
Wireless Solar Powered
Task Ambient PhotoSensor Installation
Guide
Product Overview
This guide covers model TAP-17 and TAP-17C.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
The model TAP-17C is equipped with an EnOcean 315MHz
radio and the TAP-17 model has the EnOcean 868MHz
radio.
The TAP Task Ambient Photosensor monitors light levels
within interior spaces and transmits the value to lighting
controllers.
The TAP measures ambient light in two ranges: 0-510 lux
(0 - 47 foot candles) and 0-1024 lux (0 - 95 foot candles)
and is intended for indoor use only.
The package includes the TAP light sensor and installation
guide.
NOTE: The TAP is a solar powered device that
absorbs solar energy storing it for use during low
light periods. Before assigning the TAP device to a
receiver/controller, the device must be exposed to a
good light source for a minimum of 2 hours.
NOTE: The radio is protected by a sealed screw.
Breaking this seal will void the warranty.
Echoflex Solutions, Inc.
# 1, 38924 Queens Way
Squamish, British Columbia
Canada V8B 0K8
Toll Free: (888) 324-6359
sales@echoflexsolutions.com
www.echoflexsolutions.com
Copyright 2011-2012 Echoflex Solutions, Inc.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Part # 8DC-5036 | Revision 1.7
FCC Part 15.231 (315MHz models only)
Contains FCC ID: XMG-STM112C
The enclosed device complies with Part 15 of
the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(I.) this device may not cause harmful interference and
(ii.) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
IC RSS-210: (315MHz models only)
Contains IC: 72561A-STM112C
Preparing to Install
Even with a brief exposure to light the TAP will operate
however, for best results the sensor should be mounted in
a location with exposure to light on a daily basis. The TAP
can be mounted on any surface; ceiling, wall, desk, cubicle
wall, etc.
The TAP sensor should be placed so there is direct
exposure to a window. The most common mounting
location for photo sensors is ceiling mount, centered with
the window, about 4' from the window. The TAP must be
installed in the space where the receiving lighting
controller is operating the light fixtures. There are online
software tools that can also assist in identifying the optimal
location to mount photo sensors. The TAP sensor can be
mounted using screws (not supplied) through the back
plate or using double sided tape or Velcro™ (not supplied).
1.) Attach the tape or Velcro to the back surface using two
pieces, each about 4cm. (1.5in.) in length. Insure none of
the tape will hang outside the sensors edges once
mounted.
2.) If you're using tape, remove the protective film to
reveal the sticky surface. If you are using Velcro, remove
the backing tape from the mating strip but do not separate
the Velcro strips.
3. Hold the sensor over the mounting location and gently
press to adhere.
The alternative method is to secure the photosensor with
screws and anchors (not supplied).
1.) Using a fingernail or small flat head screwdriver, pop
1

the rear mounting plate off the sensor.
2.) Using a drill suited to the wall anchor size ( #6 screw ),
bore the holes in the wall board.
3.) Insert the wall anchors as per package
recommendations, mount the back plate with the screws
4.) Snap on the photosensor body to the mounting plate.
Linking a TAP to a lighting controller
This process requires the controller or receiver to be
mounted and powered and within range of the sensor to be
linked
Teach
Button
1. Activate or mode at the
receiver, if necessary refer to the
manufacturers documentation.
2. Tap the sensors TEACH button.
3. Deactivate LEARN mode at the
receiver. test operation of the switch by
switching ON and OFF.
LEARN LINK
MDF 5 - 35%
Ferroconcrete 10 - 90%
Metal 90 - 100%
Aluminum 90 - 100%
Material Range-typical
Line of sight: 100’ (30m) corridors
Line of sight: 330’ (100m)open halls
Plasterboard: 100’ (30m) through 5 walls
Brick: 50’ (10m) through 1 wall
FerroConcrete: 33’ (10m)
Ceiling: not recommended
Wireless System Layout Hints
Avoid transmitting down a length of wall to reduce signal
ð
û
.
Receiver and
ü
Repeater
Transmission
Transmitter
reflection
Selecting the Light Range on the TAP sensor
1. Using a fingernail or small flat head screwdriver, pop the
rear mounting plate off the sensor to reveal the range slide
switch.
2. Slide the switch to the range setting required.
3. Press the rear mounting plate back into position.
Daylight Harvesting
The TAP sensor will repeatedly broadcast a telegram on a timer
(heart beat timer). The time period adjusts automatically to
the ambient light levels and energy charge stored on the
radio.
Light Level Charge Timer ( 10%)±
< 50 lux (4.6 FC) 2.3 .. 3 V 120 seconds
> 50 lux 3 V 30 seconds
> 50 lux 3 .. 4.5V linear ramp to 10 sec.
Installing Wireless Devices
Careful planning is needed when locating the controllers and
switches based on the construction materials in the space
and possibility of tenant's furniture disrupting the
transmissions.
The sensor should be installed in the space where the
receiving device is controlling the light fixtures or circuits
however the signal will travel through material barriers.
Refer to the table below for range considerations with
building materials that reduce the radio signal power.
Avoid transmissions that must penetrate walls at acute
ð
angles. This increases the wall material the telegram must
pass through, greatly reducing the signal power.
Obstacle
ü
û
ü
ü
Avoid large obstructions. Place receivers in alternate
locations to avoid the radio shadow or use repeaters to go
around the obstacle.
Do not locate receivers close to other high frequency
ð
transmitters. Leave at least 2’ between the receiver and any
other source of interference including, computers, video
equipment, Wi-Fi/LAN routers, GSM modems and monitors.
Transmitters are not affected by these sources of
interference.
ü
Material Attenuation
Wood 0 - 10%
Plaster 0 - 10%
Glass 0 - 10%
Brick 5 - 35%
2