Photocells are sensors that detect the presence of light. They are commonly used to switch external lighting on and off automatically. A contactor is an electrical switch that is designed to handle a high level of voltage and current. In this article, we will discuss how to wire a photocell to a contactor. We will provide a step-by-step guide and include a wiring diagram. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about photocell wiring diagram with contactor.
Step 1: Prepare the Material
Before we start wiring the photocell to a contactor, we need to prepare the required material. The following is a list of material that we need:
| Material | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Photocell | 1 |
| Contactors | 1 |
| Electrical Wires | As required |
| Screwdriver | 1 |
| Wire Strippers | 1 |
| Wire Nuts | As required |
Make sure you have all the required material before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Wiring the Photocell
The first step is to wire the photocell. For this, follow the below steps:
- Start by disconnecting the power supply to the contactor.
- Connect one wire of the photocell to the contactor’s “A1” terminal.
- Connect the other wire of the photocell to the contactor’s “A2” terminal.
- Connect a wire nut to the two wires of the photocell.
Once you have wired the photocell, you can proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Wiring the Contactor
The next step is to wire the contactor. For this, follow the below steps:
- Connect the incoming power supply to the contactor’s “L1” and “L2” terminals.
- Connect one wire from the light fixture to the contactor’s “T1” terminal.
- Connect the other wire from the light fixture to the contactor’s “T2” terminal.
- Connect a wire nut to the two wires from the light fixture.
Once you have wired the contactor, you can proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Testing the Photocell with Contactor
Now that you have wired the photocell and contactor, it’s time to test the system. For this, follow the below steps:
- Reconnect the power supply to the contactor.
- Expose the photocell to light, and observe if the light fixture is turned on. If the light fixture is turned on, the system is working correctly. If the light fixture is not turned on, check if the wires are connected correctly or if there is any loose connection.
- Cover the photocell and observe if the light fixture is turned off. If the light fixture is turned off, the system is working correctly. If the light fixture is not turned off, check if the wires are connected correctly or if there is any loose connection.
Once you have tested the system, you can use it as per your requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How does a photocell work?
A photocell works by detecting the presence or absence of light. It changes its resistance depending on the amount of light it receives. When it is exposed to light, it has low resistance, and when it is not exposed to light, it has high resistance.
Q. Can a photocell be used with any contactor?
Yes, a photocell can be used with any contactor that is compatible with the voltage and current requirement of the system.
Q. Can a photocell be used with LED lights?
Yes, a photocell can be used with LED lights. However, you need to make sure that the photocell is compatible with the LED lights.
Q. What is the maximum distance between the photocell and contactor?
The maximum distance between the photocell and contactor depends on the voltage and current requirement of the system. However, it is recommended to keep the distance as short as possible to avoid any voltage drop.
Q. Can a photocell be used with a timer?
Yes, a photocell can be used with a timer to control the light fixture. You can set the timer to turn on the light fixture at a specific time, and the photocell will turn it off when it detects light.
Conclusion
Wiring a photocell to a contactor is a straightforward process. You need to prepare the required material and follow the step-by-step guide mentioned in this article. We have also answered some frequently asked questions related to photocell wiring diagram with contactor. If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to ask in the comment section below.
