“A photocell operates on semiconductor photoconductivity: the energy of photons hitting the semiconductor frees electrons to flow, decreasing the resistance.” ![]() As an electrician, my component-level understanding is limited so I turned to good old. We use photocells in lighting control because the photocell is able to measure the ambient light levels so when it gets dark, the photocell triggers the lights to switch on automatically. I’m guessing if you’ve landed on this post you know what a photocell is, but for those who don’t, a quick recap. The simplicity that makes them great, can also be their biggest drawback, but there are some workarounds available. ![]() So, should you control outside lights with a photocell? This post will give a few of the situations I would install a photocell, highlight some of the drawbacks I have come across and also provide a few alternative options.Ĭontrolling outside lights with a photocell is a great option if you want a simple robust solution to automated lighting control. The technology has been around for ages (invented all the way back in 1883) which gives them the robustness needed to work outdoors over long periods.Īlthough technology has moved on, with the wide use of smart lighting, I am still a huge fan of using the humble photocell and I don’t think it is an option that should be overlooked. ![]() Photocells are the traditional workhorse of lighting control.
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