Motion sensors are indispensable for those who want to reduce the cost of street lighting and make it more functional. In order for devices of this type to automate the backlight system correctly, they must be configured and turned on taking into account conditions and personal needs. For this purpose, you will need to find out which parameters require more thorough tuning, and about the methods.
Options that require proper configuration
The precise adjustment of the motion sensor depends on the correct setting of the most important options. In modern instruments, sensitivity and illumination, installation angle and delay time can be improved. At optimal values, these parameters make it possible to save up to 50% of electricity.
Installation angle
First of all, they regulate the lighting zone of the device - the installation angle. Most modern fixtures are equipped with detectors that are hinged. The angle must be adjusted so that the infrared rays spread over the largest possible area, and it is important to consider the height at which the sensor is located.
Sensitivity
The second most important parameter is the sensitivity of the device, the adjustment of which is considered the most difficult. For adjustment, use a special wheel on the sensor housing with a range from minimum to maximum. The parameter is adjusted so that the detector does not respond to small animals, but immediately triggers if it detects a person. For this purpose, the value is set to the maximum, then they wait for the flashlight to turn off and begin to gradually reduce it to the required level.
Illumination
It is necessary to adjust the illumination so that the device is configured to turn on the light only after dusk. During the initial setup, set the maximum value of the parameter and bring it to the desired value in the evening. If there is no regulator in the detector, you can additionally connect a special sensor to the device.
Setting the on-delay is extremely simple, its time can be in the range from 5 seconds to 10 minutes. The owner of the device must choose the appropriate value. At the first setting, the regulator is set to the minimum mark for a quick check of the parameters.
Customization methods
There are two ways to configure the sensor: hardware, by making changes to the options, and by changing the position.
Hardware
Correct installation of options in hardware is done using the adjustment screws located on the device panel. Usually their number does not exceed three, with each of the elements supplemented with a straight slot for a screwdriver, explaining the inscription and symbol. They make it possible to change the sensitivity, turn-on time and illumination by simply adjusting the screw to the desired level.
Positional
The positioning method is suitable for devices with photovoltaic and microwave elements. It is the main way of tuning for them, because in this case the rays should fall into the main target - the signal receiver. The sensing element of the searchlight has a wide viewing angle, due to which data can enter both the central and side parts, which increases the risk of false alarms of the device. During setup, the type of sensor and luminaire are taken into account.
LED models do not heat up well, so movement devices are placed close to them. Microwave counterparts need a screen that is installed between it and its supporting surface. Modern devices can be positioned by changing the position of their hinges. In addition, a hand lamp is placed in the place of installation of the sensing element so that its light diverges at the desired angle. This makes it possible to quickly increase the coverage area and simplify positioning.
The principle of operation of the motion sensor
A special sensor is installed in the device itself, which detects the radiation of infrared heat from people and animals. Inanimate objects can also emit it, but their temperature is associated with a change in the environment and changes under the influence of artificial or natural heating. The device is able to read such changes due to the lens system with pyrodetectors installed in it, the number of which varies between 20-50 pieces. The higher their number, the more objects the device can recognize.
Each lens is controlled by a specific sector of the general territory, for this reason the coverage angle changes, the value of which is from 60 to 360 degrees. When a moving object falls into the controlled zone, light-on sensors begin to work. In the process of movement, the input and output signals in each individual section begin to change. The light will burn exactly until one of the sensors no longer receives information about temperature changes. After stopping the movement, the input relay is switched off with the light.
The main option of the detectors installed in the sensor is the sensitivity level, which is responsible for removing the object from them. If the movement occurs in only one sector, and the object is too small, the relay will not work, the light will not turn on.
Application area
Using motion sensors, you can control various electronic equipment, such as lighting, as well as air conditioning and security systems in an apartment or on the street. A standard motion sensor is installed in areas with pools, fountains and artificial ponds, as well as at the entrance to the premises. Such devices are present in each alarm system installed at the guarded facility. They are able to register unauthorized entry into the territory, record the leakage of gas or liquid, opening doors or windows.
Sensors are responsible for the recording process in car DVRs and special tracking cameras. Modern models of energy-saving luminaires and “smart” air conditioning systems are also equipped with such sensors. Devices vary in type and degree of sensitivity. Simple devices are turned off after stabilization of thermal and wave characteristics, for example, if the object is in a stationary state for a long time. More highly sensitive analogs respond even to the slightest changes in characteristics. They perform their work more accurately and thoroughly, so the immobility of the object will not be a reason for their shutdown.
Adjustment and regulation of DD to turn on the light
Before setting up the standard motion sensor in the device for lighting, you need to consider that such devices have already been adjusted and configured in the factory. The owner only needs to install and fix it in the right place, as well as connect it to the electric current network. If the settings at the factory do not meet specific conditions, they can be corrected by yourself. The installation process is carried out in compliance with the basic safety rules:
- The phase wire is installed by connecting to the sensor.
- It is carried to the lamp and connected to it using the terminal block.
- Zero is connected simultaneously to two elements.
- Grounding occurs after connecting to the spotlight housing.
The phase circuit is off within the circuit and passes through the motion sensor. When the device detects movement on the street, the contact closes and the current passes to the lamp, after stopping it will open in automatic mode. The sensor and switch can also be installed parallel to each other, but this circuit is considered not the most successful. A connection of this type can adversely affect the operation of the sensor automation system.
During installation, it is necessary to ensure that the sensor elements are directed into the controlled space. After adjustment, you can configure the sensor taking into account all the necessary parameters. Particular attention is paid to two criteria that affect the operation of the device: the distance of action and the angle of deviation vertically and horizontally.
The angle and range parameters are indicated in the passport to the device, they must be set taking into account the already existing values, then adjusted depending on the specific location.
With two controls
In standard models with two regulators, you need to configure only the activation time of the sensor and the inclusion of the spotlight after evening. Setting the time allows you to make the sensor work immediately or after a few minutes. It is also advisable to adjust the device to turn it on after a certain hour or its continuous operation for a full day.
With three knobs
In more modern devices, not three, but three controllers are installed, the third is responsible for setting the clarity of the response to the object in motion. Such devices will cost more, but at the same time they are characterized by high sensitivity.
