An Arduino PIR Motion Sensor Module is a device that detects the presence of a moving object by sensing changes in infrared radiation. PIR stands for “Passive Infrared” and refers to the fact that the sensor detects infrared radiation emitted by objects in its field of view, rather than actively emitting its own infrared radiation.
The sensor module typically consists of a PIR sensor, an LED, and a potentiometer. The PIR sensor detects the infrared radiation emitted by a moving object, the LED is used to indicate motion detection, and the potentiometer is used to adjust the sensitivity of the sensor. The sensor can be connected to an Arduino microcontroller, which can then be programmed to perform various functions based on the sensor’s output.
One of the key specifications of an Arduino PIR Motion Sensor Module is its detection range. The detection range can vary from a few feet to several meters, depending on the specific model of the sensor. Another important specification is the sensor’s sensitivity, which determines how much-infrared radiation is required to trigger the sensor.
The important functions of an Arduino PIR Motion Sensor Module include:
- Detection of motion or movement of objects
- Activation of alarms or lights when motion is detected
- Counting the number of people or objects passing through an area
- Triggering of events or actions based on motion detection
Arduino PIR Motion Sensor Modules have a wide range of applications, including:
- Security Systems: PIR sensors can be used to detect intruders and trigger alarms.
- Automation: PIR sensors can be used to detect the presence of people and trigger automation systems.
- People Counting: PIR sensors can be used to count the number of people passing through an area.
- Lighting Control: PIR sensors can be used to turn lights on and off based on the presence of people.
- Robotics: PIR sensors can be used for navigation and obstacle detection.
To use an Arduino PIR Motion Sensor Module is connected to the Arduino microcontroller using the 3-pin interface, usually VCC, GND, and OUT. The VCC pin is connected to the 5V power supply of Arduino, GND to ground, the OUT pin is connected to a digital pin of the Arduino.
Once the connections are made, the next step is to write the Arduino code to control the sensor. The Arduino code should include the library for the PIR Motion Sensor which will facilitate communication with the sensor.
The basic steps in the code include:
- Include the library and define the pin to which the sensor is connected
- Read the value of the pin connected to the OUT pin of the sensor
- Use an if statement to check if the value is high or low.
- If the value is high, it indicates motion is detected, otherwise, no motion is detected.
- Use the detected motion to trigger events or actions
It is important to note that the PIR sensor can only detect motion that is within its range and field of view. Therefore, it is important to test the sensor and adjust the sensitivity and position as necessary for a specific application.