Light Sensor Operation Of Blinds: Part 2

In part 1 we discussed how the MCS-1-RF wireless window mounted light sensor can be used to activate our radio equipped blind and shade motors using RF (Radio Frequency). In part 2, we will become familiar with the layout of the controls and features of the unit.

At this point the light sensor cover should be removed, the battery inserted into the battery compartment, and the light sensor unit powered up, as shown in the picture on the right.

Also, please note that the 'confirm' switch behaves the same way as the switch of the same name on our regular remote controls (re channel assignment). You will, however, need a regular remote control to set travel limits on the blind motor.

Light sensors for blinds and shade motors can be purchased in our online store, click here to view in a new window

An important point that makes this system unique: the motor operation can be reversed. This means that if you are attempting to block bright sunlight, you can close the blinds when the light gets bright, and open them if it becomes cloudy. If you are using it to close the blinds at dusk and open them at dawn, just reverse the motor operation. You can also use this sensor with a timer to facilitate light sensitive operation for blind & shade control AND timed operation.

The following is a brief description of the switches, lights and adjustments used to program the unit for unattended operation, starting at the top with the LED light and moving clockwise around the circuit board. Please refer to part 4 for a detailed description of each item:

1. Multi-color LED:

This red/green LED is used to indicate various states during the setup phase, and motor activity during normal operation.

2. Confirm Switch:

The confirm switch is used to pair the motor with the sensor unit. When pressed, it causes the unit to issue a 'handshake' signal while the motor is put into a special 'listening' mode (see part 3). The motor decodes the handshake signal and stores it in its onboard memory system. Once the code is stored, the motor will recognize any subsequent commands coming from the sensor unit when the daylight thresholds are reached.

3. Up/Down/Stop Test Switch:

This switch is used to configure and test various settings during the setup phase. During normal operation it can be toggled to issue up, down and stop commands. The sequence is Roller UP (red LED), Roller STOP (red + green LED), Roller DOWN (green LED), Roller STOP (red + green LED).

4. DIP Mode Switch:

This multi-pole DIP (Dual Inline Package) switch is actually 4 switches in 1. It is used for setting the modes of operation, and there are several different ways this light sensor can be deployed:

• Weak Light Level Operation: The blind is activated only when it gets dark. This is useful if you want to manually open the blinds with a hand held remote in the morning (or open the blind with a timer).
• Strong Light Level Operation: The blind is activated only when it gets bright. This is useful if you want to manually close the blinds with a hand held remote in the evening (or close the blind with a timer).
• Cracked Glass Operation: This light sensor has the ability to detect sudden rapid changes in light level, such as when forced entry is attempted by smashing a window. This can be useful in storefront situations where metal roller security blinds are used in display windows; it is not normally used in domestic applications.

Multi-mode: You can also use any combination of the above 3 modes, including weak and strong light level operation, so that the blinds will close at night and open in the morning as soon as daylight appears.

Light sensors for blinds and shade motors can be purchased in our online store, click here to view in a new window

PART 1: Sunlight sensor for blinds - Removing the Cover

PART 2: Sunlight sensor for blinds - Controls and Layout

PART 3: Sunlight sensor for blinds - Linking to a Radio Motor

PART 4: Sunlight sensor for blinds - Adjusting Light Sensing Modes

We sincerely hope you enjoy using these advanced motors; if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at any time!