What Mounting Methods are Available?

A critical aspect of implementing occupancy intelligence solutions is determining the best sensor mounting methods to meet the specific needs of our customers. Different facilities and spaces present unique challenges, from aesthetic preferences to structural complexities.

At VergeSense, we are committed to providing tailored solutions that cater to the specific needs of our customers, taking into account the sensor performance, compatibility, and design requirements. Today, we will explore the various mounting methods available for VergeSense sensors, highlighting the key aspects customers need to consider when selecting the right solution for their needs.

What are the Different Mounting Methods?

Mounting methods for VergeSense sensors are split into four tiers, each catering to different types of surfaces and installation complexity:

Tier 1: Magnetic mounting for metal surfaces. This method is the easiest and quickest to execute, as it involves simply snapping the sensor onto any metal surface. It is ideal for spaces with metal beams or suspended ceilings, making installation hassle-free.

Tier 2: Mounting using screws for hard surfaces like drywall ceilings. When it is not possible to utilize magnetic mounting – for instance, in spaces with hard, non-metal surfaces – this method serves as an efficient alternative. Attaching the mounting plate with screws secures the sensor in place on the drywall ceiling.

Tier 3: Wall mounting using custom or universal brackets, typically involving screws or adhesives. In cases where neither a metal nor drywall ceiling is available or suitable, wall mounting becomes the preferred choice. This method can adapt to the varying needs of different spaces, making it a versatile option for phone booths, glass walls, or other unconventional surfaces.

Tier 4: Open ceiling mounting, often using threaded rods for concrete slabs. For the most complex and resource-intensive installations, such as open ceilings or concrete slabs, this method is employed to ensure optimal sensor performance. While it takes longer and involves additional hardware, sensors can be brought down to the supported height range of 8 to 12 feet using threaded rods, enabling accurate occupancy tracking in these challenging environments.

As the complexity of the mounting method increases from tier one to four, so does the installation cost and resources required for each project.

Which Sensor Can Use Which Mounting Option?

Each sensor type has specific mounting options available, ensuring the best performance and compatibility with various surfaces.

Area Sensors: Both the wired E106 and wireless L302 area sensors can utilize any of the four mounting tiers, depending on customer need and preference. This flexibility allows these sensors to adapt seamlessly to various surfaces and installation complexities, from magnetic mounts for metal surfaces to threaded rods for open ceilings.

Entryway Sensors: While VergeSense area sensors are able to use any of the 4 tiers of mounting options, the EN-1 entryway sensor supports tiers one, two, and four. At the time of writing, out-of-the-box tier 3 mounting for entryway sensors is not available. While we dont currently offer the hardware out of the box, we will work with you to find the best option and provide guidance for tier 3 custom mounting.

When Do You Use Each Mounting Method?

The choice of mounting method depends on various factors, including the specific characteristics of the installation location, the customer's preferences, and the overall design considerations of the space. Some factors to consider when selecting the appropriate mounting method include:

Sensor performance: Regardless of the chosen method, the sensor's performance must never be compromised. As such, considerations such as the field of view, line of sight, and compatibility with the chosen surface must always be prioritized to ensure accurate occupancy tracking.
 
Structural limitations: Depending on the building's materials and construction, certain mounting methods may be more feasible and effective. For example, metal surfaces may favor magnetic mounts, while drywall or concrete may require alternative solutions.

Installation costs and resources: The complexity of installation increases from tier one to four, impacting the cost and resources required for each project. Balancing the customers' needs with the available budget and installation resources will help determine the most suitable mounting method for each case.

Customer preferences: Some customers may prioritize aesthetics and prefer a less visible or obtrusive installation method in line with their design vision. In such cases, higher tier mounting methods are often used. Custom solutions may be explored to accommodate these preferences.

What Height Should the Sensors be Mounted At?

Mounting sensors at the optimal height ensures the best performance, accuracy, and effectiveness in occupancy tracking. The ideal mounting height varies depending on the type of sensor:

Area Sensors: For area sensors like the wireless L302 and wired E106, the recommended mounting height range is between 8 and 12 feet. This range ensures the highest accuracy and performance. However, certain exceptions may apply, such as phone booths with heights at around 7 or 7.5 feet, where sensors can still function effectively.

Entryway Sensors: The EN-1 entryway sensor offers a broader height range, designed to meet diverse installation requirements. With a supported height range of 7.5 feet to 19.5 feet, VergeSense entryway sensors can cater to various environments with unique structural constraints. Despite its versatility, the EN-1 sensor still requires proper consideration of field of view, line of sight, and potential obstacles such as exit signs or lighting that may affect its performance.

Are There Different Color Options for the Mounting Hardware?

At the moment, VergeSense offers two color options for mounting hardware – black and white. Gateways are also available in these two colors, however, their color is determined by the network option selected. Cellular gateways are available in black, while ethernet or Power over Ethernet (PoE) gateways come in white.

Which Mounting Method is Right for Me?

The appropriate mounting method varies from customer to customer, building to building, and even space to space. Understanding the variety of mounting methods available for VergeSense sensors helps ensure that you can make the best choice for your unique spaces and requirements. However, you are not in this alone. The VergeSense team is ready to work closely with you to find the most suitable solution for their occupancy intelligence needs, even in complex scenarios requiring custom approaches. To learn more about the VergeSense Occupancy Intelligence Platform and find out what solutions may be right for you, talk to one of our specialists.