A motion sensor is an electronic device that has a very wide range of applications in everyday life. It is most often installed in various types of installations, such as alarm systems or lighting. What is the principle of operation of a motion sensor, how to properly calibrate the device and what motion sensors are available? You will find out in this article!
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How do motion sensors work?
The mechanism of action in motion sensors depends primarily on the device variant, its structure and the technology used. Currently, the most commonly used solutions are those based on infrared , ultrasound or microwaves. Depending on the medium used, there are active sensors, also called radar, which use electromagnetic waves, while in the second variant of active devices , ultrasound is responsible for sending and receiving. In turn, in passive motion sensors, the devices operate using infrared .
In active sensors, the basis of operation are signals - sent and received by appropriate system elements. Depending on the variant, these are ultrasounds (mechanical factors) or electromagnetic waves, which can be transmitted both in the microwave and visible light range. The beams are sent, and when they encounter an "obstacle", they are reflected from it, returning to the transmitting and receiving device. By detecting movement, they activate the installation in which they are installed (turn on the alarm or lighting). The physical phenomenon of the Doppler effect is used on a wide scale, not only in medicine. Changes in wave frequency are detected in various types of systems. When the sending and receiving beams have the same length, it means that it is reflected from walls, furniture, etc., because the relative position of the objects and the device has not changed. If an additional object appears in the path of the transmitted wave, the wave frequency changes and the sensor receives information that motion has been detected .
How to properly calibrate the motion sensor?
Proper calibration of sensors is necessary for the proper operation of the entire system. To enjoy full functionality, the whole thing must be properly located and the sensor must be properly installed . You will need all the items included in the kit to connect and calibrate. Depending on the model, it may be necessary to use an appropriate control and power supply system. The selection of cables and their installation should be done by professionals to avoid failures.
Calibration is carried out in accordance with the guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the selected sensor variant and the technology in which it operates. In most solutions, you can control and properly set the operating range according to your individual needs. Just program the appropriate sensor to adapt the solution to your needs. Calibration includes in particular:
- the SENS parameter, the value of which is expressed numerically, refers to determining the sensitivity and operating range of the motion sensor,
- LUX parameter - concerns the setting of the twilight sensor, it is expressed in lumens per square meter,
- TIME parameter, meaning the switching time of the device connected to the sensor , this value is expressed in seconds or minutes.
Specific values can be assigned to the sensor so that it works as expected. Adjusting the system with motion and dusk sensors is usually not complicated, because modern solutions are equipped with special knobs whose position allows for correction of operation.
How does a microwave motion sensor detect motion?
Microwave sensors send electromagnetic waves in a narrow band, which makes the devices exceptionally sensitive and highly precise. The greatest advantages of this variant include the fact that they are insensitive even to large temperature changes, and operate efficiently and without failures.
The emitted and received microwaves make it possible to detect the movement of objects, including those that are moving in parallel - approaching or moving away from the sensor. Additionally, microwaves can pass through small objects, including thin walls and glass. Most microwave-based devices can be adjusted to determine the operating range. The sensitivity of the device means that it detects every movement, even when it is generated, for example, by a cleaning robot.
Before deciding to purchase a motion sensor using microwaves, remember that electronic devices within the sensor's operating range (especially if they also emit microwaves) or a large area of metal surfaces may cause disruptions in stable and effective operation.
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When is it worth using a microwave motion sensor?
Devices using microwaves are characterized by high operating accuracy. Therefore, the microwave motion sensor will be much more effective in difficult conditions. It works perfectly in the dark, in fog, and is insensitive to changes in temperature, wind, etc. It allows you to detect potential movement from a greater distance. It is also said to be highly effective because it allows the detection of the movement of very diverse objects - characterized by different sizes and shapes.
These models will work perfectly, for example, in warehouses or outside buildings. It is recommended as a motion sensor for alarms due to its high sensitivity. Motion sensor alarm using microwave beams ensures high security .
What is a PIR motion sensor?
The PIR motion sensor is one of the currently very popular passive devices. The abbreviation PIR comes from the English Passive Infra-Red. Its essence is to operate in the infrared band, which allows it to detect heat emitted, for example, by the human body. The operating mechanism enables the detection of temperature changes in the room where the device operates with high accuracy. These technologically advanced solutions can easily distinguish heat-emitting objects from humans or animals, and some of the currently available models also distinguish humans from pets.
When choosing a PIR sensor, remember that it is a device that does not emit any waves, so its area of influence is limited only to the room in which it is located.
The most frequently mentioned advantages of PIR sensors include a relatively wide detection angle. To make the most of the possibilities offered by the device, it should be installed, for example, on a wall or ceiling. This is the best option if you need to detect the motion of an object moving perpendicular to the sensor .
A big advantage of modern PIR motion detectors is that they are programmed in such a way as to distinguish humans and pets. This effect was achieved thanks to technology. The device detects animals, i.e. objects whose thermal distribution resembles that of a human, but if its mass is significantly smaller, the object is ignored.
Application and advantages of the presence sensor
The presence sensor is also very popular. It is often used in lighting installations, where the generated movement turns on the light , specific lamps, stairs illumination - depending on the design of the entire system. In sensors responsible for lighting control, it is possible to set a time interval during which the lit system elements do not turn off even if the detector does not detect any new movement.
Modern garden with motion sensor lamps
Convenient lighting control using motion sensors is used, among others, in gardens or in front of the house. Typically, these devices are equipped with additional functionality - they also have a dusk sensor. The mechanism of action here is based on the assessment of light intensity. The entire system is then designed in such a way that the intensity is first checked, and if its value is lower than the set value, then the motion sensor is activated. This is a perfect solution to ensure that a motion sensor lamp located in the garden, on the driveway or in front of the front door turns on only after dark.
Motion sensors at the Onninen wholesaler
The Onninen electrical wholesaler 's offer includes a very extensive range of motion sensors and accessories necessary for proper installation. Depending on the application , these are solutions enabling effective operation of alarms or lighting control, enabling the lamp to be turned on under conditions specified in the system.
Certainly worthy of attention are: modern, modern-style facade fixtures by STEINEL . An example would be the Steinel L830 iHF motion sensor lamp . A modern proposal that uses, among others, bluetooth module, making it easier to control the device. The motion sensor in the presented model is very subtle and unobtrusive, which is why it is appreciated by people who care about the aesthetic appearance of their home. In the model in question, the detection angle is as much as 160°, and the light can be activated after detecting movement even at a distance of 5 m. A big advantage is that the llama is turned on only when the motion sensor detects the presence of a human. The device has been programmed to ignore other factors, such as animals, rain or leaves falling in the wind.
Where it is necessary to ensure the safety of people and property, it is best to invest in motion sensors connected to an alarm. They enable effective monitoring of the surroundings , and the distance depends primarily on the device variant. The motion sensor with IP44 wireless signaling provides a range of up to 120 m, making it ideal for monitoring the surroundings of the facility, including the entrance door. It can be used in residential construction, but it will also help protect warehouses and parking lots. The equipment works wirelessly, but appropriate batteries are required. Fortunately, the manufacturer has ensured that a notification is sent to the user when the battery level is low.