The Luminator is a passive infrared sensor designed to automatically turn on lights when motion is detected within its coverage area. It is designed for outdoor use and can serve both as a welcoming device for visitors and a deterrent for intruders.

Function Description

The Luminator's infrared sensor detects small temperature changes caused by the motion of people or cars within its detection zone. Upon detection, it automatically activates connected lights. The lights remain on for a user-adjustable period after motion ceases, making the device energy-efficient as lights are only on when needed.

The device features a Test Period of 5 minutes after power is turned on. During this period, the unit will turn lights on for only 5 seconds each time it detects an object in its Detection Zone, allowing for a walk test during daylight. After the 5-minute test period, the Luminator resets to night-only operation. An additional 5-minute test period can be initiated by turning power off for 10 seconds, then back on. During darkness, lights will remain on after motion ceases, for the delay period set on the time control dial.

The Luminator can be controlled by a conventional indoor switch or circuit breaker. Lights can be turned on or off manually at night only using the Manual Override Mode. To activate this mode, flip the switch "off" then "on" again two times (off-on-off-on) within 2 seconds. To Resume Automatic Mode, flip the switch once (off-on) within 2 seconds, and the sensor will reset to Automatic Mode.

The Luminator may detect large animals. To limit animal detection, users can turn down the sensitivity knob or place electrical tape on the lower part of the lens, or both.

Important Technical Specifications

Catalog #: LS300 or LU300
Switching Capacity: 300 watts, 5 Amps
Voltage: 120 volts
Protection Pattern: 50′ x 110°
Time Adjustment: 5 seconds to 10 minutes
Lampholders: Maximum one 150 watt Par38 lamp per lampholder. Misc. Fixtures Suitable for Wet Locations.
Total Lighting Load: Must not exceed 300 watts.
Detection Pattern: Extends out 50 feet and is 110° wide.

Usage Features

Time and Sensitivity Adjustments: These controls are located on the underside of the sensor and can be adjusted with fingers.

Time: Sets the duration from 5 seconds to 10 minutes that lights remain on after the protection zone is vacated.
Sensitivity: Increases or decreases the responsiveness of the sensor and its range.

Lens Patterns: The sensor can be swiveled to cover the desired area. To reduce coverage, aim the sensor towards the ground.

Walk Test Procedure:

Aim the sensor across the desired traffic pattern.
Start outside the pattern and walk across it until the lights activate.
Adjust the sensor aiming as needed to improve coverage.
Adjust the sensitivity knob gently. Less sensitivity is desired for limited areas or to prevent activation by wind, foliage, or animals. More sensitivity helps cover a larger area.
Repeat steps 2-4 until coverage is satisfactory.
Set the "Time" control. The minimum setting is 5 seconds, the maximum 10 minutes. This period starts after movement in the protection pattern ceases.

Mounting:

Standard Wall Mounting: The sensor and lights are mounted on a stable surface.
Under Eave Mounting: Provides flexibility in aiming.
Aiming: The sensor should be level from side to side and pointed at the desired area. If tilted, part of the protection zone may be too high. Mounting at 6' to 10' allows maximum range. Movement directly towards the sensor is seen less quickly than movement across its pattern.

Maintenance Features

Troubleshooting - If Lights Do Not Turn Off:

Check Manual Override Mode: Ensure the sensor is not in Manual Override Mode. Turn power OFF for 10 seconds, then ON to reset to Test Mode (5 minutes) and then Auto Mode.
Time Control: Verify the Time Control on the sensor bottom is set at minimum.
Protection Pattern: Ensure no people are in the protection pattern.
Stable Mounting: Ensure the sensor is not mounted on an unstable object (e.g., a tree or pole) that moves in the wind.
Firm Mounting: Ensure the sensor and lights are mounted firmly and do not move when touched.
Aiming: Ensure the sensor is not aimed at objects causing temperature changes (trees, water, air conditioners, heating vents). If motion of trees triggers the sensor, aim it away or mask the lens.
Road Proximity: Ensure the sensor is not aimed within 20 feet of a road. A 20' safety zone is recommended to avoid activation from passing cars.

Troubleshooting - If Lights Turn On and Off:

Electrical Noise: Ensure there is no electrical "noise" on the circuit. Install the unit on its own dedicated circuit, separate from devices like air conditioners, water pumps, freezers, garage door openers, microwaves, or bathroom fans.
Parallel Wiring: Not recommended to wire sensors in parallel.
Protection Pattern: Keep all people completely out of the protection pattern.
Sensor and Lights Position: Ensure the sensor is located below and in front of its lights.
Reflections: Ensure lights are not reflecting back into the sensor. Check for white or reflective surfaces close to the sensor. If the sensor is triggered by reflections, aim it away from reflective objects or move them.
Road Proximity: Ensure the sensor is not aimed within 20 feet of a road. A 20' safety zone is recommended.
Refer to Solutions 4-6 under "If Lights Do Not Turn Off."

Troubleshooting - If Lights Do Not Turn On:

Lamps and Fixtures: Check that lamps and fixtures work. Compare wiring to the diagram in the manual and ensure power is on.
Daylight Installation: Remember the 5-minute Test Time. After 5 minutes, the sensor switches to Automatic Mode and will not work during daylight. To re-enter Test Mode, turn power off for 10 seconds, then back on.
External Light Sources: Check that lights from other sources (porch lights, garden lights, street lights) are not in the sensor's view. The photocell will detect the light and deactivate the sensor, mistaking it for daylight.

Troubleshooting - If Range Appears Limited:

Sensor Leveling: Ensure the sensor is level from side to side and pointed at the desired area. If tilted, part of the protection zone may be too high. Position the sensor exactly level.
Mounting Height: Do not mount the sensor too high. If mounted above 20 feet, much of the usable range will be lost. Mounting at 6' to 10' allows maximum range.
Movement Direction: Movement directly towards the sensor is seen less quickly than movement across its pattern.

Troubleshooting - Lights Turn On for Unknown Reasons:

Weather Conditions: Lights may turn on during rain, snow, and windstorms due to large temperature changes detected by the passive infrared sensor. Do not mount the sensor in an unprotected area.
Animals: Animals may trigger the sensor. Check sensor aiming to reduce nuisance triggering.
Voltage Surges: The sensor may turn on during voltage surges. Reset by turning power off for at least 10 seconds.
Radio Signals: Strong local radio signals (CB, Ham, VHF, Cellular tele-phones) can cause "mysterious" sensor activations. These signals will not permanently impair the sensor.
Refer to Solutions under "Lights Turn On and Off."

Extreme Weather Note: The Luminator is a passive infrared sensor that detects temperature changes. Dramatic changes in temperature during snowstorms, wind and rain storms, and sudden ambient temperature shifts can activate the lights. After severe weather, the sensor will reset to normal operation.

Limited Warranty: The Luminator will be replaced or repaired, at RAB Electric's option, if defective in workmanship or materials within three years from the date of original purchase. For repair or replacement, return the product freight prepaid and insured, including the sales receipt and a problem description. If out of warranty or damage is unrelated to original manufacture, the unit can be returned with a check for $15.00 for repair or replacement. RAB Electric is not liable for incidental or consequential damages.

RAB LUMINATOR LightAlert! LU300 - Luminator Lens Patterns; How Large an Area Does Luminator Protect?; Assembly and Wiring

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