RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Sensor Module | Doppler Motion Detector
RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Sensor Module | Doppler Motion Detector
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Short Product Description
Short Product Description
Upgrade your smart home, security, and DIY electronics projects with the RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Sensor Module. Utilizing advanced Doppler radar technology, this sensor detects moving objects with superior accuracy compared to traditional infrared (PIR) sensors. Its unique penetrating detection capability allows it to sense motion through plastics, glass, and thin walls, making it ideal for hidden installations. Operating on a wide 4.0V to 28.0V range and featuring a dedicated RCWL-9196 control chip, it offers unmatched reliability and a stable 3.3V output for your microcontrollers.
Key Features
Key Features
- Doppler Radar Technology: Provides highly sensitive, multi-directional motion detection, outperforming standard line-of-sight sensors.
- Penetrating Detection: Easily senses movement through non-metallic obstacles like wood, plastic, and glass for clean, hidden installations.
- Dedicated Control Chip: Powered by the RCWL-9196 processor for fast response times and stable, reliable signal outputs.
- Wide Voltage Input (4-28V): Highly versatile power requirements allow for easy integration into various circuits and battery-powered setups.
- Built-in 3.3V Output: Can supply up to 100mA of drive current, perfect for powering logic levels or small microcontrollers.
- Day/Night Capability: Features a CDS pin for photoresistor integration, allowing the module to automatically disable detection during daylight hours.
Full Product Description
Full Product Description
Next-Generation Motion Detection with Doppler Radar
The RCWL-0516 is not just another motion sensor; it's a massive leap forward for DIY electronics, IoT projects, and smart home automation. By leveraging Doppler radar principles, this microwave induction module detects the movement of objects by transmitting and receiving high-frequency microwave signals. Whether you are building an automated lighting system or a custom anti-theft alarm, this module provides highly sensitive, 360-degree detection that traditional sensors simply cannot match.
Superior to Traditional PIR Sensors
If you have ever been frustrated by PIR (Passive Infrared) sensors failing to trigger or requiring a direct line of sight, the RCWL-0516 is your solution. This microwave sensor has penetrating detection capabilities. It can accurately detect human presence and movement through non-metallic barriers such as wood, thin walls, glass, and plastic enclosures. This means you can easily hide the sensor inside a customized 3D-printed case, behind a ceiling panel, or within a light fixture without sacrificing performance.
Flexible and Powerful Integration
Built around the dedicated RCWL-9196 signal processing chip, this module guarantees consistent performance with a wide operating voltage of 4.0V to 28.0V. It also conveniently outputs a stable 3.3V (up to 100mA), which is perfect for directly powering small external components or logic levels on 3.3V development boards.
Customizable for Your Specific Project
The RCWL-0516 offers adjustable parameters for advanced users. By adding specific external resistors and capacitors to the board (C-TM, R-GN, R-CDS), you can easily customize the repeat trigger time, adjust the detection distance, or integrate a photoresistor (LDR) to ensure the sensor only activates your lighting projects during the night.
Technical Specifications
Technical Specifications
- Model: RCWL-0516
- Technology: Doppler Microwave Radar
- Control Chip: RCWL-9196
- Operating Voltage (VIN): 4.0V – 28.0V DC
- Power Output (3V3): 3.3V DC (Max drive current: 100mA)
- Output Signal (OUT): High (3.3V) on motion detection / Low (0V) when idle
- Dimensions: 3.9cm × 1.8cm
- Adjustability: Trigger time and detection distance adjustable via external components
Delivery Options
Delivery Options
- Local delivery within Hong Kong and in-store pickup.
- Free shipping for orders of HK$400 or above; HK$35 shipping fee for orders below HK$400.
- Shipped by SF Express, usually dispatched the same day for orders confirmed before 6:00 PM (Mon–Sat).
- Estimated delivery time: 1–3 business days after dispatch (Hong Kong).
- In-store pickup details (location and time) will be confirmed by email or phone message.
- Delivery times are estimates and may be affected by weather or unforeseen circumstances.
FAQ Section
FAQ Section
Q: How does the RCWL-0516 differ from a standard PIR sensor?
A: Unlike PIR sensors that detect changes in infrared heat signatures and require a clear line of sight, the RCWL-0516 uses microwave radar. This allows it to detect motion through obstacles like plastic or wood, making it perfect for hidden or enclosed projects.
Q: What is the CDS pin used for?
A: The CDS pin is a trigger control signal. If the voltage drops below 0.7V, the module's output will stay low (disabled). By connecting a photoresistor (LDR) to this pin, you can configure the sensor to only detect motion in low-light environments or at night.
Q: Can I use this directly with a 5V microcontroller board?
A: Yes! The module accepts a wide input voltage (4-28V) via the VIN pin, making it perfectly safe to power with a 5V source. The OUT signal provides a 3.3V high logic level, which is safe for 3.3V boards and generally recognized as a "High" signal by 5V boards.
Target Users / Applications
Target Users / Applications
- Target Users: STEM educators, IoT developers, DIY electronics enthusiasts, home automation hobbyists, and engineers.
- Applications: Smart home lighting automation, hidden anti-theft alarms, automated door systems, interactive art installations, and presence detection.
