A photoelectric light sensor is a device that registers the presence of light in an environment to cause a trigger in a light sensing system. Light sensors are separated into two categories: indoor light sensors and outdoor light sensors. Indoor light sensors often use either the ambient light sensor or motion light sensor. Most outdoor light sensors use the motion light sensor.
When purchasing light sensor systems, keep in mind your intended use for the system and buy appropriately. An outdoor lighting security system sometimes comes with lights already connected to the sensors, whereas indoor systems more often require the integration of a light sensor component into the circuitry of the building. Keep the following in mind when purchasing light sensor systems:
1. Indoor light sensor manufacturers with the equipment you need for room light sensing systems
2. Vendors of outdoor light sensors for security and aesthetic purposes
3. Specialized light sensors with custom capabilities
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Purchase motion light sensors and indoor light sensors and save on electricity bills
Indoor light sensors can automatically turn off lights in a room after a set period of inactivity and quickly pay for themselves in saved energy costs. These light sensors come in two main styles: ambient light sensors detect room brightness and adjust interior lighting accordingly; motion light sensor activate when a door opens or a person walks into a room, and deactivate after a set amount of time.
I recommend: Texas Advanced Optoelectronic Solutions sells components for ambient light sensors, and
eLights.com sells many versions of the indoor model of the motion sensor light.
Improve your business' security using outdoor light sensors and light sensor systems
Outdoor light sensors and light sensor systems are a simple way to increase building security - connect them to an alarm system or even a motion detector light for a cheap criminal deterrent. For more aesthetic purposes, install a light sensing system into a garden and keep the outside of your building looking beautiful even in the night. Also, traffic control systems such as traffic light sensors utilize higher-grade outdoor light sensor systems.
I recommend: The Home Security Store sells many outdoor light sensors and automatic outdoor light sensor systems for your security needs. Also,
PLC Multipoint is a quality source for all types of industrial-grade light sensors, such as specialty traffic light sensors and other transportation products.
Choose light sensors with long-range or random surface reflection
Optical sensors come in several styles, each specializing in something different. For example, some have long-range light sensors while others are resistant to random surface reflection.
I recommend: Kanson Electronics has a list of different types and qualities of optical sensors and their electrical specifications. Download or order the
Tri-Tronics catalog of products for information about all types of light sensors, then order light sensors straight from the catalog.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- If you've purchased a system and then find out that it doesn't seem to be working, check to be sure the calibration of the light sensors is accurate. An incorrect calibration means the sensor won't register the brightness of light around it accurately and thus will not function properly.
The official source of Light Sensors is the Light Sensors page at Business.com
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