Like the Entry sensor, Open Area sensors are typically a bit warmer than room temperature, but at certain times can reach as high as 135ºF (57ºC) when it is doing a lot of processing or when the ambient environment is especially warm (80ºF+). Normal operating temperature is between 115ºF - 125ºF (46ºC - 52ºC), which falls within industry and certification standards.
Density sensors are in compliance with industry requirements around temperature for their use case. For fixed or mounted devices, the exterior surface temperature limit is 140ºF (60ºC). We routinely test our Entry sensors for compliance using a FLIR (Forward-Looking Infrared) camera and thermocouples to ensure they never reach the temperature limit under multiple test scenarios.
I have to move my device. Is it safe to touch?
The sensor is safe to touch, even after it’s powered and operational, but it may be uncomfortable to hold for an extended period of time. If you need to move the Open Area sensor after it’s been online, we recommend unplugging the device and waiting a few minutes to cool down or wearing gloves so it’s more comfortable to hold the device for an extended period.
What can I do to avoid the sensor becoming too hot?
- Make sure the unit has sufficient clearance, per our installation recommendations.
- Open Area sensors should not be operated for an extended period while sitting face down on a surface. If the sensor is under heavy load for initial power on or testing and left sitting on a surface (not mounted above a space), temperatures will rise as airflow is restricted.
- Deploy Open Area in an indoor, temperature-controlled environment.
- Do not paint or cover the sensor.