Ceiling-Mount Occupancy Sensors deliver a comprehensive range of intelligent control solutions for spaces with finished ceilings, including those constructed with tiles, sheetrock, or plaster. Designed for versatility and ease of installation, these sensors are highly favored by contractors for their efficient mounting methods that reduce setup time and minimize complexity. Utilizing advanced passive infrared (PIR) technology and digital signal processing, they provide exceptional detection accuracy and reliability. For spaces where visual detection might be limited due to obstructions or minimal occupant movement, models are available with an integrated microphone that adds passive acoustic detection. Enhanced configurations also include a built-in photocell for light override functionality, active daylight harvesting capabilities for 0–10V dimmable lighting systems, and an isolated relay for seamless integration with external control systems such as HVAC or building automation systems.
Each unit operates by detecting changes in infrared energy emitted by occupants as they move within the sensor’s field of view. When occupancy is detected, the sensor signals a connected relay or power pack to activate the lighting. For models featuring dual-technology operation, the PIR system works in tandem with acoustic detection, ensuring that even subtle sounds extend the occupancy signal. An internal timer keeps lights on during brief inactivity, automatically resetting whenever new motion or sound is detected. This dual approach ensures reliable performance and minimizes false offs, enhancing both energy savings and user convenience.
The ceiling-mount occupancy sensors are ideal for a wide variety of indoor environments. A single unit provides coverage for smaller rooms such as private offices or restrooms, while multiple sensors can be interconnected to manage larger areas like open offices, classrooms, or conference rooms. Typical applications include open areas, classrooms, hallways, break rooms, copy rooms, and other workspaces requiring responsive lighting control.
Featuring digital passive infrared detection with a 360° coverage pattern, these sensors deliver comprehensive area monitoring. Their compact, matte-finish design blends seamlessly with ceiling surfaces, while contractor-friendly installation methods—including mounting nipple attachments with integrated hole saws—simplify setup. Additional features include optional passive acoustic detection, adjustable time delays, convenient test modes, and optional enhancements such as photocells, daylight harvesting control, and isolated relay outputs.
Physically, each sensor measures 4.00 inches in diameter and 1.25 inches in height, weighing only 4.75 ounces. Units are available in either white or black finishes to suit aesthetic preferences. They are designed for indoor environments, operating within a temperature range of 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C) and up to 95% relative humidity (non-condensing). The sensors are fully RoHS compliant, ensuring environmentally responsible construction.
Electrically, the sensors operate on 12–24 VAC/VDC and feature low current draw—5mA for PIR-only models, 10mA for dual-technology versions, and 12mA for models incorporating both dual technology and photocell options. They provide a logic high VDC output in occupied mode and are compatible with recommended low-voltage power packs. For dimmable configurations, the -D option supports 0–10V lighting systems with a dimming capacity of up to 50mA, compliant with IEC 60929 Annex E.2. The isolated relay output is rated at 1A at 30 VDC/VAC, allowing reliable interfacing with other building systems.
Time delays are fully adjustable from 0 seconds to 30 minutes, with a factory default of 10 minutes. A convenient test mode with a 5-second delay facilitates quick setup and calibration during installation. These sensors meet major energy code standards, including ASHRAE 90.1, IECC, and Title 24, supporting compliance with modern building efficiency requirements.
In terms of detection capability, PIR models are best installed at mounting heights between 8 and 15 feet. Detection performance is strongest when occupants move across detection beams rather than directly toward the sensor. For specific applications, different lens types can be field-swapped to tailor the detection pattern. Dual-technology units extend functionality through overlapping acoustic coverage across the full PIR zone, ensuring consistent performance in spaces with intermittent movement. Acoustic detection activates upon PIR detection, filtering out non-occupant sounds while responding to occupant noises that signal ongoing presence. For added convenience, the acoustic mode remains active for 10 seconds after the occupancy timeout, allowing voice-based reactivation of lights.
Multiple detection pattern options are available to match room size and occupant activity. The Small Motion 360° lens offers optimal sensitivity for detecting subtle movements such as hand or arm motions in smaller spaces, covering approximately 500 square feet. The Large Motion 360° configuration is ideal for detecting broader movements such as walking, covering up to 2,000 square feet. For environments with high ceilings, the High Bay 360° model provides reliable detection above 15 feet, suitable for gyms, warehouses, or industrial facilities. However, this version is not recommended for seated areas and does not include acoustic technology.
Daylight harvesting and photocell options further enhance energy efficiency by automatically adjusting lighting based on ambient light levels. In daylight harvesting mode, lighting intensity gradually adjusts to maintain a consistent illumination level, optimizing energy use without distracting occupants—ideal for offices and classrooms. On/off photocell control automatically turns lights off when daylight exceeds a set threshold and restores them when levels drop, making it suitable for public or transitional spaces. Alternatively, inhibit-only photocell operation prevents lights from turning on if adequate daylight is already present, turning them on only when light levels fall below the threshold. Once on, lights remain active until a vacancy is detected or switched off manually.
Advanced configurations allow combined occupancy and daylight harvesting control, ensuring that lights automatically dim to low levels or turn off completely as natural light increases. Flexible wiring options also permit separate control zones—such as occupancy-only areas and occupancy-plus-photocell zones—providing designers with the versatility to tailor lighting control strategies to the specific needs of each space.
Altogether, these ceiling-mount occupancy sensors combine advanced sensing technologies, versatile installation features, and robust environmental adaptability to deliver reliable, energy-efficient lighting control in a wide range of commercial and institutional settings.
https://www.sensorworx.com/products/ceiling-mount-sensors/low-voltage-ceiling-sensors/
