FAQ
TL;DR: Use a relay: “connect the coil of the relay (24 V DC) in parallel” with the HATO 180 courtesy light, and switch the 230 V lamp on the relay contacts. This keeps wiring simple and safe for one or two drives. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19778965]
Why it matters: DIY HATO 180 owners can add brighter outdoor lighting for safety without modifying the controller or losing the built‑in behavior.
Quick Facts
- The built‑in HATO 180 light stays on about 3 minutes after opening; an external lamp can mirror this. [Elektroda, shl222, post #19778819]
- Courtesy light feed is approx. 24 V; the yard lamp is 230 V AC, so you need a relay interface. [Elektroda, shl222, post #19778819]
- Wiring: put a 24 V DC relay coil in parallel with the bulb; switch 230 V on the relay contacts. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19778965]
- A suitable pick is Finder 40.61, 24 V DC coil, ~16 A SPDT contact rating. [Elektroda, 78db78, post #19779177]
- For two operators, use one relay per drive and parallel their NO contacts to one lamp. [Elektroda, alster1, post #19779199]
How do I connect a 230 V lamp to my HATO 180’s 24 V light output?
Use an interface relay. Connect a 24 V DC relay coil in parallel with the operator’s courtesy bulb. When the bulb energizes, the relay pulls in. Wire the 230 V lamp through the relay’s NO contacts. This keeps low‑voltage control isolated from mains. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19778965]
Is the HATO 180 light output AC or DC, and which relay coil do I need?
Use a 24 V DC relay coil, as recommended. Match the coil type to the output type to ensure proper operation. Verifying the output avoids nuisance chatter or mis‑triggering. A DC coil in parallel with the bulb is the intended approach. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19778965]
What relay model is a good choice for this job?
Finder 40.61 with a 24 V DC coil is a solid option. It offers an SPDT contact rated around 16 A for mains switching. Pairing it with a compatible base simplifies wiring and service. This model was specifically suggested for visibility and reliability. [Elektroda, 78db78, post #19779177]
Why can’t I use a random small relay board for 230 V?
Some small relays are not rated for 230 V AC circuits or safe mains isolation. Using them risks arcing, overheating, or insulation failure. Choose a relay explicitly specified for 230 V AC switching. Ensure proper creepage, clearance, and enclosure for safety. [Elektroda, alster1, post #19779190]
Can one 230 V lamp be triggered from two HATO drives?
Yes. Use a separate relay for each drive, with each coil fed from its own courtesy‑light output. Connect the relays’ NO contacts in parallel to the same lamp circuit. Either operator will then light the lamp when active. [Elektroda, alster1, post #19779199]
Should the two relays’ contacts be wired in series or parallel?
Wire them in parallel, not series. “Parallel” lets either operator power the lamp independently. Series wiring requires both relays closed and defeats the purpose. Parallel contacts deliver the expected either‑or behavior safely. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19779269]
Do I need diodes to isolate the relay coils when using two drives?
No. If each coil is powered by its own drive’s courtesy‑light output, isolation diodes are unnecessary. The coils do not backfeed each other in that setup. Keep coil circuits separate and use one relay per operator. [Elektroda, pafciowaw, post #19781313]
What if I worry about backfeed between boards—any mitigation?
If you suspect a shared common or cross‑coupling, add series diodes to each coil feed. As one expert noted, “separate the relay coils with diodes?” This simple measure blocks backfeed while keeping operation independent. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19779269]
Will the external lamp follow the same on‑time as the internal bulb?
Yes. Because the relay coil mirrors the courtesy‑light circuit, the external lamp follows that timer. The internal lamp stays on for about three minutes after opening. Your external lamp will match that behavior when wired as described. [Elektroda, shl222, post #19778819]
Where do I find HATO 180C board documentation and connector info?
Check the HATO 180C electronics page and assembly instructions referenced in the thread. Review connector labels for the courtesy‑light output before wiring. Confirm polarity or output type to select the correct relay coil. [Elektroda, Sam Sung, #19778901]
How do I wire this—quick 3‑step guide?
- Isolate power and open the operator enclosure.
- Connect a 24 V DC relay coil in parallel with the courtesy bulb wiring.
- Wire the 230 V lamp through the relay’s NO contacts, using a proper enclosure and cable management. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19778965]
Can I power a 230 V lamp directly from the 24 V output?
No. The 24 V output is only for the small courtesy bulb. Use it to drive a relay instead. Switch the 230 V lamp on the relay’s mains‑rated contacts to stay safe and compliant. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #19778965]
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