Question 1

What is CLiC?

Accepted Answer

CLiC is a powered, switchable privacy glass. It's an exciting new technology for creating on-demand privacy in homes, offices, and healthcare facilities. CLiC combines the most advanced liquid crystal science with Cardinal Glass Industries' proven expertise in glass manufacturing and fabrication. When it comes to privacy, clarity, switching speed and durability, CLiC stands alone.

Question 2

Where can I install CLiC glass and CLiC-containing products?

Accepted Answer

CLiC has both residential and non-residential applications.

CLiC can be used in virtually any residential exterior glazing application where standard insulating glass is used. Residential applications include entry doors, sidelights and picture windows, windows facing public access spaces such as streets, parks and beaches, and bathroom windows, to name a few. CLiC can also be used for interior spaces that may serve dual functions - such as home office dividers and loft partitions.

It's currently available in hinged doors, pivot doors, sidelights, and casement windows.

In non-residential environments, CLiC is designed for interior use. Commercial installations include conference rooms, executive offices, storefront systems, and throughout indoor hospitality environments. Healthcare installations include exam, procedure, and monitoring rooms.

Question 3

Can I retrofit CLiC into my existing home or building?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Doors, windows and partitions with CLiC privacy glass can be installed as simple replacements or as part of remodeling projects. It may also be possible to retrofit CLiC glass into an existing window, door, or partition unit. Retrofit feasibility depends on the frame, power access and glass thickness — consult your manufacturer that offers CLiC in their products for compatibility.

Question 4

Where can I get pricing and buy CLiC windows, doors and partitions?

Accepted Answer

CLiC is available through many premier window, door, and partition manufacturers that offer CLiC. Refer to the partial listing of those manufacturers [here](/#find-clic).

Question 5

Where can I see CLiC displayed/demonstrated?

Accepted Answer

You can see CLiC in the showrooms of the leading [manufacturers that offer CLiC](/#find-clic) and at industry shows such as the International Builders' Show.

Question 6

I'm a professional. How can I specify and order CLiC?

Accepted Answer

Head to the [Resources](https://www.clicglass.com/resources) section for the information you'll need to sell, procure, and install windows, doors and partition powered by CLiC. Professionals will also find cut sheets, CAD files, and 3-part specification content to specify and design for CLiC solutions.

Question 7

What is involved in installing a window, door or partition powered by CLiC?

Accepted Answer

Installing CLiC glass products requires additional steps not generally needed with conventional window, door and partition installation. That's because of the low voltage power that switches the glass from clear to private and communicates with the user interface for control.  Wiring will need to be run from the CLiC controller to both the CLiC glass and the user control device.

You can find a project plan checklist and installation instructions in the [Resources](https://www.clicglass.com/resources) section.

Question 8

How does CLiC create privacy?

Accepted Answer

CLiC uses polymer-stabilized liquid crystal (PSCT) technology. When electrical current is applied, the liquid crystals align to allow light to pass through clearly, making the glass transparent. When the electrical current is turned off, the liquid crystals scatter into random orientations, diffusing light and creating a translucent, frosted appearance. This transition happens in milliseconds and provides full visual privacy while still transmitting natural daylight into the space. CLiC's technology eliminates the haze and slow transitions of older smart glass technologies such as PDLC. Participating CLiC manufacturers sell the necessary CLiC low voltage power units that are engineered for ease of installation.

Question 9

Does the CLiC unit reduce light transmittance?

Accepted Answer

In the clear state, CLiC allows a high level of visible light transmittance comparable to standard insulating glass. In the private state, CLiC still transmits a significant amount of diffused natural light into the room, maintaining a bright and comfortable environment even when privacy is engaged. The exact transmittance values depend on the glass configuration and coatings selected.

Question 10

What is the maximum and minimum size of CLiC glass panels?

Accepted Answer

CLiC is available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate most architectural glazing needs from 1.8 - 50 square feet. The following table details the available sizes (all three constraints must be met):

All CLiC units are made to order and custom dimensions are available. Contact your favorite premier window, door, or partition manufacturer offering CLiC to discuss your unique project.

Question 11

What is the overall thickness of CLiC?

Accepted Answer

The overall thickness of CLiC for interior uses is 9.9mm. For exterior uses, CLiC is built into the insulating glass unit by replacing the inner pane of glass. A CLiC-powered insulating glass unit can range from 3/4 inch up to 2 inches overall, making CLiC insulating units compatible with standard residential exterior window, doors and framing systems without requiring special modifications.

Question 12

How fast does CLiC switch?

Accepted Answer

CLiC switches between clear and private states in under 100 milliseconds. The transition from private to clear is nearly instantaneous when power is applied. The transition from clear to private when power is removed is equally rapid. This fast-switching speed allows for responsive control of privacy in any setting.

Question 13

How is CLiC controlled?

Accepted Answer

CLiC can be switched from clear to private through multiple methods to suit different installation requirements. Options include wall-mounted switches, smart switches with phone apps, wireless remote controls, building automation systems, smart home platforms, or timer-based scheduling solutions. Multiple CLiC panels can be controlled individually or grouped together for zone control. The low-voltage power system makes integration with existing building controls universal and straightforward.

Question 14

How much power does CLiC use?

Accepted Answer

CLiC is extremely energy-efficient, consuming less than 1/3 watt per square foot in the clear state.  In a typical residential window, that’s comparable to a small LED light. In the private state, CLiC consumes virtually zero power since it requires no electricity to maintain the private state. The low power consumption makes CLiC a cost-effective privacy solution with negligible impact on energy bills.

Question 15

What happens if the CLiC unit loses power?

Accepted Answer

If power is interrupted, CLiC defaults to the private (translucent) state. This fail-safe design ensures that privacy is maintained during power outages. The glass will automatically return to the clear state once power is restored. This default-to-private behavior is a built-in safety feature that is especially valuable in healthcare, hospitality, and residential privacy applications.

Question 16

Can I leave CLiC in clear state or in private state all the time?

Accepted Answer

If you choose, yes. There is no system limit to how long you can leave it in either state.

Question 17

How reliable and durable is CLiC?

Accepted Answer

CLiC glass and electronics are engineered and built to ensure consistent performance for years to come. Unlike aftermarket films applied to window glass, including switchable privacy films, CLiC glass is part of the window, door, or partition warranty because it was designed and built into the glass right at the factory.

Check with your participating manufacturer of windows, doors and partitions for their warranty information.

Question 18

How well does CLiC provide acoustical privacy?

Accepted Answer

CLiC insulating glass units provide sound attenuation comparable to, or better than, standard insulating glass units. The laminated construction of the switchable layer adds mass and damping that increases acoustical performance.  In a monolithic unit, CLiC provides a Sound Transmission Class rating (STC) of 38 and an Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class rating (OTC) of 33. These values even increase when incorporated into an insulating glass unit.

Question 19

How do I maintain the CLiC unit?

Accepted Answer

CLiC requires no special maintenance beyond standard glass cleaning. Clean the glass surfaces with a mild, non-abrasive glass cleaner and a soft cloth, just as you would any other glass in windows or doors. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive pads, or razor blades on the glass surface. The electrical connections should be inspected periodically by a qualified electrician as part of routine building maintenance.

Question 20

Is the liquid crystal safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the liquid crystal material used in CLiC is completely safe. It is permanently sealed between two layers of glass in a laminated construction, so there is no exposure to occupants under normal use. The materials meet all applicable safety standards for building products. In the unlikely event of glass breakage, the laminated construction holds the glass fragments together, like automotive safety glass, preventing dangerous shards from separating.

Question 21

Who is Cardinal Glass Industries?

Accepted Answer

Cardinal Glass Industries is one of the largest glass fabricators in North America, with over 40 years of experience manufacturing high-performance residential and commercial glass products. Cardinal operates multiple manufacturing facilities across the United States and is known for its advanced glass coating technologies, including LoĒ glass products. CLiC is developed and manufactured by Cardinal IG Company, leveraging Cardinal's deep expertise in insulating glass fabrication and quality control.

Answers for Common Questions