How to Install A Triton ULTRA Sensor
This guide covers the physical hardware installation of Triton ULTRA, including what's in the box, mounting hardware recommendations for different ceiling types, PoE wiring, and the step-by-step mounting process. For the full installation guide, follow the Scribe guide linked below.
Before installing, review our Device Placement and Best Practices guide for recommended mounting height, coverage areas, and feature optimization tips.
What tools and hardware do I need?
- Triton ULTRA sensor
- Mounting backplate and security screw (included in the box)
- A PoE network connection (PoE switch or PoE injector)
- Appropriate mounting hardware for your ceiling type (see below)
What's included in the box?
Each Triton ULTRA box includes: 2 #8 drywall screws, 2 drywall anchors, 1 security screw (Phillips head, for locking the sensor to the backplate), 1 mounting backplate, and 1 GPIO contact/relay terminal. These components are suitable for standard drywall or plasterboard ceilings.
What hardware do I need for other ceiling types?
Drop ceilings (T-grid or suspended ceilings): Use T-bar ceiling clips or twist-on grid clips to fasten the backplate directly to the ceiling grid without drilling. Alternatively, use 1/8" or 3/16" toggle bolts through the ceiling tile for a more secure hold when there's space above the tile. Optionally, add a safety tether wire to prevent the sensor from falling if the ceiling grid is disturbed.
Concrete or masonry ceilings: Use masonry screws or concrete anchors (e.g., Tapcon screws). A surface mount box or conduit box can be installed first to conceal wiring and provide a solid anchor point.
Metal ceilings: Use self-tapping sheet metal screws (#8 x ½") with washers to distribute pressure. Confirm that the metal surface is stable and can support the sensor's weight.
How do I wire the PoE connection?
Triton ULTRA uses Power over Ethernet (PoE) to provide both power and data through a single network cable. Each sensor has two network ports on the back:
- PoE IN — connects to the network or PoE switch
- PoE OUT — used to daisy-chain additional sensors
Use CAT6 or CAT5e Ethernet cable for all connections. Make sure both connectors are fully inserted and secure.
Daisy-chaining: With a standard PoE switch, you can daisy-chain up to 3 sensors on a single run. With a PoE+ switch, you can chain up to 5. Each sensor in the chain gets its own IP address and operates independently.
Important considerations:
- Confirm your switch or injector can supply enough total wattage for all connected devices. If sensors lose power or reset intermittently, the switch may be overloaded.
- Do not exceed a total cable length of 100 meters (328 feet) between the switch and the final sensor in the chain.
- For longer runs or noisy electrical environments, use shielded Ethernet cable for best performance.
If PoE is not available, sensors can also be powered using 12V DC while connected to WiFi for data. See our How To Connect Triton ULTRA to WiFi guide and the Device Placement and Best Practices guide for recommendations on WiFi-powered installations.
How do I mount the sensor?
- Secure the backplate firmly to the ceiling using the appropriate hardware for your ceiling type.
- Slide the sensor onto the backplate until it clicks into place.
- Tighten the included security screw to lock the device in position.
- Confirm the device is level and does not rock or twist on the mount.
That's it — once mounted and connected to PoE, the sensor will power on and begin operating. From here, proceed with software setup through either the local on-prem interface or Triton Cloud.
Need help? Contact us at support@tritonsensors.com or call 800-305-1617.