NLPIP Specifier Reports: Occupancy Sensors

Many new exit signs are available that use alternative light source technologies. Retrofit kits are also available for converting existing incandescent-type signs to more energy-efficient light sources. This Specifier Report covers both kinds of products: energy-efficient, internally illuminated exit signs and energy-efficient retrofit kits for existing internally illuminated exit signs. It includes manufacturers' product information for 57 products and the results of NLPIP's evaluations of the products' photometric properties, power characteristics, readability, and visibility in smoke. Many existing exit signs use incandescent lamps. By using light source technologies that are more energy efficient than conventional incandescent lamps, the power demand and energy consumption of exit signs can be reduced markedly.

This issue of Specifier Reports highlights occupancy sensors for industrial and commercial use and provides guidance for equipment selection and successful installation. It explains performance characteristics such as coverage area, coverage pattern, field of view, sensitivity, and time delay. It covers passive infrared, ultrasonic, and dual-technology (hybrid) occupancy sensors. Application and economic considerations for specifiers are discussed, and the report provides manufacturer-supplied data and brand-name performance results. The use of occupancy sensors in the U.S. has increased dramatically over the past ten years. Manufacturers have introduced many new products designed to address some of the known problems with occupancy sensors, such as failure to detect small motions and inappropriate switching of lamps.