Photocell and plug-in transformer

samm1978 · 10 Oct 2014

I have some 12v garden lights connected to a plug-in outdoor transformer. I was just wondering if I could turn this into a dusk to dawn set-up by adding a photocell between the transformer and the plug?

Also, the photocell has no earth terminal. Can I just connect the earth in a small terminal block within the photocell housing? Photocell itself is IP44.

I've added a diagram in case I've not explained myself very well.

Untitled

samm1978
10 Oct 2014
1

Thanks for your help guys.

pjcomp · 10 Oct 2014

Unless you can find a 12V photocell you'll need to put the photocell BEFORE the transformer as it requires a 240V feed (at least the one I've got int the van does). Otherwise there's no reason it shouldn't work - it's just a case of wiring, switches and electricity-using objects in a line.

pj

EFLImpudence · 10 Oct 2014

He has put it before the transformer.

pjcomp · 10 Oct 2014

Oops, Friday night inattention ....

333rocky333 · 10 Oct 2014

samm1978 said:
Also, the photocell has no earth terminal. Can I just connect the earth in a small terminal block within the photocell housing? Photocell itself is IP44.

Yes, it needs to join, to continue the earth through, even if its unused at the destination
Its rare to find an earth connectio on photocells

arkie · 11 Oct 2014

I use a timer plug so the bulbs aren't burning all night, just have to adjust it once a week as it gets darker and lighter.

Got me thinking and found a Photocell/Timer

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Photocell-Switch-Daylight-Sensor-Lightswitch/dp/B00D7MD3M0

samm1978 · 14 Oct 2014

arkie said:
I use a timer plug so the bulbs aren't burning all night, just have to adjust it once a week as it gets darker and lighter.

Got me thinking and found a Photocell/Timer

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Photocell-Switch-Daylight-Sensor-Lightswitch/dp/B00D7MD3M0[/QUOTE]

I wired mine up as per the diagram above, with the photocell between the plug and the transformer and continued the earth through using a crimp that I left in the housing. Works fine

I used this one - although its not a timer and just responds to the light level: http://www.toolstation.com/shop/p62528

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Photocell and plug-in transformer

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