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Motion sensors to turn on lights: a surefire way to save energy
Initially, motion tracking devices were used to guard various objects and territories. Today, many people prefer to install motion sensors in an apartment or house to turn on the light, which not only provide convenience in using lighting systems, but also significantly save energy. What types of sensors exist and how to properly install devices will be discussed in this article.
Motion sensors to turn on the lights save a lot of energy
The motion sensor is represented by a round or rectangular plastic box, in the central part of which there is a window covered with a special plastic matte film called a Fresnel lens. The material is quite sensitive, therefore it requires careful installation and careful operation. Through this window, using infrared waves, the movement of an object in the monitoring area is tracked.
The field of view of the motion sensor is limited not only by the angle of its action, but also by the range of perception of the sensor
How does a motion sensor work? Its principle of operation is to close the power circuit at the moment of catching the slightest movement in the control sector. The field of view is limited not only by the angle of the device, but also by the range of perception of the sensor.
The device records the level of infrared radiation. If an object with an elevated temperature appears in its control zone, the sensor perceives several impulses affecting the circuit, as a result, the lighting is turned on. As soon as the pulses cease to arrive, the circuit is broken and the electricity is turned off.
Important!The motion sensor differs from the presence sensor in that the latter will react even to a draft or a small rodent, including lighting.
Sensors for turning on the light are presented in a wide range, which allows you to use a specific type in a specific situation. The devices increase the security of the facility, therefore, they are a mandatory element for the security system.
Incorrect installation and adjustment of the motion sensor will negatively affect the efficiency of its operation.
Motion detectors for turning on the light have certain advantages. They can significantly save energy. The devices provide maximum ease of use for lighting fixtures. Eliminates the need to search for the switch in the dark. They can work from a network or be wireless, they are used to turn on not only lighting devices, but also a TV, a music center, a coffee maker and other devices.
The disadvantages of such smart devices include their high cost. When installing motion sensors to turn on the light, you must choose the right place, which will ensure the maximum range of action, and strictly follow certain installation rules.
Important!The wrong approach to the installation of devices will negatively affect the efficiency of their work, causing errors in operation.
Types of motion sensors to turn on the light according to different criteria
Depending on the place of installation, light sensors can be outdoor or indoor. A street lamp equipped with a motion detector to turn on the lighting has a wide range of operation, up to 500 m. Some expensive models are characterized by higher sensitivity. Such devices exhibit increased susceptibility to temperature fluctuations. Outdoor motion detectors for turning on the light are equipped with IP44-IP65 protection degree.
Depending on the location, light sensors can be both outdoor and indoor.
The household appliance is designed for indoor use. It is not protected from temperature changes, so it cannot be installed outdoors.
The sensor can be external or built-in. The first option is mounted using different brackets in any design. A distinction is made between wall attachments and ceiling attachments, which are installed on a suspended ceiling. The built-in motion sensor is installed in a box under the switch or can be integrated into furniture.
Important!There are multifunctional devices represented by motion and light sensors.
Depending on the type of power supply, a distinction is made between devices powered by a network, rechargeable battery or batteries. According to the device, there are single-position sensors, where the receiver and transmitter are installed in one place, two-position (elements are mounted in different zones) and multi-position, representing a system with several receivers and transmitters located in different places.
By the type of power supply, light sensors are divided into devices that operate on a rechargeable battery, mains or batteries
Based on the principle of operation, infrared, ultrasonic, microwave and combined motion sensors are distinguished.
Feature of Ultrasonic Motion Sensors for Lighting
The principle of operation of an ultrasonic-type motion sensor is based on capturing the reflected signal at the time of ultrasound radiation. The sensor is activated when the signal is triggered.
An ultrasound generator is located inside the structure, which is characterized by a frequency of 20-60 kHz. The receiver receives the reflected ultrasound. When movement occurs in the field of action of the sensor, due to the Doppler effect, the signal frequency changes. The vibration data is processed, and when the set level is exceeded, the actuator is triggered.
Such sensors can work in any atmospheric conditions, which allows you to install the device outside to illuminate the yard. The device remains operational even at high humidity and excessive dust. Work efficiency is not affected by the material of the moving object. Such indoor or outdoor motion detectors are inexpensive.
The ultrasonic type motion sensor works on the principle that is based on capturing the reflected signal at the moment of ultrasound radiation
Important!Ultrasonic devices scare away mice with frequent false signals.
12 Volt ultrasonic motion sensors are widely used in automatic parking systems as reversing detectors and to monitor the blind spots of a car.
Among the disadvantages of the device is the fact that ultrasound creates discomfort for pets. They become aggressive, disobedient, character changes and psychological disorders are observed. It is sometimes used to scare away dogs. Even a person may experience a headache if they are in the range of the device for a long time.
Such sensors do not have a long detection range. Devices only respond to fast movements. They can be easily fooled by moving slowly and smoothly. However, you can set the maximum sensitivity threshold, which will allow the sensor to trigger when the slightest movement is detected. In this case, there is a possibility of an increase in the number of false signals.
Ultrasonic motion sensors do not have a long detection range
Distinctive features of infrared motion sensors to turn on the light
The principle of operation of infrared motion sensors to turn on the light is to change the thermal radiation during the movement of the object. Any living creature or other object, for example, a car, emits thermal or infrared rays, captured by a system of mirrors or lenses, of which there are 20-60 pieces. Passing through this system, the rays hit the sensor.
There are two sensors in the body of the device, which monitor the temperature in different places. When there are no movements in the range of the device, the signals are the same. At the moment of movement of the heated body, the signals differ, as a result of which the device is triggered.
The maximum sensitivity threshold of the device is reached at the moment the object moves along the sensor, from left to right or vice versa. This feature should be taken into account in order to avoid the occurrence of "dead" zones.
Among the advantages of the infrared motion sensor for light, one can highlight the precise adjustment of the control zone. The device does not react to a draft in the room or to swaying trees outside. During operation, the device does not emit anything, therefore it does not cause discomfort and does not harm the health of humans and animals.
Infrared sensors work on the principle that the thermal radiation changes during the movement of the object
However, the sensor can be triggered by the movement of warm air from a radiator or air conditioner. The device is susceptible to the effects of atmospheric precipitation and ultraviolet rays, which impair the accuracy of its operation outdoors. It cannot work effectively not only at high ambient temperatures, since such radiation merges with heat pulses emanating from humans and animals, but also at low temperatures, which helps to cool clothes and skin, causing weak radiation.
Important! Such a sensor can be tricked by hiding behind a screen or wearing a suit that does not allow heat rays to pass through.
The principle of operation and characteristics of the microwave motion sensor
The principle of operation of a motion sensor for microwave illumination is similar to the mechanism of operation of an ultrasonic device, but instead of a sound wave, an electromagnetic one is used.The most common radiation frequency is 58 Hz. The device is triggered when the frequency of the reflected signal changes. This is due to the Doppler effect when movement occurs in the range of the device. The microprocessor processes the changes and the device fires.
Such a device is distinguished by its compact dimensions, as a result of which it can be hidden during installation. The microwave sensor has a long range, which is determined by the power of the microwave transmitter and the sensitivity of the receiver. This option is often used as a camera with a motion sensor.
Microwave motion sensor has a long range
External environmental factors do not negatively affect the efficiency of the device, therefore such a device is suitable for outdoor installation. Its coverage extends even behind a partition made of any material.
Among the disadvantages of a household or outdoor microwave-type motion sensor, it is worth highlighting the high sensitivity of the device, which will falsely operate behind a door or window, harm to humans and animals from prolonged exposure to microwave and high cost.
Helpful advice!The microwave light sensor should be installed in areas with minimum human traffic.
Other types of motion sensors based on the principle of operation
There is a combined version of the sensor, which can combine in one device the symbiosis of different types of device, where the disadvantages of one type are compensated by the advantages of another. Such sensors provide more accurate and efficient operation, provide full control in the coverage area. Each model is characterized by the presence of individual settings. CCTV cameras with a motion sensor are represented by this version of the device.
Cotton sensors are very popular; they are installed in rooms with a low level of stationary noise.
The main disadvantage of such a device is its high cost. The combination sensor must be installed by a specialist. If one of the systems fails, a complete changeover of the device will have to be performed.
Cotton sensors are gaining more and more popularity, which can be used not only to control lighting, but also to operate the ventilation system and electrical equipment. With the first pop, the voltage is turned on, and with the second, it is turned off. It is advisable to install such a sensor in rooms with a low level of stationary noise. It is ideal for basement, utility room, storage room, bedroom and children's room. This device should not be used in workshops, production rooms, offices and other crowded areas.
Helpful advice!The best solution is to install a cotton sensor in the nursery, which will allow the child to quickly turn on the light, providing him with comfort and safety.
The acoustic presence sensor also reacts to the sound to turn on the light. The main thing is to set the sensitivity threshold correctly. Such a device is often installed in entrances to save energy. The light turns on when a door slams or the sound of a person's footsteps and turns off a few seconds after everything has died down.
Combined versions of motion sensors combine different types of waves
Standard Features of Motion Sensors for Light Switching
Each type of sensor has its own characteristics, but there are standard characteristics that are the same for all devices. The devices operate on a voltage of 220-240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz. The delay timer ranges from 2 to 8 seconds. The voltage supply time can be set using the regulator.The response speed of the motion sensor for guarding and turning on the light is 0.5-1.5 ms.
All sensors have a light sensitivity from 2 to 1000 Lx, set on a switch. Simple models have two modes of operation. For expensive devices, the degree of illumination can be unlimited.
The range of the device reaches 15 m. In combined devices, this parameter can be increased. The viewing angle ranges from 20 to 360 degrees. The maximum value is typical for ceiling models. Wall mounted devices have a viewing angle of 100 to 180 degrees. The maximum current may differ for different models, but does not exceed 1.5 kW. An electromagnetic relay detects the power of the load.
Some device models have additional functions. For automatic switching on of lighting devices exclusively in the dark, the device can have a built-in light sensor. To prevent the light from falsely lighting up in case of movement of cats and dogs, the motion sensor for alarm can be supplemented with an option of protection from animals. It will not trigger when an individual weighing up to 25 kg appears.
Motion sensors for turning on the light can be mounted either separately or located in the lighting device itself
The motion sensor can be equipped with a light-off delay function. This is great for different situations. For example, if a person enters the bathroom or toilet and does not move for a while, the light will not go out immediately, which will not create discomfort for the eyes in the event of a play of light.
How to choose the right light sensor: useful tips
When choosing a motion sensor to turn on the lighting, first of all, you should decide where the device will be installed and how it will be mounted. Depending on this, an outdoor or household, outdoor or built-in detector is selected.
The next criterion is the choice of a device according to the power of the lighting device to which it will be connected. In the case of using several luminaires, to which one sensor will be connected, their total power is taken into account. Motion sensors are available with an operating voltage of 200 W and more.
Important!It is imperative to provide for a power reserve of at least 20%.
When choosing a motion sensor to turn on the light, you need to know that devices are of both street and household types.
The next parameter is the viewing angle, which can be in the range of 20-360 degrees. Devices with a small value of this parameter are suitable for switching on lighting at the entrance to an entrance, apartment, room, stairs or path. Devices with the maximum possible viewing angle scan the area around. A security motion sensor should have this parameter. It is necessary to pay attention to the range of the device, which is from 2 to 50 m.
Motion detectors can be used with any bulbs (LED, halogen, energy saving, fluorescent) and various lighting fixtures. However, there are two-pole devices that are combined exclusively with incandescent lamps. For all others, three-pole devices are used. Many manufacturers produce lampholders and switches with built-in motion sensors to turn on the light. It is not difficult to install such a device with your own hands.
Choosing a location for the motion sensor to turn on the light
Before proceeding with the installation of the motion sensor, you should choose the right place for its installation, which will exclude false alarms and the formation of "dead" zones. Here it is important not only to determine the necessary control zone, but also to avoid factors that will negatively affect the well-coordinated and effective operation of the device. The choice of a place is also carried out taking into account the location of the wiring in case of a need to connect the device to it.
The motion sensor for turning on the light in the apartment should not be located near a radiator, sources of central or electric heating, hot water pipelines, air conditioners and other thermal or electrical appliances that emit electromagnetic interference. This neighborhood will allow the device to constantly turn on the lighting.
The optimum height for the correct operation of the motion sensor is 2.4 m
Important!A motion sensor to turn on the light should not be placed in a kitchen where there is a microwave oven, which will interfere with the efficiency of the device.
The device should not be installed opposite a window, as this will cause false alarms of the device. It is better to place it in a corner area on a wall or ceiling. Indoors, the sensor should be directed towards the front door. The optimum height for accurate operation of the device without failures is 2.5 m.
When installing the device outdoors, look for the surroundings. In this case, the main parameter is the viewing angle of the device. The sensor should cover as much space as possible without leaving any blind spots. A load-bearing wall of a building or a lantern support is suitable for its installation.
How to connect a motion sensor to a light bulb: action algorithm
Before connecting the motion sensor for lighting, you need to prepare the device itself, an electrical plug, an indicator, a bulb with a socket, a screw clamp, a wire and a stripping tool.
Before connecting a motion sensor for lighting, you need to prepare the device itself, as well as the necessary tool for this
The first step is to directly connect the light bulb to the outlet. Then, to test the device's functionality, the sensor is connected to an open circuit.
The ends of the electrical wire must be connected to the plug. Stripping of cable products is performed with a special stripping tool. The cartridge is installed from the opposite side. The light comes on.
The phase is determined in the socket using indicator screwdriver... To make sure that the lamp is on, the plug is inserted into the outlet. Next, you need to install the motion sensor in the wire break. For this, the power supply is cut off. Both strands of wires are cut and the ends are cleaned.
At the next stage, the motion sensor is installed with your own hands in the break of the supply wire. Based on the instructions that come with the device, it is necessary to pass the phase through the sensor to the light bulb and bring zero to it for power. The phase passes through the brown wire, exits the red one and is fed to the light bulb. The connections are made with a screw terminal.
There is a connection block under the sensor cover, three colored contacts are connected to it, coming out of the housing
Any sensor has two rheostats. The first is responsible for the time period of the day. To the left of it is the sun, to the right is the moon. If the sensor will be used during the light period of the day, install it on the image of the sun. When used for night lighting, it should look at the moon.
The second rheostat controls the shutdown time of the device. Its minimum position indicates a 5-second shutdown. After setting up the device, the plug is inserted into the socket, taking into account the previously defined polarity. A hand movement is performed so that the sensor turns on the light. Further, no movements are made for the device to turn off the light.
Important!The wiring diagram for a motion sensor with a switch involves connecting the device, switch and lighting in parallel.
Detailed wiring diagram for motion sensors
If the room is curved, one motion sensor cannot cover the entire space. In this case, it is necessary to install several motion sensors, the scheme of which assumes their parallel connection.As a result, when the object moves anywhere in the room, one of the devices will work, while closing the circuit, which will supply voltage to the lighting device.
According to the instructions for the device, it is necessary to pass the phase through the sensor to the light bulb and bring zero to it for power
Important!This connection method requires connecting the lamp and sensors from the same phase, which will eliminate the formation of a short circuit.
The sensors are installed in such places that the maximum viewing angle of the territory is provided, excluding the shielding of windows, doors, furniture and decor. Motion sensors have a permissible power value of 500-1000 W.
Important!If several powerful lighting devices need to be connected to the sensor, a magnetic starter is installed.
Under the sensor cover there is a connection block, to which three colored contacts are connected, coming out of the housing. The wires are connected to the connecting clamps. In the case of using a multicore cable, special ferrules are used.
After connecting the wires, you need to put on the cover and go to the connection of cable products in the junction box
The current is supplied to the sensor through two wires: phase - brown, zero - blue. The phase leaves the sensor and is directed to one contact of the bulb. The second cable from it is connected to the zero terminal.
After completing the connection of the wires, put on the cover and proceed to the connection of the cable products in the junction box. 9 wires are connected to it: three from the sensor, two from the light bulb, zero and a cable for connecting to the network.
The wires are connected in a specific sequence. The phase is combined with the device phase cable and the wire from the switch with the motion sensor. Next, the sensor zero, the lighting lamp and the power cable are connected. The three remaining wires: two brown from the switch and the lamp, one red from the sensor - are combined with each other.
Setting up after connecting the motion sensor
After installing the device and completing its connection, the motion sensor is adjusted with the adjustment of its operating parameters for the correct and efficient operation of the equipment.
Adjustment of the motion sensor according to the degree of illumination, carried out using the LUX relay
The function of setting the delay for turning off the TIME device will allow you to set the required period during which the sensor will not turn off the light. The value range is 5-600 seconds. Here the speed of movement of a person in the sensor's sensitivity zone plays an important role. If a person passes this period quickly, the minimum time value is set.
The adjustment of the device operation, depending on the degree of illumination, is carried out using the LUX relay. The required threshold is set at which the sensor will be triggered even in the daytime. Here you should select the minimum or average value on the scale. The maximum or minimum level is set in case of a small or large amount of natural light in the room.
The SENS regulator is used to set the level of sensitivity of the device to triggering, which depends on the size and distance of the object. To do this, the operation of the device is checked for each family member, after which the optimal value is selected. If false alarms of the sensor are observed, it is better to lower the sensitivity level. In the event of a device failure or malfunction of one of its parameters, the repair of the motion sensor should be entrusted to a specialist, which will guarantee its correct operation later.
Important!If the device was configured during the summer time, it should be reconfigured for winter time - and vice versa.
The sensitivity of the device to triggering is set using the SENS regulator
Review of popular models of motion sensors
A good model is the ARLIGHT MW14 microwave sensor with a maximum viewing angle of 360 °. The range of the device is 8 m. For it, you can set the shutdown time delay for 10-12 s. You can buy a model for 1000 rubles.
One of the best infrared motion detectors is the Camelion LX-39 / Wh. The viewing angle of the device is 180 °. The equipment is wall-mounted. The range of the device reaches 12 m. It is equipped with built-in sensors that regulate the level of illumination, sensitivity and time delay of shutdown up to 5 minutes. The price of a motion sensor for turning on the light is 560 rubles.
A good model that is rated for a 500 W light source is the Feron SEN50 sensor. The device is ceiling-mounted with a 320 ° viewing angle. The device is equipped with a sensor for adjusting the degree of illumination in the range of 3-2000 Lx. The Off Delay option allows the unit to be configured for a period of 5 to 420 seconds. The protection class of the sensor is IP44. The cost of the device is 500 rubles.
The MS-39 EKF infrared sensor is popular. The range of the device reaches 7 m. The model is equipped with a built-in sensor that controls the sensitivity, light level and response delay up to 10 minutes. The price of the motion sensor is 430 rubles.
The Camelion LX-39 / Wh model is considered one of the best infrared motion sensors.
The infrared motion sensor of the wall-ceiling type IEK deserves attention. Thanks to the IP44 protection class against adverse conditions, the device can be installed outdoors. The range of the device is 10 m, the viewing angle is 120 °. You can buy a motion sensor for 400 rubles.
Characteristic of a luminaire with a motion sensor
A motion sensor for turning on the light can be purchased not only separately with its subsequent connection to the lighting device, but also immediately complete with the lamp. Such a device consists of a lamp, a sensor that detects the movement of an object, and a controller, as shown in the motion sensor diagram, to turn on the light. A sensor in the coverage area observes the situation and, after detecting the slightest movement, sends a signal to the controller.
Important!There are models of luminaires that have built-in photosensitive diodes that act as light sensors, activating the robot of the device only in the dark period of the day, turning it off in the daytime.
Luminaires with a motion sensor are distinguished by the type of action, the type of illuminator, the nature of the power supply and the presence of protection from external influences. According to the principle of motion detection, infrared, ultrasonic, radio frequency and induction models are distinguished. The first type scans the space for the presence of infrared radiation. Ultrasonic devices work by changing the frequency of the signal when an object is detected.
Luminaires with a motion sensor are divided by the type of illuminator, the nature of the power supply, the type of action and the presence of protection against external influences
Radio frequency devices, thanks to electromagnetic radiation, are able to detect an object both in an open area and behind a non-metallic partition. Induction devices work according to the capacitive method. The principle of operation of different options is shown on the diagrams of motion sensors combined with lamps.
As a light source in luminaires with a motion sensor, an LED, fluorescent or incandescent lamp can be used. The first option is considered the most demanded and popular, which is associated with efficiency and durability. The lamp is the light source that is closest to the natural solar spectrum.
Fluorescent lamps have good light output, long service life, low operating temperature, but they provide cold light and do not like frequent switching on. A traditional filament lamp with a filament has the lowest efficiency.
By the type of power supply, stationary, mains-powered and stand-alone lamps are distinguished, which are powered by a rechargeable battery or batteries. The degree of protection against external factors depends on the device belonging to one of the IP (XY) classes. The higher the value, the better the device is protected from moisture, dust and UV radiation.
Luminaires with a motion sensor use an LED, fluorescent or incandescent lamp as the light source
Overview of LED luminaires with motion sensor for indoor and outdoor use
Among the wide range of LED luminaires with DD for residential premises, one can single out the popular CAN MEІ JIA 5730 5W model. The device is equipped with an ultrasonic motion sensor. The viewing angle of the device reaches 120 °. The luminaire provides cool white light. It is advisable to install it on stairwells, in corridors, near entrance doors. MTBF is 50 thousand hours. The price of the device is 670 rubles.
A good light with an infrared sensor is the 8-LED 8W model. The operating angle of the device is 120 °. The model provides natural white light that is comfortable for living spaces. Such a lamp can work up to 80 thousand hours. You can buy a lamp with a motion sensor for 620 rubles.
Among LED luminaires with a microwave motion sensor, the 8W Buld MS 8W model deserves attention. The operating angle of the device is 140 °. It can work 30 thousand hours. The price of a lighting device with DD is 560 rubles.
Globo Projеcteur model with one LED lamp provides neutral white light
Among the outdoor options, consider the Globo 3723 wall lamp with an IP44 protection level against external factors. LED lamps in the amount of 22 pcs. provide white light. The luminaire is capable of covering an area of 0.7 m2. You can buy a lamp for 520 rubles.
A good spotlight with DD is the Globo Projеcteur 34219S with one LED lamp providing neutral white light. The protection class against external factors of the device is IP65. The motion sensor can illuminate an area of 10 m2. The price of the lighting device is 730 rubles.
Installing a motion sensor to turn on the lighting is the first step towards arranging a "smart home", which has a beneficial effect on the quality of life and saves energy resources. Knowing the types of devices and taking into account the selection criteria, you can choose the most suitable option, which is easy to install yourself. Correct adjustment of the motion sensor to turn on the light will ensure the most efficient and correct operation.
