Photocell The Eye-Opener 2100™ (Universal) Capability

So - you've put tons of work into designing and installing your landscape lighting. And it looks like magic! The neighbors will definitely be impressed.

But what about long-term use? How will you keep your landscape lighting looking great without having to manually turn it on and off every night? That's where photocell sensors come in.

Photocell sensors are light-sensitive devices that can detect changes in light levels and trigger a switch when those levels reach a predetermined point. In other words, they can be used to turn your landscape lighting on or off automatically at dusk - no need for manual activation required.

Your search for the perfect photocell ends here. The Eye-Opener 2100™ photocell is a super-functional light detection sensor and can meet a variety of needs and a range of situations. It is widely used in Outdoor Landscape  Lighting Transformers. 

Features and Benefits:

• Intelligent: A versatile and functional light detection sensor with industry-leading light-sensing technology and power cycling. The photocell intelligently manages the power input and turns it on or off depending on the time of the day and the ambient light.
• Universal: Perfectly compatible with TopNotch LEDs and most transformers on the market. The Eye-Opener 2100 works right out of the box with compatible equipment and light fixtures.
• Compatible: 100% compatible with our range of low-voltage transformers, path lights, spotlights, and MR16 and T3 LED bulbs.
• Plugs In: Easily connects with compatible equipment. It’s also easy to install without the help of certified technicians. Hassle-free installation ensures that it is perfect for everywhere homeowners with just minimal know-how of lighting.
• Set It & Forget It: A highly effective add-on for any device that requires power management from detection of light. No need to worry about any device or equipment left on by mistake, and no more headaches power bills running accidentally high.

The Eye-Opener 2100™ photocell sensor boasts smart power cycling that intelligently decides how much electricity to generate based on ambient lighting. It detects light and automatically turns on during low light and shuts off when it’s bright outside. The sensor allows you to reduce energy consumption while also doing its job silently without human interaction.

They come with a quick-connect feature to enable an easy and hassle-free installation process. Apart from TopNotch products, these photocells are universally compatible with most transformers. This makes it a highly versatile add-on to a variety of electronic devices that require power management based on the detection of light.

Where are Photocell Lighting Sensors Used?

Photocell lighting sensors can be realistically used in any context requiring seamless light control. The most obvious instance would be landscaping, as many large residential and commercial property owners don't want to have to deal with the hassle of manually switching their lights on and off every time outdoor conditions change.

Even within this single use case, there are countless ways to incorporate light-sensing technology in an outdoor lighting system. Let's take a look at the most popular:

Landscape Lighting

The most common use for photocell lighting sensors in landscaping is to control outside lights. As darkness falls, the photocell sensor can detect this and trigger a switch that turns on outdoor lights, eliminating the need for manual operation.

Additionally, photocell lighting sensors can be used to control the brightness of outdoor lights. By using daylight level sensing technology, external lights can adjust their brightness according to how much natural light is available in an area. This ensures that external lighting is never too bright or too dim during different times of day, providing a consistent level of illumination.

Area Lighting

Area lighting is a great way to make sure that pathways, garages, and other outdoor areas remain well-lit during the evening hours. Photocell sensors can be used to turn lights on at sundown and off again at sunrise, or they can be programmed to respond only when motion is detected. This is perfect in terms of both convenience and safety. Automatic systems like these are essentially self-maintaining and require little to no human interaction. They provide the visibility people need, when they need it, without the added work that comes with maintaining traditional area lighting systems.

Security Lighting

Security lighting is an incredibly common component of any outdoor security system, and adding photocell sensors to these fixtures can also be quite beneficial. These sensors will detect reduced light levels and automatically activate the lights when motion is detected in their vicinity. This can provide an extra layer of safety against intruders, as well as reduce energy consumption since the lights only come on when they are needed.

Are Photocell Light Sensors Worth It?

As you should with every investment in life, you're likely wondering whether photocell light sensors are worth buying for your property. The answer depends on a simple question: do you enjoy convenience?

If you like to come home after dark and not worry about turning on the lights, a photocell light sensor is an excellent investment. The sensors detect when it's getting dark outside and turn your outside lights on for you automatically, saving you the hassle of having to manually turn them on each day.

Photocell light sensors are also great for security purposes, as their automatic activation can give the exterior of your home a lived-in look even when you're away from it.

Of course, it's important to recognize that photocell light sensors are only worth the cost if you're purchasing them from a reputable manufacturer. Not all light-detecting systems are made equal; it's best to do your research and read reviews before investing in one.

Special Considerations to Make Before Buying Photocell Light Sensors

Suppliers aren't the only thing you'll need to think about during the process - installation is another factor to consider. Many photocell light sensors are easy to install and require minimal wiring, but some more complex models may need a professional hand.

Several external factors such as ambient temperature and humidity levels, location of installation, and distance from any other sources of lighting also need to be taken into account. No matter which product you buy, it will ultimately only ever be effective if these conditions are in play. Again, doing research in this respect can help you make the best decision and configure a system that meets your specific needs.

Professional Grade - Non-Fluctuating Voltage Current, Clean Power, Energy-Efficient, Top Notch PremaX® Prevents Premature Lamp Burnout, a perfect choice for Professional Landscape Lighting systems

 Top Notch offers a universal open switching control architecture. Use any standard timer, photocell, manual switch or “smart home” device to control the transformer. The multi-tap feature allows the field installer to compensate for voltage loss from different cable run lengths, thereby balancing the system for high performance and maximum lamp life and performance.

Specifications: 

Features & Benefits:

• A complete and reliable lighting solution.
• 150W power generation capacity, which can further be utilized through multi-tap options in the 12v to 15v range. You can upscale or downscale the output according to the lighting requirements and the size of the area to be illuminated.
• Overload Protection and Auto Thermal Shut-Off ensures minimal hazards no matter how long or how hard it’s used. It protects against voltage fluctuations and temperature rises. Secondary side magnet circuit breakers work well as an additional fail-safe and an extra layer of safety.
• Encased in a stainless steel case with a removable and lockable door for easy access to circuit boards, along with a pre-punched 1.25' Conduit on the bottom panel.
• A quick-mount bracket that is bundled with the transformers makes sure that the installation procedure is a breeze.
• Compatible with all Top-Notch Light Fixtures, LED Lamps, and Photo-cells, as well as with other similar products on the market.

We have designed the The Shocker™ Outdoor LandscapeTransformer as a dependable solution to all your power generation requirements. It can generate a whopping 150W-900W of power in multi-tap options of 12v to 15v and comes encased in a premium-grade stainless steel case. The case itself comes with a removable, lockable door for easy access to the circuit boards.

• Stainless Steel Case
• Removable, Lockable Door 
• Overload Protection with Auto Thermal Shut-Off
• Secondary Side Magnetic Circuit Breakers
• Pre-Punched Bottom Panel 1.25' Conduit
• Plug-in Photocell Ready
• Quick Mount Bracket 

 The Shocker™ Landscape Transformer comes equipped with overload protection and automatically shuts off on increased thermal heat. A set of secondary side magnetic circuit breakers adds an extra layer of safety. A quick-mount bracket further enables an easy and effortless installation. These transformers are also ‘plug-in photocell ready’ for auto-on and auto-off depending on light conditions. Once installed, The Shocker™ Landscape Lighting Transformer will have your power generation requirements covered for a long time.

The Shocker 300™ Stainless Steel Multi-Tap Landscape Outdoor Transformer

A truly reliable Top Notch Low Voltage lighting solution requires a reliable power source. It must be powerful. It must be sturdy. A misbehaving transformer can not only ruin the lighting of your landscape but can also damage any attached electronic device.

Features & Benefits:

• Is able to work well with multiple transformers to be able to reduce the individual fixture wattage or to reduce the total number of fixtures that are used on a run
• Remember to calculate the total number of lighting fixtures that will be connected to the transformer before you plan on ordering for your optimal use; It is recommended to use 80 percent of your transformers to lengthen the life span of your transformers
• Will work to protect your equipment and comes with an overload protection that will automatically shut off when it senses an increase in heat within the system; also has a secondary set of breakers for backup
• Is designed to generate up to 300W of power for all your needs and has multi-tap options of 12v to 15v to provide power for all your needs
• Well designed and sturdy; has a strong stainless steel case with a lockable door for easy access to the circuits; comes with a warranty to guarantee the workmanship of the product

We have designed the The Shocker 300™ Transformer  as a dependable solution to all your power generation requirements. It can generate a whopping 300W of power in multi-tap options of 12v to 15v and comes encased in a premium-grade stainless steel case. The case itself comes with a removable, lockable door for easy access to the circuit boards.

 The Shocker 300™ Transformer comes equipped with overload protection and automatically shuts off on increased thermal heat. A set of secondary side magnetic circuit breakers adds an extra layer of safety. A quick-mount bracket further enables an easy and effortless installation. These transformers are also ‘plug-in photocell ready’ for auto-on and auto-off depending on light conditions.

 The Shocker 300™ Transformers are backed by a lifetime warranty.

Specifications: 

Top Notch Lighting Wire 12-2,14-2 Gauge Low-Voltage (low-energy) underground landscape lighting cable is designed for landscape, security, and outdoor accent lighting applications not to exceed 150-Volt. Landscape Lighting Cable is sunlight-resistant, suitable for direct burial, and for use at temperatures between -20˚C and 60˚C. Jacket is made of PVC.

Specifications:

• Brand: Top Notch Landscape Lighting
• Ideal for outdoor accent lighting, landscape lighting, and security lighting
• PVC jacket is sunlight resistant
• Approved for outdoor burial applications at temperatures between -20°C and 60°C
• 12 gauge with 2 copper conductors
• Rated up to 150-Volt
• Premium grade heat and moistue-resistant black PVC insulation/jacket
• 100 ft. coil
• View local codes for direct burial guidelines
• Note: product may vary by store
• UL Listed

Specifications:

Our modern, interconnected world is full of wires. From bedrooms with phone changing cables and televisions to desks that accommodate energy-demanding computers and printers. Even outdoors - modern landscape lighting systems can consist of many wires - and connections - that need to be protected against the elements. In this article, we'll explain what landscape wire connectors are, the varieties they come in, and how you can choose the best ones for your property.

What Is a Landscape Lighting Wire Connector?

Landscape lighting wire connectors are an essential component in outdoor landscape lighting systems, used to create a safe and secure electrical connection between the wiring of a light fixture or other device and its power source.

While indoor varieties do exist, landscape wire connectors serve a very important role in outdoor contexts. Mother Nature is anything but considerate to wires and cables, which means they must be appropriately insulated and protected to maintain a strong connection over time.

In most cases, landscape lighting wire connectors are designed to provide a water-tight seal between two wires for an effective connection. This helps protect outdoor lighting systems against the elements while also providing reliable power distribution without short circuits or other power issues — something that is especially important in damp areas with frequent rain or humidity.

A Look at the Main Types of Landscape Lighting Wire Connectors

You may be reading all of this and thinking - 'It's a small part used to connect two wires, how complicated can that be?' The answer is very. A lot more goes into a landscape lighting wire connector than what meets the eye. They vary greatly in terms of application, material, size, and shape, with each variety being suited to a specific type of connection.

Some of the most popular wire connectors include:

Twist-On Wire Connectors

Twist-on wire connectors work exactly as their name implies - they twist onto the ends of two or more wires to create a secure connection. These connectors are commonly used in electrical boxes and for wiring up fixtures such as lights, switches, and outlets. They come in various sizes ranging from small single-wire connectors to large multi-wire connectors.

Crimp-On Wire Connectors

Crimp-on wire connectors are similar to twist-on ones, but instead of twisting the wires together you use a crimping tool to secure them in place. This is somewhat more of a permanent option, as the crimp creates a tight seal that won’t come undone. These connectors are often used for heavier gauge wires like those used in landscape lighting systems.

Push-In Wire Connectors

Push-in wire connectors, also known as wire nuts, are connectors that can easily be pushed onto the ends of two or more wires.

These connectors come in a variety of sizes and shapes, with each size designed for a specific number of wires. They are often used in applications such as fan and light fixtures, switches, and outlets.

Advantages of Using Landscape Lighting Wire Connectors

Like every investment in life, buying landscape wire connectors would be pointless if there weren't some serious benefits to be reaped by doing so. Luckily, there are plenty to be noted. Read below for a preview of the value that these landscaping products can offer you.

Secure and Reliable Connection

The first and most obvious advantage of using landscape lighting wire connectors is the function they're designed to perform - ensuring a secure and reliable connection between the electrical components in your outdoor lighting system. This is especially important if you're working with any kind of low-voltage landscape lighting as even a tiny gap in the connection can cause an electrical short or other issue that could cost you time and money to fix.

Simple Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Another great advantage of using wire connectors is they make troubleshooting and maintenance a breeze. By having the wiring organized and in one place, it is easier to locate any issues that may crop up down the line.

Peace of Mind

While there's an upfront monetary cost to be paid, choosing to use wire connectors for your landscape lighting can return dividends in peace of mind. Imagine spending hours - or worse, multiple days - setting up a comprehensive hardscape design only for it to degrade or stop working within a couple of months. By investing in quality wire connectors, you can rest assured that your lighting will be securely connected and reliable for many years to come. Ensure that effort pays off long-term!

Easy Installation

Landscaping wire connectors are incredibly easy to install. You generally won't need any special tools or equipment to get the job done, and since it's a super straightforward process, it won't take very long either. Connecting the wires is as easy as stripping the insulation off of each end and inserting them into a connector cap, then twisting it shut. In most cases, it takes only minutes to insulate an entire landscape lighting project's cable connections from start to finish.

What to Prioritize In an Outdoor Landscape Lighting Wire Connector

It's important to note that the above-mentioned benefits of using landscape lighting wire connectors in your yard are contingent upon the specific product you buy. Manufacturers go about designing and producing units in different ways - some with much more attention to detail than others. This section will outline a few critical things to keep top of mind when shopping.

Material

Subject to wear, corrosion, and other damage, landscape lighting wire connectors need to be made with a quality material that offers exceptional durability and protection. Look for units with an outer shell designed to guard against moisture, dust, dirt, and other environmental elements.

Color

While it seems a bit superficial, color selection plays an important role in the aesthetic of your landscape lighting. More often than not, units come in varying shades (such as white, black, gray and brown), making it easy to find one that complements the palette of your yard or garden.

Filling/Insulation

Although not every option out there has it, the best landscape lighting connectors contain an internal layer of filling designed to insulate wires from shock and vibration. This insulation layer helps ensure the unit’s stability, even in the presence of changing temperatures or unstable ground conditions.

Safety

UL Listed products are the way to go with any kind of outdoor lighting purchase. This means the product has been independently tested and certified to meet certain safety standards. 

It doesn't matter how beautiful your landscape lighting setup is - if it's not protected from the elements, then you won't be able to enjoy it for long. Top Notch Co Landscape Lighting offers a variety of exceptional connectors that are designed to meet the highest safety standards, while still providing a great aesthetic for your outdoor space. Start browsing our selection today.

Start every project with Top Notch's Complete Lighting Kit and save big. This Top Notch Pack includes:

(6) TN-BUL1-BK-LED-3FL Up Lights with MR-16 LED Lamps,
(4) TN-PTH1-BK-LED Path Lights with G4 LED Lamps,
(1) TN-TR1-150SS Transformer,
(1) Timer, (10) 9 in. ABS Ground Stakes,
(20) Gel-filled Underground Connectors
(100) ft. of 12/2 Direct Burial wire.

Features & Benefits

• This TopNotch Pro Pack has everything you need to start your next lighting project
• Fixtures include 3W 36 Degree LED MR16 Lamps and 2.5W LED G4 Bi-Pin 2700k Lamps
• Includes 6 TN-BUL1-BK-LED-3FL Up Lights, 4 TN-PTH1-BK- Path Lights, 1 TN-TR1-150SS  Transformer, 1 Timer, 10 Ground Stakes, 20 Connectors, and 100 ft. wire

Specifications: