The wireless ceiling mount occupancy sensor is a compact and reliable battery-powered control solution that simplifies lighting management in a wide range of indoor environments. Preferred by contractors for its ease of installation and flexible mounting options, this sensor eliminates the need for complex wiring and drastically reduces setup time. Each unit can be wirelessly linked to one or more load controllers—such as a wall switch controller or a power pack—within seconds, ensuring quick configuration for new or retrofit applications. In addition to standalone operation, the sensor can function as part of a network of wireless or wired devices, allowing coordinated coverage across large or irregularly shaped spaces such as open offices, hallways, or classrooms.
Utilizing the latest passive infrared (PIR) detection technology, the sensor offers exceptional motion detection accuracy for reliable occupancy-based lighting control. Select models also integrate dual technology detection, combining PIR motion sensing with passive acoustic monitoring through a built-in microphone to improve detection in spaces where motion may be limited or obstructed. For enhanced daylight control, models equipped with an integrated photocell enable daylight harvesting or on/off light regulation based on ambient light levels, making them ideal for offices, classrooms, or other energy-conscious environments.
When an occupant enters the sensor’s field of view, it detects movement in infrared energy and signals the paired load controller to activate or brighten connected lighting. Dual-technology models engage the acoustic detection feature once the lights are on, maintaining occupancy even during moments of stillness. The sensor transmits occupancy status updates at regular intervals, allowing linked devices to keep lights on as needed and automatically return the space to a power-saving dimmed or off state when unoccupied.
For small spaces such as private offices, restrooms, or copy rooms, a single ceiling sensor linked to a wall switch controller offers complete lighting control, with additional sensors added if necessary. Both auto-on (occupancy) and manual-on (vacancy) modes are supported to meet energy code requirements. In larger areas like open offices, classrooms, conference rooms, and hallways, multiple wireless sensors can be linked to a single wireless power pack controller to ensure consistent coverage. The system also supports multi-location control for switching and dimming functions, with dual-technology models recommended in spaces where seated occupants or partitions may obstruct line of sight.
Units with an integrated photocell provide several operational modes. In daylight harvesting mode, lights gradually dim to maintain consistent brightness while maximizing energy savings, making this mode suitable for offices and classrooms. On/off photocell control is recommended for public spaces such as hallways or lobbies, switching lights completely off or on based on ambient light levels. The inhibit-only mode prevents lights from turning on when sufficient natural light is available but ensures they remain on once activated until vacancy or manual switch-off occurs.
Compact and discreet, the ceiling mount sensor measures 4.00 inches in diameter and 1.25 inches in height, with a matte finish available in white or black. It includes multiple contractor-friendly mounting methods, including a mounting nipple with an integrated hole saw. LED indicators assist with wireless linking, motion detection testing, and coverage verification. The sensor operates within a temperature range of 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C) and up to 95% non-condensing humidity, making it suitable for indoor applications.
The unit operates on a CR123(A) lithium battery, with battery life depending on the model: up to 10 years for PIR-only, 7 years for PIR models with photocells, and 5 years for dual-technology versions. All models include non-volatile memory to preserve settings during power or battery changes, and a blinking light alert warns when battery life drops below 10%. Wireless communication operates on the 915 MHz ISM band, with a range of up to 80 feet line of sight (40 feet through walls or floors). Data transmission is encrypted for secure communication, and wireless linking requires only a three-second button press.
The sensor’s operating modes are configured through its linked load controller and include motion-based occupancy or vacancy control, as well as photocell-based daylight harvesting or on/off functions. Multiple time delay options—ranging from 1 to 30 minutes—are available to fine-tune performance based on space usage. The system meets major energy standards, including ASHRAE 90.1, IECC, and Title 24 requirements.
The PIR detection system performs best when occupants move across its sensing beams, with effective coverage up to approximately 500 square feet at 8 to 12 feet mounting height. Dual-technology models expand this functionality by adding acoustic coverage overlapping the PIR zone. A PIR event activates the acoustic sensor, allowing occupant sounds to reset time delays and maintain lighting when minimal motion is present. The system filters non-occupant noises and disables acoustic detection shortly after timeout to prevent unnecessary activation, with a brief 15-second reactivation window for added convenience and safety.
Each sensor’s heartbeat transmission periodically updates its occupancy status to linked controllers, ensuring synchronized operation across all connected devices. Load controllers turn lights off only when all linked sensors report unoccupied for the full time delay period. For safety, if no signal is received for ten minutes, the controller defaults to an occupied state to prevent lights from remaining off erroneously.
For photocell-equipped models, the sensor must perform an auto-setpoint calibration to begin daylight operation. The photocell measures light levels approximately every 15 seconds and communicates this data to the linked controller, which then adjusts lighting intensity accordingly. The system compensates for lighting contributions from its own fixtures, preventing unnecessary cycling. Only one photocell sensor actively communicates with a given controller at a time, ensuring reliable operation in multi-sensor setups.
Overall, this wireless ceiling mount occupancy sensor delivers a refined, flexible, and efficient lighting control solution ideal for commercial and institutional spaces. With its combination of PIR, optional acoustic, and daylight sensing technologies, it ensures responsive performance, extended coverage, secure wireless communication, and long-lasting battery operation—all within a compact and installer-friendly design.
https://www.sensorworx.com/wireless-ceiling-sensors/
