V-TAC VT-838 garden bollard 60 cm E27, PIR sensor + 2 mains sockets, black stainless steel, IP44

VT-838 is a garden bollard 60 cm tall and 7.6 cm across, on a base of 11 cm. Two things set it apart from an ordinary garden fitting, and both are only visible close up: it has a motion sensor and two mains sockets in the body.

Two sockets in the garden

The built-in two EU-type sockets turn the lamp into a power point. It solves a problem almost every garden has: a mower, a strimmer, a pressure washer or Christmas lighting need power where the installation usually ends. Instead of running an extension lead from the house, they plug into a bollard standing halfway across the lawn. The sockets are protected by flaps and the whole fitting is rated IP44.

The motion sensor — with real figures

The manufacturer gives the full PIR specification rather than just its presence: 100° detection angle, 2-8 metre range, on-time adjustable from 5 seconds to 5 minutes and a 2-200 lux ambient-light threshold. That last figure decides whether the lamp comes on only after dark or on an overcast afternoon too — and being adjustable, it can be set for the specific spot. The 2-8 m range matches the width of a typical path or driveway.

You choose the lamp

The fitting takes an E27 lamp of up to 60 W — there is no built-in LED, so colour and brightness are yours to choose. Gardens usually call for warm 2700-3000 K, which attracts fewer insects than cool light. With a sensor, bear in mind that not every LED lamp enjoys frequent switching — sources rated for a high number of switching cycles last longer here.

Specification

• Manufacturer symbol: VT-838; order code 8979
• Type: garden bollard with motion sensor and mains sockets
• Lamp socket: E27, max 60 W (lamp not included)
• Mains sockets: 2 × EU plug
• PIR sensor: 100° angle, 2-8 m range, 5 s - 5 min timer, 2-200 lx threshold
• Voltage: AC 220-240 V, 50 Hz
• Dimensions: Ø7.6 × 60 cm; base Ø11 cm
• Material: stainless steel and polycarbonate
• Colour: black
• Ingress protection: IP44
• Operating temperature range: −20 °C … +45 °C
• Weight: 1.17 kg
• Certification: CE, EMC, RoHS
• Manufacturer warranty: 3 years

Where to place it

The manufacturer aims this model at gardens, poolsides, walkways, driveways, patios and entrances. It makes most sense where three needs meet: light after dark, automation and access to power — by a gate, by a garage, or halfway along a long path to the house. Since the sensor responds to movement within 8 m, position the bollard so its detection field covers the approach rather than the street beyond the fence.

A note on installation

The mains sockets mean full 230 V runs through the bollard even when the lamp is off — installation belongs to an electrician, with an RCD on the garden circuit. IP44 protects against rain and splashing but not immersion: do not place the bollard in a hollow where water stands after a downpour.

About the manufacturer

V-TAC is a European LED lighting manufacturer headquartered in Sofia, with offices in Poland, Hungary and Romania among others. This model carries a 3-year warranty.