Need to keep an outdoor lighting circuit connected without a photocontrol—or keep it open? Start with the circuit function, then select the cap’s IP rating and confirm the mating receptacle. This guide compares LONG-JOIN JL-208, JL-209 and UM-208 models available through CHI-SWEAR.

What is the difference between a shorting cap and an open circuit cap?

A shorting cap bridges the supply-to-load connection in a compatible photocontrol receptacle. An open circuit cap leaves that connection open. A shorting cap allows the luminaire circuit to receive power when upstream power is available; an open circuit cap prevents that path from being completed. Neither cap senses daylight or provides automatic dusk-to-dawn switching.

For a lighting fixture controlled by an upstream timer, contactor or central system, a shorting cap may provide the required continuity at the photocontrol socket. If the requirement is to keep that circuit path open, select an open circuit cap. An open circuit cap is not a substitute for disconnecting and isolating power before maintenance.

LONG-JOIN shorting cap and open circuit cap comparison

The following values come from the model-specific manufacturer datasheets. IP ratings depend on the specified installation and sealing arrangement; confirm the cap, receptacle and gasket as a complete assembly.

All six datasheets list 50/60 Hz, an ambient temperature range of −40°C to +70°C, and relative humidity of 96%. The humidity entry does not define additional test conditions. The shorting-cap load values are for tungsten and ballast loads; they should not be read as an independently verified LED-driver inrush rating.

JL-208-IP54, JL-208-IP66, JL-208-IP67 and JL-209 datasheets reference ANSI C136.10. The JL-208-IP66 sheet also references C136.41. For any 5-pin or 7-pin receptacle, confirm the exact mechanical and electrical pairing; a shorting cap does not add dimming, communication or smart-control functions.

Which shorting cap should you choose?

JL-208-IP54: when the specified assembly calls for IP54

Consider JL-208-IP54 when circuit continuity and the documented IP54 installation meet the project specification. Confirm the exposure conditions, receptacle and sealing components before ordering. Do not substitute it for an IP66 or IP67 requirement.

JL-208-IP66 and UM-208: compare two IP66 shorting-cap options

Both models list the same voltage range, frequency, ambient temperature and tungsten/ballast load values. JL-208-IP66 specifies a PC enclosure and PBT base. UM-208 specifies a PC enclosure; confirm its base material and exact receptacle pairing with your quotation. Choose using the required assembly dimensions, installation access and supporting documents.

View JL-208-IP66 · View UM-208

JL-208-IP67: for projects specifying IP67 protection

JL-208-IP67 combines a UV-stabilized PC enclosure, high-impact PBT base and twist-bar design. Its manufacturer datasheet lists IP67 protection. Ask for the installation arrangement and model-specific supporting documentation needed for your project. The cap rating alone does not establish the IP rating of every luminaire combination.

See JL-208-IP67 specifications and request a quotation.

When should you use a JL-209 open circuit cap?

Choose JL-209-IP54 or JL-209-IP66 when the required function is to leave the photocontrol circuit path open. Both list a PC enclosure, PBT base and 0–480 VAC range. Match the IP suffix to the project specification and confirm the installed seal.

Do not order JL-209 as a substitute for JL-208 when the luminaire must receive power through the receptacle. Similarly, fitting a shorting cap where an open circuit is required changes the circuit’s intended behavior.

Explore JL-209 open circuit cap options.

Five checks before ordering NEMA photocontrol caps

1. Confirm circuit function: continuity through the receptacle or an open circuit?
2. Identify the mating receptacle: send its model, pin arrangement, dimensions or clear photographs.
3. Specify the installed IP requirement: include gasket, mounting orientation and exposure conditions.
4. Check the electrical load: provide supply voltage, luminaire wattage and LED-driver inrush information where applicable.
5. Confirm the complete order code and documents: state any surge-protection requirement and required certification scope. Optional configurations must be confirmed by exact model and suffix.

Disconnect and isolate power before installation. Follow the mating receptacle’s wiring diagram, align the cap, push it into place and rotate clockwise to lock, as instructed in the manufacturer datasheets. Installation should be performed by qualified personnel.

Frequently asked questions

Will a shorting cap keep a street light on?

It provides continuity at the compatible photocontrol receptacle. The light can operate when the upstream circuit is energized and the driver and wiring are functioning. It does not override an upstream switch, timer or power interruption.

Does an open circuit cap provide a safe maintenance disconnect?

No. It leaves the specified circuit path open, but power must still be disconnected and isolated using the appropriate procedure before servicing.

Can I replace a photocell with a shorting cap?

Where the receptacle and electrical design are compatible, a shorting cap can maintain continuity without the photocell. Local daylight switching is removed; provide the required control elsewhere in the system.

Are IP66 and IP67 interchangeable?

Do not assume interchangeability. Ask for documentation covering the project’s specified water exposure and completed installation. Select a model and tested arrangement that meet those requirements.

Do all models include surge protection or the same certificates?

No universal configuration is claimed here. Request the exact order code, surge specification where required, and certificates whose scope covers the supplied model.

Technical references

Manufacturer model datasheets: JL-208-IP54 2304V3; JL-208-IP66 2304V4; JL-208-IP67 2606V3.0; UM-208 2402V2; JL-209-IP54 2304V3; JL-209-IP66 2304V3. Confirm the current approved specification and exact configuration with your quotation.