I am newcomer so this is my 1st post. I am a retired tech looking for a little advise on a home project. I want to install a double LED motion detecting light outside a bedroom but I want to be able to turn it on anytime from inside with a switch. I want to also add on another light to shine in both directions with one motion detector in the middle. I tested out this theory on a test motion detector module in the shop and when I throw the switch it blows the motion detector. I am thinking I need a diode of some type to prevent backflow of current. Am I thinking in the right direction? If so what type or size of a diode, and where to buy it?
Here is the motion/light I will be using; https://www.banggood.com/Wholesale-...V-p-54844.html?rmmds=myorder&cur_warehouse=CN
Add on light: https://www.banggood.com/Wholesale-...V-p-30604.html?rmmds=myorder&cur_warehouse=CN

Thanks Bobby

 

hi bobby,
Welcome to AAC.
You are working with mains AC, you cannot use a blocking diode in that circuit.

E

 

Mains AC? Suggestions?

 

hi,
You could add a mains relay coil across the light operated by the PIR, and its contacts control the second light.
E

 

hi,
You could add a mains relay coil across the light operated by the PIR, and its contacts control the second light.
E

I guess I was not clear in my original question? I can add the extra light by just paralleling the other light, but I need to add a switch to turn it on without the use of the motion detector. I suppose I could use a relay to do that too, but seems like a bit of an overkill to add on a relay and all this would need to be inside a ceiling box outside which would also mean extra wiring from inside too right?

When you stated, "You are working with mains AC, you cannot use a blocking diode in that circuit." What does "mains AC" mean? Also is a blocking diode only for dc circuits?
In my attached drawing, the switched power on the backside of the motion detector blew the circuit in the motion detector in the test.

 

hi jrh,
You did say you are a retired tech, as am I.
As you know, a diode will block an Alternating Current in only one direction.
So on the alternate unblocked half cycle there would be mains [ local power supply] across the PIR.

E

EDIT:
your diagram shows the 2nd light controlled in one condition, by the PIR, are you sure that the PIR can control two lights without damage.?

Is this an option.?

 

hi jrh,
You did say you are a retired tech, as am I.
As you know, a diode will block an Alternating Current in only one direction.
So on the alternate unblocked half cycle there would be mains [ local power supply] across the PIR.

E

EDIT:
your diagram shows the 2nd light controlled in one condition, by the PIR, are you sure that the PIR can control two lights without damage.?

Is this an option.?
View attachment 144904

 

Not sure, is there a limit to the number of lights a PIR can control?
In your drawing looks like the switch has to be on for the PIR to work?

 

The original switch will give you the option to turn the lights Off completly, even when the PIR is detecting.
The two pole switch enables you to select manual or PIR lights On.

Is that what you are asking.?
E

 

The original switch will give you the option to turn the lights Off completly, even when the PIR is detecting.
The two pole switch enables you to select manual or PIR lights On.

Is that what you are asking.?
E

Yes, I see now what you mean now, I suppose that would work. That would mean another wire from inside to the circuit for the 2 pole and the original on/off switch. Maybe this is not as easy as I thought it would be? Maybe I need to rethink it.
Thanks for your help E.
Bobby

 

hi Bobby,
My concern is the extra load on the PIR LED driver, it could damage the driver.

E

 

hi Bobby,
My concern is the extra load on the PIR LED driver, it could damage the driver.

E

Good thought E and one I never considered. Maybe that's why I already burned out one PIR already. I think I'll step back and reconfigure this project more after talking with you. Thank you so much for your input.
Bobby