photocell

[ foh-toh-sel ]

noun

, Electronics.

1. a solid-state device that converts light into electrical energy by producing a voltage, as in a photovoltaic cell, or uses light to regulate the flow of current, as in a photoconductive cell: used in automatic control systems for doors, lighting, etc.

photocell

/ ˈfəʊtəʊˌsɛl /

noun

1. a device in which the photoelectric or photovoltaic effect or photoconductivity is used to produce a current or voltage when exposed to light or other electromagnetic radiation. They are used in exposure meters, burglar alarms, etc Also calledphotoelectric cellelectric eye

photocell

/ fō′tō-sĕl′ /

1. See photoresistor

Word History and Origins

Origin of photocell¹

First recorded in 1890–95; photo- + cell

Example Sentences

You can set the lights to come on and go off at any time you choose or use the photocell and have them on at dusk and off at dawn.

From Seattle Times

The miles of relays and photocells had given way to the spongy globe of plantinumiridium about the size of a human brain.

From Literature

The young Arthur received cast-off equipment, such as telephones, switch-gear and a photocell from his relative George Grimstone, an engineer who taught him to build wireless crystal sets.

From Nature

Today we combine a laser and a photocell, or a radar transmitter and a radio telescope, and in this way make active contact by light with distant objects.

From Literature

It can be hooked up to a photocell to track the amount of light hitting crops on a daily or weekly basis or it can monitor heat and humidity or track shipments, said Ajayi.

From Washington Times