Compact panel mounting
G3/8 threaded sensor with a supplied mounting nut and gasket. The body measures approximately 52 x 28.5 x 23 mm.
Enlarge imageTraffic electronics
Mini photocell for traffic applications
Our mini photocell is a compact, wire-in controller that switches a connected load in response to ambient light. It gives manufacturers a straightforward way to add dusk-to-dawn operation to illuminated signs, street furniture and other electronic equipment.
The threaded sensor mounts through the equipment panel, while the compact controller body sits inside the enclosure. A mounting nut, gasket and three flying leads are supplied. The specifications shown here apply to the 230 V AC version.
Key features
Automatic dusk-to-dawn switching
Typical turn-on level of 10–16 lux, with a typical turn-off ratio of 1:1.5 and an included time delay.
Switched AC output
Three-wire connection for supply live, neutral and switched live to the load, with zero-cross switching.
Options for your equipment
Custom lux levels, wire colours, lead lengths, terminations and OEM branding are available on request.
Technical specifications
Product specifications and configuration options for your equipment.
Download datasheet · PDF, 2.6 MB| Version described | 230 V AC |
|---|---|
| Nominal supply systems | 120–277 V AC |
| Operating voltage | 105–305 V AC |
| Supply frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Turn-on level | 10–16 lux typical |
| Turn-off ratio | 1:1.5 typical |
| Time delay | Included |
| Rated load | 1000 W / 1800 VA maximum, subject to load type and the applicable current limit |
| Electronic ballast current rating | 5 A |
| Switching | Zero-cross |
| Operating temperature | -40 to +70 °C |
| Power consumption | ≤0.7 W at 120 V AC |
| Sensor | IR-filtered phototransistor |
| Standard leads | 18 AWG, approximately 160 mm |
| Mounting thread | G3/8 |
| Mounting hole | Ø18.0 ±1 mm |
| Body dimensions | Approximately 52 mm high x 28.5 mm wide x 23 mm deep |
| Overall depth | 45 mm including the threaded sensor section |
| Supplied fittings | Mounting nut and gasket |
Mechanical drawing and connections
Standard lead colours
| Lead | Connection |
|---|---|
| Red | Load - switched live |
| Black | Line - supply live |
| White | Neutral |
Designing it into your equipment
These are the standard lead colours. Customised units are supplied with the wiring schedule for their specified configuration.
The output is a switched AC live. We can support load matching, electrical protection and enclosure integration for your equipment.
These lead functions apply to the mini photocell. Other controllers and customised versions have their own wiring schedules.
Suggested traffic applications
Illuminated traffic and information signs
Switch suitable sign lighting on as daylight falls and off when ambient light returns.
Illuminated bollards and street furniture
Build automatic lighting control into a suitable housing without adding a separate external controller.
Signage and lighting enclosures
Add a small panel-mounted sensor to new equipment or an appropriate retrofit design.
Light-dependent control functions
Provide a dusk-to-dawn trigger for equipment through a suitably rated load or control interface.
Integration and available options
The threaded sensor and compact controller body are designed for integration into signs, street furniture and roadside lighting enclosures. We can help with panel mounting, sensor positioning and the internal space needed for the controller and connections.
Our technical support covers supply and load matching, including running current, inrush and start-up behaviour. The voltage, current, wattage and VA limits apply together; the quoted power ratings do not override the 5 A current limit.
The 230 V AC version provides a switched-live output for compatible lighting loads. We can review interface requirements where the output needs to connect to a separate control circuit. It is an on/off controller, not a dimming output, a direct low-voltage sensor input or a traffic-signal safety controller.
We can support the enclosure, electrical protection and connection arrangements for the intended application. Traffic-signal safety functions and any illumination required for safe operation remain independent of this dusk-to-dawn switching function.
Options and customisation
Custom lux levels, wire colours, lead lengths, terminations and OEM branding are available on request.
We can work with your supply, load and enclosure requirements to develop a suitable configuration for your equipment. Get in touch to discuss the options and request a quote.
Discuss your equipment with us
Tell us about the supply, interfaces and enclosure your project needs.
Enquire about the mini photocell