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Horticutral Lighting
What is a PIR sensor
PIR sensor is a passive infrared sensor (PIR sensor) is an electronic sensor that measures infrared (IR) light radiating from objects in its field of view.
All objects with a temperature above absolute zero emit heat energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation.
Features for PIR sensor
PIR sensor is activated by infrared heat and light, but it doesn’t function well in temperatures >35°C.
Furthermore, it can not penetrate plastic or glass, so the detector has to be installed externally to a light fitting, which will reduce the shorter life span than a microwave sensor.
What is a microwave sensor?
Microwave sensors are electronic sensors that can detect the movement of objects through changes in reflected waves.
Features for microwave sensors
It is activated by motion, speed, and size, not heat and light from the working temperature. Microwave sensors can safely penetrate non-metallic objects such as glass and plastic, even if it is completely enclosed within the lighting fixture.
Meanwhile, it stably performs, which is suitable for any climate.
Difference between PIR sensors and microwave sensors
|
Feature |
PIR Sensor |
Microwave Sensor |
|
Activation |
Activated by infrared heat and light |
Activated by motion, speed, and size |
|
Detection Principle |
Measures infrared light radiating from objects |
Detects movement of objects through changes in reflected waves |
|
Temperature Range |
Effective up to 35°C, not suitable for higher temperatures |
Works across various temperatures, suitable for any climate |
|
Penetration |
Cannot penetrate plastic or glass, must be external |
Can penetrate non-metallic objects such as glass and plastic, even when enclosed |
|
Installation |
External installation to lighting fixture |
Can be installed within the lighting fixture |
|
Lifespan |
Shorter lifespan due to external installation |
Longer lifespan due to internal installation |
Microwave sensor is more suitable for outdoor lighting in the Middle East Area
By contrast between the PIR sensor and the microwave sensor above, we can see that the microwave sensor is more suitable for the Middle East Area. In this area, the summer night temperature for outdoor applications is almost higher than 37°C， in which PIR sensors can’t function.
It is the same for hot areas like Southeast Asia, Africa, and other areas, microwave sensor for outdoor applications is promoted.
AGC Lighting is experienced in outdoor lighting and the market for the Middle East Area. Here sharing some production pictures for the microwave sensor solution and a case image for the PIR sensor solution.
For microwave sensor solution
For PIR sensor solution
Please feel free to contact us if you have lighting problems.
