Several causes may explain the malfunction of your CAME DIR 10 photoelectric cells. Unlike other models, the DIR 10 cells do not require any special intervention for alignment thanks to their integrated optical-electronic circuit, which simplifies troubleshooting. Here are the essential points to check to identify and resolve the issue:
First, check the power supply. The DIR 10 cells operate at 12/24 V AC/DC. Ensure that the correct voltage is reaching the power terminals (marked Rx for the receiver and Tx for the transmitter). Visually inspect the electrical connections at the CAME control panel to determine if there is a cut, disconnection, or a blown fuse. A power supply issue is the most common cause of complete cell malfunction.
Immediately clean the infrared lenses. Even though the cell does not require precise alignment, the lenses must be clear for the infrared beam to function correctly. Check that the lenses are not obstructed by dust, dirt, limescale, or residues. Gently clean the lenses with a soft, dry cloth, without any harsh products. Also, ensure that no physical obstacles (branches, fences, vehicles) block the infrared beam between the transmitter and the receiver.
Inspect the wiring and connections to the control circuit. Examine the cables for cuts, fraying, or signs of mechanical wear. Check that the TX (transmitter) and RX (receiver) connections are properly connected to the correct terminals on the CAME panel (ZA2, ZE3, ZC2, ZH2, or ZR22 depending on your panel model). The DIR 10 cells use a relay contact that must transmit the signal: if this contact is damaged or its range exceeded (1 A max at 24 V), the relay will not close properly.
Check the operating conditions. The DIR 10 cells are guaranteed to operate between -20 °C and +70 °C. If the cells are exposed to extreme temperatures, they may not detect correctly or at all. Also, check that the cell is mounted about 50 cm off the ground, as recommended in the documentation. A positioning that is too high or too low can affect detection.
Test by temporarily disabling the cells. Disconnect the cells from the control circuit and manually restart the gate opening without the cell safety. If the gate operates normally without the cells, the problem lies with the cell itself or its connection. If the problem persists, it is a failure of the control circuit, not the cells. In case of persistent malfunction despite these checks, it is possible that the internal optical-electronic circuit is faulty and the DIR 10 cell needs to be replaced.
