This blog post deals with microwave sensors. Especially how they are used with general lighting components to realize intelligent lighting systems. Some pictures enlighten the possibilities of microwave sensor technology better than hundreds of words.
Microwave Sensors
Microwave motion sensors operate in a different way that e.g. more commonly used passive infrared sensors. MW sensor sends out microwaves and analyzes the echo that comes back to the device. If the movement changes the echo pattern the sensor will respond and switch the light on.
Microwave sensors have a consistent capability of detecting movement over all temperatures. PIR sensors’ detection sensitiveness might vary depending on the temperature. In addition, infrared sensors are vulnerable to dust and smoke and tend to have a shorter lifespan.
The lifetime of a microwave sensor is around 50.000 hours and our sensors are completely dust- and smoke-proof.
Example of a detection pattern when the sensor is mounted either on a wall or on the ceiling. Detection area can often be precisely set via dipswitches.
Microwave sensors can also detect movement through some non-metal materials such as glass and even thin walls. This gives more options for installing the sensor because it can be located out of sight or inside the luminaire.
Energy-saving In More Ways Than One
In addition to the traditional ON-OFF -control of a luminaire our sensors offer a wider selection of functions. You can also choose between 2-step and 3-step dimming. You can create larger networks of luminaires by utilizing RF communication between sensors to control several luminaires at once.
Some products have built-in daylight sensors, which enables you to fully take advantage of daylight and maintain sufficient light levels during dusk and dawn. This is called daylight harvesting.
Wikipedia states that several studies are implying to energy savings through daylight harvesting being around 20-60%. The greatest savings are achieved in rooms and areas where daylight has a significant impact on the lighting conditions through large windows for example.
In addition to energy savings, using these sensors also prolong the lifetime of your luminaires when luminaires are not on unless the light is actually needed.
Daylight sensor detects the level of ambient light and adjusts artificial light accordingly.
Endless Possibilities to Better Lighting Conditions
Correct lighting conditions make reading and writing more enjoyable, improves safety and can even have a positive effect on health. Where to use these sensors to get the best possible benefit out of them?
Some sensors are stand-alone models and can be connected to the LED driver. Other sensor products already include the driver. This gives you more options when you’re planning your lighting setup.
I have picked a few examples for you just to give you an idea of all the possibilities this kind of intelligent lighting control technology possesses.
Balcony: On/Off — Warehouse: 3-step dimming — Office: Daylight Harvesting
Restaurant: DALI LED Driver — Restroom: 3-step Dimming — Gas Station: Cluster Control & Daylight Harvesting
Conference Room: Cluster control — Underground Parking: 2-step Dimming — Stairwell: RF Wireless Control
As you can see, there are numerous function options and product combinations. To see a more detailed list of all the different types of sensor products in our range, take a look at our website.
To download a presentation on these sensor products, simply click the button below.
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