Motion detector Microwave Doppler radar RCWL-0516

Product detailed description

The RCWL-0516 microwave radar motion detector detects the movement of people and objects based on the Doppler effect, even through plastic covers, glass, or thin non-metallic walls. Unlike classic PIR sensors, it does not respond to heat but to the reflection of a microwave signal at a frequency of approx. 3.2 GHz, meaning it works in the dark, in heat, and in completely hidden locations inside a box. Upon detecting motion, the OUT output switches to 3.3 V, which you can connect directly to an Arduino, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi, or use via a transistor or relay to switch lighting. The module is suitable for automatic lighting, security, visitor counting, or waking devices from sleep mode.

Specifications:

• Chip: RCWL-9196
• Principle: microwave Doppler radar, operating frequency approx. 3.18 GHz
• Power supply (VIN): 4–28 V DC (the module does not work reliably from 3.3 V – use min. 4 V, typically 5 V)
• Quiescent current: approx. 3 mA
• Transmit power: typ. 20 mW, max. 30 mW
• Detection:
  • Range: 5–7 m (human motion, in open space)
  • Angle: 360° without blind spots, most sensitive on the component side
• Output (OUT): 3.3 V upon detection / 0 V at idle, TTL level
• Output switch time: default approx. 2 s, extends with each subsequent movement (retriggerable), can be extended via capacitor C-TM
• Pins: 5
  • 3V3: 3.3 V internal regulator output (max. 100 mA)
  • GND: ground
  • OUT: digital detection output
  • VIN: power input 4–28 V
  • CDS: detection blocking – when pulled to low level (e.g. by a photoresistor), the sensor is inactive
• Solder pads for adjustment:
  • C-TM: capacitor for extending the switch time
  • R-GN: resistor for reducing range (e.g. 1 MΩ ≈ 5 m)
  • R-CDS: resistor for photoresistor for "darkness only" function
• Operating temperature: –20 °C to +80 °C
• Dimensions:
  • Board: approx. 35.9 × 17.3 mm

Tips for use:

• Leave at least 1 cm of free space behind the module and do not place it in a metal box or near large metal surfaces – metal shields and reflects the signal, which significantly reduces range or causes false detections.
• Actual range depends on the size and speed of the moving object, module orientation, and surroundings; it reacts best to movement towards or away from the sensor.
• The radar "sees" through non-metallic walls, so it can detect movement in the next room – reduce sensitivity using the R-GN resistor as needed.
• For stable operation, use a high-quality power supply with low ripple; interference from switching power supplies or a Wi-Fi module in close proximity can cause false triggering.

Package contents:

• 1× RCWL-0516 microwave radar motion detector

Note:

• This product is not a standalone functional unit and may require professional installation.
• Product images are for illustrative purposes only and may sometimes differ from the actual appearance of the item. However, this does not change their basic properties.