motion sensor light switch help

[seamlyne]

The first picture is what I have: an existing light switch interrupting a hot run. The other two pictures are instructions that came with a motion sensor light switch. I can't wrap my head around what I need to do to wire it in to control the lighting in the room. I'd appreciate any help.

- Wm

[adnadeau]

Your first picture shows what's known as a switch leg. The white wire should have been colored black. There doesn't seem to be a neutral in the box. That motion sensor switch needs to be powered, so it won't work without a neutral. You either have to replace the existing wiring with a 3-wire plus ground Romex, or find a motion detector switch that doesn't require a neutral. Check out the Leviton PR180, which gets its power through the load.

[seamlyne]

The third picture that illustrates the switch shows the neutral just passing the switch by, with the switch interrupting only the black - which seems similar to the switch leg. Am I reading that incorrectly?

[adnadeau]

No, you're correct. I read the diagram too quickly. The neutral in the picture bypasses the switch. You just have to figure which of the 2 switch wires is the hot one & which goes to the light fixture & connect them accordingly. Sorry about the confusion.