PIR & Motion Sensor
PIR & Motion Sensor
Introduction Power surges, lightning strikes, or accidental application of high voltage can damage PIR sensors. This guide helps you assess the damage and possibly recover the sensor. Symptoms of Surge Damage Sensor completely dead (no output, no LED if present)…
Overview A suburban school district with 25 elementary schools, 500 classrooms, and 10,000 students was facing budget cuts and rising energy costs. The district’s energy bill was $2.5 million annually, with schools consuming 60% of that during unoccupied hours (evenings,…
Overview A mid-sized hotel chain with 1,500 guest rooms across 10 properties was spending $2 million annually on energy costs. Guest rooms accounted for 60% of this total, with HVAC systems running 24/7 regardless of occupancy. The chain’s energy audit…
Introduction High-power radio transmitters like ham radio rigs (100W+) or CB radios can cause PIR sensors to false-trigger. The strong RF field can be rectified by the sensor’s electronics, creating false signals. How RF Interference Happens The high-gain amplifiers in…
Overview A 50,000 square foot office building in Chicago, Illinois, was struggling with high energy costs from lighting and HVAC systems that operated on fixed schedules. The building was occupied from 8 AM to 6 PM weekdays, but many areas…
Introduction Construction sites present extreme challenges for PIR sensors: dust, vibration, temperature swings, and no power. This guide covers the best options for equipment security and site monitoring. Key Requirements for Construction Sensors 1. Ruggedness IP65 or higher rating for…
Introduction High humidity environments like bathrooms, greenhouses, and tropical locations can cause PIR sensors to malfunction. Moisture in the air and on the lens interferes with infrared transmission. How Humidity Affects PIR Sensors Water Vapor Absorption Water vapor absorbs infrared…
Introduction Hotels face a constant challenge: maintaining guest comfort while controlling energy costs. PIR sensors provide an effective solution, detecting occupancy and automatically adjusting room settings when guests are present or absent. Key Requirements for Hotel Sensors 1. Energy Savings…
Introduction Healthcare facilities have unique requirements for PIR sensors: patient monitoring, fall detection, hygiene compliance, and privacy preservation. This guide covers the best options for medical environments. Key Requirements for Healthcare Sensors 1. Fall Detection Sensors must detect falls and…
Introduction If you live close to neighbors, their security lights can cause your PIR sensors to false-trigger. The lights themselves emit IR, and they also illuminate areas that your sensor sees. How Neighbor’s Lights Cause False Triggers Direct IR from…