Microwave PIRs

JOHNPT

Has anybody any experience using microwave PIRs or the microwave switch which can be used instead of light switch. Problem is - a long corridor with a 45 degree turn so trying to find something that may be suitable - microwave sounds good - has anybody used them or how reliable are they longterm. Thanks

KoolKid

Why not 2 PiRs ,looking each way ,at the 45 degree angle?

JOHNPT

Thats possible but one microwave would be perfect if they work. Also those microwave light switches would be ideal if they worked but haven't used them and dont know of any good quality brand. Have anybody used them -seemingly they can detect around corners.

KoolKid

So how long is the corridor & how long is the bend?
Are you planning to locate MW at the bend or at one end?

JOHNPT

Not sure exact distances - its an apt block and was badly designed years ago - at beginning corridor is light switch then approx 5 metres to 45/90 degree bend then another 7 metres to Apt doors.

KoolKid

Theres a good chance that might work. I'd string a cable up to it first before fixing.

JOHNPT

Which might work - PIRs or microwave? can you recommend a good brand?

KoolKid

For the PiR I would be looking at mounting either 1 or 2 on the angle . Try on a lenght of cable to find the best location. Again the microwave switch may need a little trial & error.
Try here for some more detail
http://www.switch.ie/

maxamillius

used them on a job in an office before,absolutely terrible,nothing but trouble with them,would not reccomend them at all!far to sensitive and had major issues with them not switching off!

JOHNPT

Thanks for feedback Maxamillus - there is very little info out there about them - if they worked properly they would be ideal for this job. Has anyone else used them or any info on them

LeBash

JOHNPT wrote: »

Thanks for feedback Maxamillus - there is very little info out there about them - if they worked properly they would be ideal for this job. Has anyone else used them or any info on them

The microwaves will actually pick up through wall, floors etc. Go with IR. We do units that cover from 14 - 30 meters and there are many others that cover similar areas.

Energysavers.ie

See the ceiling mounted Mws3a-prm on www.cpelectronics.co.uk A long range microwave that does 30 mts x 6 mts wide. ( that's coverage would normally be 4 x pirs at 7 mts, with one pint of wiring)
The microwaves mould themselves to an area but don't see around corners. So one at either end of the corridor would suffice. You can use a cheap ebdspir wired in parallel if there are any alcoves or hidden spots.
Sensitivity can be programmed from the ground with a programmer so too can time/ lux hold off( if there is natural light) and distance.
The wall versions are ideal if your switch plate is positioned correctly ( Ie looking down the corridor) but they do require a neutral.
We have used loads on apartments/ offices/ warehouses & schools.