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Parallax 555-28027 - User Manual

Parallax 555-28027
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Copyright © Parallax Inc. Page 1 of 6
Parallax PIR Sensor KickStart (#555-28027)
What It Can Do
• Detects motion of humans or animals from as far away as 30 feet
• Silent operation for alarms, motion activated nightlights, holiday props
• Automatically resets after period of inactivity
Passive infrared (PIR) sensors detect motion by comparing the amount of infrared radiation that
reaches a pair of detectors. When the two detectors “see” different values, the sensor indicates it
as movement of an object, such as a person or an animal. PIR sensors are often used in driveway
security systems, which turn on a light (but only at night) when someone approaches the house.
The Parallax PIR Motion Sensor has a simple on/off output: when on, the sensor is detecting
movement. When movement stops the output turns off (after a short delay). The output of the
sensor can be directly connected to a microcontroller, and operates much like a switch. You can
use the on/off condition to directly read the current status of the PIR sensor.
A selectable jumper on the sensor lets you set working distance:
• L (for Long) position, the effective sensor distance is up to 30 feet. This increases the sensitivity
of the sensor, which may also cause more false triggers.
• S (for Short) position, the sensor distance is up to 15 feet.

Table of Contents

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Summary

PIR Sensor Capabilities

Motion Detection Range

Explains the sensor's ability to detect humans/animals up to 30 feet away.

Silent Operation Features

Adjustable Working Distance

Details the 'L' (Long) and 'S' (Short) jumper settings for sensor distance up to 30 ft or 15 ft.

Parts and Setup

Operating Instructions

Advises allowing the sensor 20-60 seconds to warm up for stable infrared detector readings.

Parts List

Lists the PIR Motion Sensor, compatible microcontrollers (BASIC Stamp, Propeller, Arduino), and hookup wire.

Basic Wiring and Programming

Sensor Wiring Overview

Illustrates basic wiring connections for the PIR sensor with Vcc, Out, and Gnd pins.

BASIC Stamp Wiring Example

Shows wiring connections for the PIR sensor using a BASIC Stamp HomeWork Board.

Platform-Specific Examples

BASIC Stamp Code

Propeller BOE Wiring

Propeller QuickStart Wiring

Propeller Code

Arduino Uno Wiring

Arduino Uno Code

Summary

PIR Sensor Capabilities

Motion Detection Range

Explains the sensor's ability to detect humans/animals up to 30 feet away.

Silent Operation Features

Adjustable Working Distance

Details the 'L' (Long) and 'S' (Short) jumper settings for sensor distance up to 30 ft or 15 ft.

Parts and Setup

Operating Instructions

Advises allowing the sensor 20-60 seconds to warm up for stable infrared detector readings.

Parts List

Lists the PIR Motion Sensor, compatible microcontrollers (BASIC Stamp, Propeller, Arduino), and hookup wire.

Basic Wiring and Programming

Sensor Wiring Overview

Illustrates basic wiring connections for the PIR sensor with Vcc, Out, and Gnd pins.

BASIC Stamp Wiring Example

Shows wiring connections for the PIR sensor using a BASIC Stamp HomeWork Board.

Platform-Specific Examples

BASIC Stamp Code

Propeller BOE Wiring

Propeller QuickStart Wiring

Propeller Code

Arduino Uno Wiring

Arduino Uno Code

Overview

  1. Function Description
  2. Important Technical Specifications
  3. Usage Features
  4. Maintenance Features
  5. Related Products

The Parallax PIR Sensor KickStart (#555-28027) is a passive infrared (PIR) motion sensor designed to detect the movement of humans or animals. It offers a simple on/off output, making it easy to integrate with microcontrollers for various applications such as alarms, motion-activated nightlights, and holiday props.

Function Description:

PIR sensors operate by detecting changes in infrared radiation. The Parallax PIR Sensor utilizes a pair of detectors to compare the amount of infrared radiation received. When an object, such as a person or an animal, moves within its detection range, it causes a difference in the infrared values seen by the two detectors, triggering the sensor. The sensor's output is a single bit: high when triggered (motion detected) and low when no motion is detected. Once motion stops, the sensor resets itself after a short delay, typically around 10 seconds. This automatic reset feature makes it suitable for applications requiring continuous monitoring without manual intervention.

Important Technical Specifications:

  • Detection Range: The sensor can detect motion from as far away as 30 feet.
  • Power Requirements: It operates on a DC voltage range of 3 to 6 VDC.
    • At 3V, the current consumption is 12 mA.
    • At 5V, the current consumption is 23 mA.
  • Output Type: Single bit output (high for triggered, low for no trigger).
  • Dimensions: The sensor measures 1.41 x 1.0 x 0.8 inches (35.8 x 25.4 x 20.3 mm).
  • Operating Temperature: Not explicitly stated, but generally PIR sensors operate within typical indoor temperature ranges.
  • Warm-up Time: For proper operation, the sensor requires a warm-up period of 20 to 60 seconds after power is first applied. During this time, the infrared detectors stabilize, and the sensor output is not reliable until this period is complete.

Usage Features:

  • Silent Operation: The sensor operates silently, making it ideal for applications where noise is a concern, such as security systems or discreet monitoring.
  • Selectable Detection Distance: A jumper on the sensor allows users to select the working distance:
    • "L" (Long) Position: Provides an effective sensor distance of up to 30 feet. This setting increases sensitivity, which may also lead to more false triggers in some environments.
    • "S" (Short) Position: Limits the sensor distance to up to 15 feet, potentially reducing false triggers in smaller areas.
  • Direct Microcontroller Connection: The on/off output of the sensor can be directly connected to a microcontroller, simplifying integration into various projects.
  • Visual Trigger Indicator: A red LED located inside the dome of the sensor glows when motion is detected (triggered), providing immediate visual feedback of its status.
  • Compatibility: This KickStart guide specifically targets Rev B of the PIR Motion Sensor. Earlier versions may operate differently, and users are advised to check the Parallax website for information on those versions.
  • Example Programs (KickStarts): The manual provides example programs for popular microcontroller platforms, including:
    • BASIC Stamp HomeWork Board
    • Propeller BOE (Board of Education)
    • Propeller QuickStart
    • Arduino Uno These programs demonstrate how to read the sensor's state and display it in a terminal/debug window, often including a warm-up period and continuous monitoring.

Maintenance Features:

  • No Specific Maintenance: The manual does not detail specific maintenance procedures for the sensor itself. As an electronic component, it is generally considered maintenance-free beyond proper handling and installation.
  • Environmental Considerations: While not explicitly stated as maintenance, ensuring the sensor is placed in an appropriate environment (e.g., away from direct heat sources, strong air currents, or objects that might cause false triggers) can be considered a form of preventative "maintenance" for optimal performance.
  • Troubleshooting: The visual LED indicator helps in troubleshooting by confirming if the sensor is detecting motion. If the sensor is not responding as expected, checking the jumper setting for distance and ensuring the warm-up period has elapsed are initial troubleshooting steps.

Parallax offers several other motion detection solutions:

  • PIR Mini Sensor (#28033): Offers similar functionality to the Rev B PIR Sensor but in a smaller form factor.
  • Wide Angle PIR Sensor (#28032): Provides a broader 180° field of view for wider area coverage.
  • X-Band Motion Detector (#32213): Utilizes microwave radio signals for motion detection, capable of detecting motion through windows and most walls. This type of sensor is generally less susceptible to false triggers compared to passive infrared modules.

Parallax 555-28027 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandParallax
Model555-28027
CategoryAccessories
LanguageEnglish

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