RCWL-0516 Doppler Radar Sensor Interface with Arduino

In this tutorial we interface RCWL-0516 Human body induction switch module Intelligent sensor (Radar Motion sensor) with Arduino.

This mini doppler radar motion sensor module is equipped with supporting DC 4-28V wide voltage. It will automatically continuously output the high level TTL signal when there is motion. 360 degree no blind angle detection and maximum 7m sensing distance. It is perfect for DIY microwave motion sensor light switch, human sensor toys, smart security devices, etc.Microwave Motion Sensor

Features:

  • Operating Voltage: 4-28V
  • Operating Current: 2.8mA (typical); 3mA (max)
  • Detection Distance: 5-9m
  • Transmitting Power: 20mW (typical); 30mW (max)
  • Output Voltage: 3.2-3.4V
  • Output Voltage Driving Capacity: 100mA
  • Trigger Way: repeat trigger
  • Output Control Low Level: 0V
  • Output Control High Level: 3.3V
  • Operating Temperature: -20~80 celsius
  • Storage Temperature: -40~100 celsius
  • Board Size: 35.9 X 17.3mm/1.41 X 0.68inch

Pin Description:

Microwave Motion Sensor Pinout

Pin Function
3V3 3.3V regulated output. Max 100mA (?)
GND Ground
OUT Trigger: high (3.3V) if motion detected. 0V normally.
VIN 4 – 28V supply voltage
CDS LDR 10-20k RL, U_LDR > 0.7V = On (Enable control chip)

Arduino Interface with RCWL-0516

 

Arduino Code for RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Motion Sensor

From the data sheet and pinout of the RCWL-0516, we know that this sensor gives high output when motion is detected. CDS pin can be used to enable the motion detection , in this example we keep that pin high, i.e. always on.

/*
 * Arduino Microwave Radar Motion Sensor Interface
 * https://Circuits4you.com
 * Oct 2018
 */

int Sensor = 2;   //Input Pin
int LED = 13;     // Led pin for Indication

int flg = 0;  //Change detection flag
void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  pinMode (Sensor, INPUT);  //Define Pin as input
  pinMode (LED, OUTPUT);    //Led as OUTPUT
  Serial.println("Waiting for motion");
}

void loop() {
     int val = digitalRead(Sensor); //Read Pin as input
     
     if((val > 0) && (flg==0))
     {
        digitalWrite(LED, HIGH);
        Serial.println("Motion Detected");
        flg = 1;
     }

     if(val == 0)
     {
        digitalWrite(LED, LOW);
        flg = 0;
     }  
     delay(100);
}

 

Testing

Open serial monitor at baud rate of 9600, And make some motion in front of sensor. Observe LED 13 and Serial monitor.

 

 

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