Is 500 Watts Typical for Toilet Motion Sensors? Experts Answer Ramone

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the specifications of a PIR motion sensor used in toilets, particularly focusing on the claimed 500 watts load switching capability. Participants explore the actual power consumption of the sensor itself versus the power it can control, as well as the implications of standby power usage.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Ramone questions whether a motion sensor can consume 500 watts, expressing disbelief at the specification.
  • One participant clarifies that the sensor itself consumes only a few watts, while it can switch lights that consume up to 500 watts, suggesting this is typical for such devices.
  • Another participant notes the absence of standby power usage in the specifications, indicating this could be a relevant detail for consumers.
  • Ramone inquires about the typical standby power consumption, speculating it might be around 1% of total usage.
  • A later reply provides a link to a motion sensor module, stating it operates at 5 volts DC and draws less than 100 μA, implying that the actual power consumption of the sensor is minimal.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the sensor itself does not consume 500 watts, but there is uncertainty regarding the standby power consumption and its implications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of standby power usage.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights a lack of clarity in the specifications regarding standby power usage, which may affect the overall understanding of the sensor's efficiency. There are also assumptions about the power consumption of the lights controlled by the sensor.

ramonegumpert
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Dear Experts

I come across a website showing specifications of a PIR motion sensor for toilets.

I quote the specs :

Type 180° Motion Sensor
Application Toilet, WC, Bathrooms, Restroom, Cloakroom
Technology Wall mount Passive Infrared PIR motion sensor
Reach 10 meters
Time Setting 5 Sec - 15 Minutes
Lux setting facility 2-2000 Lux
Load switching 500 Watts Inductive - 230V AC



I cannot believe it!

A motion sensor consumes 500watts ?

Is this typical for say a normal office toilet?

For instance, a PIR motion sensor used to save toilet lighting throughout the day.

So, I just like to know how much electricity typically such a sensor consumes and is the above specs typical?

Thanks very much .

Have a nice day.

Best regards
Ramone
 
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No, the sensor itself only consumes less than a few watts, but it can switch lights which consume up to 500 watts.

I have a motion sensor that switches a pair of 150 watt lamps when it detects motion and provided it is not in daylight.
The lamps go out after 30 seconds or so.

So, yes, yours is probably pretty typical.
 
I'm surprised that the specs don't indicate standby power usage. That could be a selling point where other specs are typical.
 
NascentOxygen said:
I'm surprised that the specs don't indicate standby power usage. That could be a selling point where other specs are typical.

Maybe they themselves do not know either.
 
Hi Everyone,

Thanks for your comments.

Does anyone know how much standby power is consumed ? For example, 1% out of total usage?

Thanks.
regards
Ramone
 
Here is a motion sensor module:

http://www.parallax.com/dl/docs/prod/audiovis/pirsensor-v1.2.pdf

As you can see, it runs off 5 volts DC and draws less than 100 μA.

If one of these was used in a mains powered device, there would be losses in developing 5 volts DC but the motion sensor itself would not draw much power.

This power would be constant, though. 24 hours a day.