Programing Motion detector/keypad

[tommet]

I have an outside light that is controlled by a motion detector. the light is programmed to operate between sunset and sunrise in response to motion. It turns on when the motion detector is on and then if there is no further movement it times after 30 seconds the light turns off.

However there are random times when I would like the lights to stay on continuously regardless of the state of the motion detector. I was wondering if there is a way to program a button on my keypad that could be set to toggle on/off and override the motion detector state. this way if the button is on the lights stay on continuously and if the button is off the motion detector would control.

[Mark H]

That depends on the porch light. Does it have any "outputs" or contacts for motion? (Likely not, unless it's a very high end unit.)

 

If this is one of the typical Zenith brand porch lights, which you can "override" with a switch for it indoors, you could replace that internal switch with a SwitchLinc 2477 (On/Off, no Dim).

 

I have one setup that way, though my porch light goes from Bright to Dim one minute after motion ends rather than Bright to Off after 30 seconds (I do have that option though).

 

To force it back to Bright or turn it On, and if it's between Sunset and Sunrise, you turn the switch off for one second and then back on. Repeat the sequence to toggle it back off (or Dim, in my case).

 

One way to do it, anyway.

[m6bigdog]

Most standard motion sensor controlled outdoor fixtures have a feature to override the motion sensor until Dawn by turning the fixture power switch off and on several times with in a specific period, i.e., 3 times in 5 seconds. You will want to check the instruction for your motion sensor override feature.

Once you have the override specification you could replace the fixture switch with a Insteon 2477S or 2466D ON/OFF Switch module and write a program to control that module from a separate KeyPad, remote control, in a scene or you could just do it manually from the fixture switch.

 

Also check my post:

"Quest for a better Outdoor Motion Sensor"

http://forum.universal-devices.com/viewtopic.php?f=26&t=13674

I'm using a RAB Mini (run of the mill) motion sensor and it is used as a "Momentary" trigger for the Micro Dimmer Module (2442-222) and the programming controls the variable ON times, variable brightness levels and alternate scene control.

 

With this setup I will have a outdoor fixture with;

Dusk/Dawn Motion Sensor control along with variable ON times and brightness levels, ramping and include the fixture in other outdoor scenes.

 

The simplest option is to use the Micro Dimmer in "Latch" mode where the motion sensor controls the ON time with a set brightness level and the programming only controls the fixture in alternate scenes.

.

Currently, I have a communication problem (all metal boxes in my home) that is causing the fixture not to perform as programmed so I am getting more Access Points to bridge the metal Box house wiring issue.

 

Also, look at the discontinued Heath/Zenith Motion Sensor Flood light kit (2494MSWH) with a discontinued Insteon In-Line On/Off Switch with Sense (2475S2) module.

http://www.smarthome.com/2494MSWH/In-LineLinc-Relay-INSTEON-Motion-Sensor-Floodlight-Kit-White/p.aspx