Manual light sensor connection for Street Light
Learn manual light sensor wiring to automatically control street lights, saving energy by turning lights ON at dusk and OFF at dawn.

energy-saving street light circuit
Street lights can be wired to use manual light sensors so that they turn on and off accordingly to the ambient light. A photocell switch switches lights ON at dusk and OFF at sunrise, and has an optional manual override to ensure safety and control.
night light sensor installation
Street light wiring with manual light sensor wiring enables the automatic lighting to work depending on the ambient light. Distribution of the street light AC supply is made through a main MCB and then to a light sensor or photocell switch. The sensor measures the amount of light and switches the street light on at dusk and off at dawn. There can be a parallel installation of a manual override switch to control the light as necessary. Good wiring provides safety, eliminates back-feed, and does not waste energy. To operate safely, the neutral and earth should be properly connected. To check that the lights work properly, testing is performed under night conditions or with the sensor covered with something to simulate night conditions. This system is common in homes, streets, and parks to conserve energy and offer automatic street lighting.
Work & Installation (Input → Output Summary)
- AC supply passes through a main MCBfor overload protection.
- Connect supply tophotocell/light sensor switch controlling street light.
- Street light load connects to output of the sensor.
- Neutral and earth connections are properly maintained.
- Optionalmanual override switch allows turning lights ON/OFF manually.
- Lights automatically turn ON at low light and OFF at high light, saving energy.
Testing & Final Adjustments
- Verify wiring of AC supply, MCB, light sensor, and street light load.
- Test automatic operation by simulating night and day (cover/uncover sensor).
- Check optional manual switch override functionality.
- Inspect neutral and earth connections for safety.
- Verify street light turns ON at low ambient light and OFF at high light.
- Ensure no voltage drop occurs at the lamp terminals.
- Test multiple cycles to confirm sensor reliability.
- Ensure MCB trips under fault conditions.
- Check mounting of sensor to avoid shading or obstruction.
- Document wiring and settings for future maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions - Manual light sensor connection for Street Light:
What is a light sensor for street lights?
A device that automatically turns street lights ON at dusk and OFF at dawn.
Why use a manual light sensor?
It allows automatic control with optional manual override for safety.
Where is it installed?
Between the AC supply and the street light load.
Is MCB necessary?
Yes, for overload and short-circuit protection.
Can multiple lights be controlled?
Yes, one sensor can control several lights within its capacity.
How to test the sensor?
Cover the sensor to simulate night and uncover to simulate day; lights should respond.
Is earthing required?
Yes, for safety and proper operation of the light.
Can it save energy?
Yes, by turning lights OFF during daylight automatically.
Can I add a manual override switch?
Yes, it allows turning lights ON/OFF regardless of ambient light.
Is it suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, sensors are weatherproof for street light applications.
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