RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Motion Sensor Module
High-Sensitivity Human Body Detection Module for Arduino
The RCWL-0516 is a microwave radar sensor module using Doppler radar technology to detect human movement through walls and other obstacles. It provides a digital output for simple integration with Arduino and other microcontrollers.
Detects Movement Through NonMetallic Surfaces Sees through walls, wood, plastic, and glass
Wide 3.3V to 5V Operation - Compatible with 3.3V and 5V logic systems
Operating voltage: 4.5V to 5V for most modules, with some 3.3V variants available .
Detection range: 3 to 7 meters (adjustable via onboard potentiometer) .
Unlike PIR sensors, this module requires no warm-up time and is not affected by heat sources .
Key Features
+Microwave Doppler Technology - Detects movement by sensing frequency changes in reflected radar waves .
+PIR Replacement - Better sensitivity and coverage angle compared to standard PIR sensors .
+Adjustable Sensitivity - Onboard potentiometer for setting detection range .
+Onboard LEDs - Power and trigger indicators provide immediate feedback .
= Applications =
- Smart lighting and automatic switches .
- Security systems and motion-activated alarms .
- Intelligent home automation .
- Long-distance human detection projects (such as in hallways) .
High Sensitivity - Detects motion through many materials and in complete darkness .
Versatile and Reliable - A great alternative to PIR sensors.
√ Works with Arduino, ESP32, and other 3.3V/5V logic boards .
√ Simple 3-pin interface: VCC, GND, OUT .
√ Repeatable trigger mode keeps output active while motion persists .