Line Voltage Wall Switch Occupancy Sensors
and Neutral Conductors
Application
Note
Overview
North America Headquarters
203 Cooper Circle
Peachtree City, GA 30269
P: 800-553-3879
F: 800-954-7016
Service & Support Center
6 Green Tree Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
P: 800-553-3879
F: 800-954-7016
International Headquarters
20 Greenhill Crescent
Watford Business Park
Watford, Herts, WD18 8XG. UK
P: +44 (0)1923 495495
F: +44 (0)1923 228796
Line voltage wall switch occupancy sensors are electronic devices. As such, they require a power
source. In a typical line voltage powered device, such as an Ultrasonic or Dual Technology Sensor, the
power source is derived from the potential voltage and current available between line (hot) and neutral
conductors. In some wall switch applications a neutral conductor is not always available.
Technical Details
A typical line voltage wall switch occupancy sensor contains electronic circuitry. Sensing circuitry is
required to perform passive infrared (PIR) or ultrasonic sensing functions to detect motion. In dual
technology sensors both sets of circuitry are present. Sensors also contain microprocessor based
control circuitry to govern operation of the sensor as well as relays and their associated coil driver
circuitry to switch loads on and off. All of these electronic circuits require a power source to function.
In a line voltage application the power for this system can be derived from line and neutral. The power
required for the sensor electronics is negligible relative to the power consumed by the load. Use of a
neutral conductor provides the most flexibility in terms of sensor system design and functionality as this
approach yields ample power for the sensor. A neutral conductor is not always available, especially in
retrofit applications. For these applications wall switch sensors are available that are able to function
without the use of a neutral conductor. These sensors derive their power source from the potential
between line and earth ground.
Wiring Examples
ONW-D-1001-DMV-N-*, 120 to 277 VAC dual level single circuit with neutral
120 to 277 VAC
BLACK
BLUE
RED
RED
GREEN
WHITE
LOAD 2
LOAD 1
GROUND
NEUTRAL
ONW-D-1001-DMV-*, 120 to 277 VAC dual level single circuit no neutral
120/277 VAC
BLACK
BLUE
RED
RED
GREEN
LOAD 2
LOAD 1
GROUND
NEUTRAL
Conclusion
Page 1 of 1
ACC091454
For new construction or locations with a neutral, the standard, neutral versions should be selected. In
instances where existing sites do not provide access to neutral conductors, select sensors that do not
require a neutral.