read lamp status and write into database

Projects Programming
1

hello everyone.
i'm just a newbie in arduino but i have been assigned to a project using arduino by my leader.

the question is
how do i read lamp status[on/off]
while the lamp is generate by another source power

case
i want to read status from the equipment is it on or off
and display the status of the lamp.
and write into local database.

if this question already answered,
please help me paste the url.
(maybe i use the wrong keyword on google, that's why i open this topic)

2

Simplest way is to put a sensor (that can detect light levels) in front of the lamp; ldr and phototransistor come to mind.

Can you (or are you allowed to) make modifications to the equipment?

3

sterretje:
Simplest way is to put a sensor (that can detect light levels) in front of the lamp; ldr and phototransistor come to mind.

Can you (or are you allowed to) make modifications to the equipment?

this is an outdoor equipment.
is there any method the light sensor to identify is it morning,noon, evening or night sir?
i think it's too many parameters.

4

Assuming you want a non-destructive/non-invasive method, have a look at clamp-on current sensors. Not only would you be able to detect on/off, but also how much power it's consuming.

5

DKWatson:
Assuming you want a non-destructive/non-invasive method, have a look at clamp-on current sensors. Not only would you be able to detect on/off, but also how much power it's consuming.

i see, thank you very much sir.

6

The Arduino analog pins are pretty sensitive to EMI. Try Googling 'non contact voltage detector arduino' and see what happens.