How to Connect a Photocell
Photocells are types of resistors that react to the amount of lighting they are exposed to. When any kind of light reaches the cell, their electric current flows more freely. When it is dark, however, their resistance increases dramatically, limiting the flow of their electric current. If you have already wired your photocell lighting, this article will help you connect a photocell with a make controller.
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Instructions
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1
Turn off your home's source of electricity from the main breaker box.
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2
Strip the ends of the wires at the light post.
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3
Connect the red wire to VIN, set to 3.3V.
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4
Connect the yellow wire to the analog input.
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5
Connect the black wire to GND.
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6
Attach the 1K resistor from the signal lead.
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7
Connect a wire that goes to the analog input from the top side of the 1K resistor.
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8
Send that connection to GND from the bottom side of the resistor.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are not utilizing a make controller kit, you will need to add a resistor of your own to create the appropriate circuit. The voltage being used by the photocell is what gets measured by the analog input of your Make Controller. When trying to determine what resistor would work best in your voltage divider, take the photocell and an ohmmeter to your desired setting.
Never make any adjustments to electrical wiring of any kind without first turning off the electricity from your home's main breaker box.
