Q: What is the difference between a light sensor and a motion sensor light?

Light Sensor : Electronic device that is used to detect light Most light sensors have a photocell or photo resistor that changes the resistance when the light shines on it Detects the amount of light, mainly outdoors, and usually includes a digital or analog electronic circuit Makes a light turn on and off due to the amount of natural light (night or day) Used often for street lights Motion Light Sensor : Electronic device used to detect infrared waves (heat waves) that radiate from moving objects, such as animals, people, cars, ect., that are in its proximity Mostly used in residential areas Check out a Guide to Motion Sensor Lights here!

Question 1

What is the difference between a light sensor and a motion sensor light?

Accepted Answer

Light Sensor:

Electronic device that is used to detect light
Most light sensors have a photocell or photo resistor that changes the resistance when the light shines on it
Detects the amount of light, mainly outdoors, and usually includes a digital or analog electronic circuit
Makes a light turn on and off due to the amount of natural light (night or day)
Used often for street lights

Motion Light Sensor:

Electronic device used to detect infrared waves (heat waves) that radiate from moving objects, such as animals, people, cars, ect., that are in its proximity
Mostly used in residential areas

Check out a Guide to Motion Sensor Lights here!

Question 2

Where would I use a motion detector light?

Accepted Answer

When choosing a light detector, there are different locations where they can be used depending on which type, light, or motion you are using. For a LED light sensor, because they detect light, they are often used in street lights (shoebox fixtures), pathway lighting fixtures, and other outdoor lighting options. Motion sensor lights are more useful in some locations because they are more energy efficient and only turn on when there is movement in its detected area. Motion light detectors are often surface mounted and used in residential areas, lobbies, bathrooms, classrooms, low traffic areas, and on walkways. Keep in mind that the height that you mount your motion detector lights could effect the amount of detection in a given amount of space!

Question 3

What is a photocell sensor and does it detect motion lights?

Accepted Answer

A photocell sensor is a small sensor, also called a CdS cell, photo-resistor, or LDR (light dependent resistor), that allows you to detect the amount of light. These small sensors are inexpensive, use a low amount of power, are easy to use because they turn on by themselves, and they don't wear out, meaning you don't have to worry about maintenance! Because these sensors respond to the amount of light, they often are used in street lights, night lights, flashlights, and even toys.

Question 4

What are the benefits to having a motion sensor?

Accepted Answer

Some of the most useful benefits of installing a light sensor is for their energy efficiency, ability to save you money, and they can practically be installed anywhere! Light sensors can help reduce your annual electricity bill by being able to turn on and off when necessary. There is no accidentally leaving your light on with one of these!

Not only will you be saving there, but you will also save money on maintenance because the increase of life of your lamp will go up! These light sensors are versatile and convenient. They provide light to multiple spaces when needed and detected without you having to lift a finger.

Question 5

Are all lighting sensors hardwired?

Accepted Answer

Most lights are compatible with motion sensor light switches. When replacing a fixture, you typically just replace the sensor along with it. However, if you are replacing only the motion sensor switch, you will need to follow the directions closely to directly wire the new motion sensor to your existing fixture. This can be tricky when working with electrical wires and boxes. Be sure to follow all safety steps before attempting to hardwire your motion sensor light switch. We recommend contacting a licensed professional before attempting any electrical wiring. Check out our complete LED lighting control guide here.

Question 6

Do I need a bracket for my lighting sensor, or is it mounted by itself?

Accepted Answer

Not all motion sensor light switches need to be mounted with a bracket. In some cases, the fixture is enclosed with a bracket already. If you are adding a motion sensor light switch to an existing fixture, you will need to mount the bracket so the motion sensor can properly detect infrared rays and work properly. Learn more about motion sensor switches here!

Question 7

What is the difference from the infrared wall switch and the cover design?

Accepted Answer

An infrared wall switch is designed to turn lights on and off based on occupancy. It can sensor high volume and low volume levels of infrared heat in a room. The cover plate is designed to provide the switch with a stylish aesthetic.

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