Understanding Photocontrols and How to Test them Efficiently

Photocontrols are small, light-sensitive devices that automatically switch lights ON at dusk and OFF at dawn. This automation ensures energy efficiency, safety, and convenience by aligning lighting schedules with natural daylight.

In modern infrastructure, photocontrols are not only used for lighting but also serve as power access points when power-taps are added between the photocontrol and the luminaire. These power-taps enable auxiliary equipment - such as Wi-Fi access points, IoT sensors, cameras, or small-cell radios - to draw power directly from the lighting pole.

Access point powering from a power tap

However, because photocontrols determine when the pole is energized, ensuring that they function correctly is critical. A malfunctioning or mis wired photocontrol can cause lighting failures or interrupt power to connected devices. This is where a Photocontrol Test Cap becomes essential.

Ripley Photocontrol Test cap

Testing a photocontrol’s response to light and darkness normally requires waiting for nightfall or covering the sensor manually - both inefficient methods for field technicians.

Here is a step by step guide on how to use it:

1. Identify the photocontrol mounted on top of the luminaire or in a box along the pole. In a power-tap configuration, this will usually be just above the tap adapter.
   
2. Ensure the photocontrol and receptacle are securely seated and there are no visible signs of damage, corrosion, or loose wiring.
   
3. Gently fit the Ripley Test Cap over the photocontrol’s light-sensing window. The cap is designed to completely block both direct and reflected light, simulating darkness.
   
4. Within a few seconds, the photocontrol should sense “nighttime” and close the relay, turning the luminaire ON (or energizing the load circuit). If using a power-tap, verify that the auxiliary device (camera, AP, sensor, etc.) also receives power as expected.
   
5. Once testing is complete, remove the cap. The photocontrol will now sense daylight again and turn the light OFF after a brief delay.
   

For a reliable, field-tested option, consider the Ripley Photocontrol Test Cap - For Efficient Testing.

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Contact our Power Solutions Specialists for assistance with custom power solutions or learn more here.

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