track on the lighting plan and control scheme, show the power supplies' locations, and agree the fixtures before the ceilings are built.