Dusk to Dawn Photocell and PIR (Passive Infrared) Sensor are both used for lighting control but serve different functions and offer unique advantages based on their applications.

Dusk to Dawn Photocell

A Dusk to Dawn Photocell measures natural light in the environment, automatically turning lights on at dusk (when it gets dark) and off at dawn (when it gets bright again).

Advantages:

• Automatic Day/Night Operation: Ensures lights are only on when needed, ideal for outdoor environments such as parking lots, street lights, and building exteriors.
• Energy Savings: Automatically turns off lights during daylight, preventing unnecessary energy use.
• Convenience: No manual intervention needed, making it a set-and-forget solution.
• Reliability: Operates continuously without the need for adjustment or motion triggers, providing consistent illumination all night.

JC-LGL’s wall pack light series, including led wall pack lights, mini wall pack lights, and full cutoff outdoor wall lights, are equipped with this sensor. Installing this sensor not only provides more flexible and automatic usage but also better conserves electricity, enhancing user experience while saving on unnecessary costs.

PIR Sensor (Passive Infrared Sensor)

A PIR sensor detects motion through infrared radiation emitted by objects (usually people or animals) within its sensing area. When motion is detected, the light turns on and remains on for a set period; if no further motion is detected, it turns off.

Advantages:

• Motion Activation: Lights only turn on when presence is detected, ideal for security purposes in areas like entrances, corridors, or inside buildings.
• Energy Efficiency: Lights up only when motion is detected, saving energy by preventing the lights from staying on all night.
• Enhanced Security: Often used for detecting intruders or unusual activities, making it popular in security-priority areas.

JC-LGL’s parking lot led light and led linear high bay discs can be fitted with PIR sensors. Unlike the built-in sensors in wall pack lights, these sensors are external and can be installed separately. The sensor for the led linear high bay disc simply plugs into the appropriate socket, while parking lot led lights require attention to wiring during installation. Our products generally come with the option of adding a sensor; however, if you prefer not to use a sensor, lights can also be controlled via a switch, which requires manual operation but offers more autonomy.

Key differences between the two sensors:

• Lighting Control: Dusk to Dawn Photocell operates based on environmental light levels (always on at night), while PIR sensors activate only when motion is detected.
• Energy Usage: PIR sensors can save more energy in low-traffic areas since the lights are only activated by motion, whereas Dusk to Dawn Photocells are on throughout the night.
• Best Uses: Dusk to Dawn Photocells are ideal for areas requiring continuous outdoor lighting all night (e.g., parking lots lighting, streetlights); PIR Sensors are best for spaces where intermittent lighting is sufficient, especially for security and motion detection (e.g., doorways, driveways, and backyards).