An on/off occupancy sensor connected to a control system is generally connected to which type of output?

An on/off occupancy sensor is designed to detect the presence of individuals in a space and provide a clear binary output: either the space is occupied or unoccupied. This results in a signal that is purely digital in nature, meaning it represents two states—either 'on' (occupied) or 'off' (unoccupied).

Digital outputs are suited for such applications because they can communicate these distinct states effectively. In control systems, when the occupancy sensor detects motion, it sends a high signal (on) to trigger the connected devices like lights or HVAC systems and sends a low signal (off) once the area is no longer occupied. This straightforward binary output aligns with the functioning of digital systems, which are designed to process and respond to two distinct states without the need for nuanced variations in signal strength or conditions.

While other output types, such as relay and contact outputs, can also be used in similar contexts, they typically serve additional functions or are used in specific scenarios that go beyond the simple on/off state conveyed by an occupancy sensor. In contrast, analog outputs provide a range of values, which is unnecessary for a device that only needs to indicate occupancy status. Thus, the digital output is the most appropriate choice for an on/off occupancy sensor within a control