5A IP65 Photocell Switch - Dusk to Dawn Sensor

The Knightsbridge OSPCR is a direct wire-in photocell sensor that automatically switches connected lighting on at dusk and off at dawn. The thermal photodiode detects ambient light levels, switching on between 10-20 lux (dusk) and off between 30-60 lux (dawn) with a 20-120 second time delay to prevent false triggering from passing headlights or brief cloud cover.

Designed for integration into outdoor light fittings, wall-mounted enclosures and bollard lights, the sensor is supplied with a 300mm pre-wired cable (live, neutral, switched live) terminated and ready for connection. The 17mm cut-out diameter allows it to be mounted through a drilled hole in the fitting housing or an appropriate weatherproof enclosure, with the sensor head projecting 21mm beyond the mounting surface to ensure clear detection of ambient light. Once installed, the unit achieves IP65 rating against dust and water jets.

The sensor handles loads up to 500W incandescent, 850VA inductive or 300W LED on a 230V AC 50Hz supply. The polycarbonate housing withstands ambient temperatures from -40°C to 70°C and relative humidity up to 99% RH, making it suitable for UK outdoor installation year-round. Two locknut rings and two rubber O-ring seals are included in the box to secure the sensor and maintain the IP65 seal once fitted.

Product Specification Sheet

What load can the photocell switch?

The sensor handles up to 500W incandescent, 850VA inductive or 300W LED load on 230V AC 50Hz mains. For higher loads, use the sensor to trigger a contactor or relay rated for the required current.

How is it wired?

The sensor is pre-wired with a 300mm cable containing three cores: live (brown), neutral (blue) and switched live (grey or black). Connect mains live and neutral to the sensor's brown and blue leads, then run the switched live output to the lighting circuit you want to control. The sensor must be installed by a qualified electrician in compliance with BS 7671.

At what light level does it switch?

The photocell switches on when ambient light drops to between 10-20 lux (roughly equivalent to dusk) and switches off when light rises to between 30-60 lux (dawn). The hysteresis gap prevents the sensor from cycling on and off repeatedly at the threshold. A 20-120 second time delay further prevents false triggering from car headlights or brief shadows.

What's included in the box?

The photocell sensor unit with 300mm cable, two threaded locknut rings, and two rubber O-ring seals for mounting and weatherproofing once installed through a 17mm drilled hole.