For a closed single-level garage, acoustic technology is unsurpassed it is the only technology that permits activation before entry into the premises. For multi-storey open garages we refer to detection using IR detectors.

Light sources

This application shows an example of fittings with 50 Hz choke devices or non-dimmable HF operating devices. With conventional operating devices (choke operation), electronic activators (e.g. AURA Strike) must be used to reduce wear on the fluorescent tubes.

Control system

The AD-600 acoustic detector can be seen as a small central unit for presence detection with the option of linking up other sensors. Access-control systems, magnetic contacts and IR detectors are examples of additional input signals to ensure a high comfort level in the system. It is also possible to supply additional IR detectors with power from the sound detector.

To ensure activation if the garage door is of the roller type, a magnetic contact can detect the door unless the door machinery itself creates such a noise that activation takes place. Leave it open pending testing!

We recommend the load be subdivided into two groups of two phases and one phase respectively, controlled by the acoustic detector’s A and B channels. Upon deactivation, two phases are initially broken (Group A), and if there is no detection within 30 seconds the third phase is deactivated (Group B).

Power consumption diagram

The diagram shows a comparison of the power consumption of different systems for presence-controlled lighting in a Swedish garage.

The red curve shows the power consumption in a system that is described in this application (1A). It can clearly be seen that the saving could be much higher see the yellow and green curves. This type of presence-controlled lighting is not good and we do not recommend it.

The yellow curve shows the energy consumption for the same type of control system but with non-dimmable HF ballasts. These light fittings reduce the energy consumption by 25 per cent but produce the same amount of light.

This creates differentiated deactivation, so that if anyone is in the garage when Group A is deactivated it suffices to issue a sound for the lighting to be completely activated again. The acoustic detector can be programmed so that half of the fittings are alternately activated and deactivated. This evens out wear and means a decrease in the number of activations and hot starts. The need for basic light is satisfied using separate emergency light fittings. For adjustment and programming of the acoustic detector please refer to the detector’s manual.

Positioning of detectors

The microphones should be positioned at up to twice the radius between them. The range of the microphones can be 20 – 25 m radius depending on acoustic conditions. Ceilings provided with acoustic plates can reduce the range of the HF signal. Connection of the microphones, which are connected in parallel, can use EKKX 1 x 4 x 0.25 mm2.

Consider the correct fittings and the correct control method.

If, through lack of knowledge, non-dimmable ballasts have already been fitted, it is still worthwhile to install a presence detection system to control the lighting, as this will still yield a saving.

The green curve shows the energy consumption for a system with dimmable HF ballasts and “dynamic lighting control”, which gives by far the biggest energy saving. See also the applications in the “Planning guide” that are marked “dynamic lighting control”, and take a close look at application 1F for garages. This application shows a system where the lighting is also daylight-dependent.