PIR Motion Sensor
Passive infrared motion detector for security and occupancy projects.
AI Ready Overview
Quick Summary
PIR Sensor is a motion sensor commonly used in FYP and embedded projects. It is best for motion alarms and room occupancy, with wiring and testing planned around Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi.
Difficulty
Beginner
Time Required
1-3 days for basic wiring and sample code; 1 week if used inside a complete FYP prototype
Cost
RM4-RM12 module range in Malaysia; full project cost depends on scope.
Components
PIR Sensor, Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi
Overview
What is PIR Sensor?
PIR sensors detect motion from warm bodies and are common in alarm, lighting and occupancy monitoring FYP projects.
Engineering Reference
Quick Specs
| Operating Voltage | 5V / 3.3V module variants |
|---|---|
| Interface | Digital GPIO |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Typical Malaysia Price | RM4-RM12 |
| Best For | Motion alarms, Room occupancy |
Real Usage Notes
Suitable / Not Suitable
Suitable for
- ✓ Motion alarms
- ✓ Room occupancy
- ✓ Automatic lighting
Not suitable for
- ✕ Counting exact people
- ✕ Detecting stationary humans
- ✕ Outdoor rain exposure without enclosure
Build Planning
Difficulty
PIR Sensor is rated Beginner. Plan around 1-3 days for basic wiring and sample code; 1 week if used inside a complete fyp prototypedepending on wiring, libraries, calibration, dashboard/app integration and testing evidence.
Build Planning
Time Required
1-3 days for basic wiring and sample code; 1 week if used inside a complete FYP prototype
Malaysia Price Guidance
Cost
Typical module price range: RM4-RM12. This is component guidance only; a complete FYP cost depends on controller, sensors, casing, display, app/dashboard, documentation and timeline.
Connections
Pinout
VCC
Power input. Check whether the module expects 5V or 3.3V module variants before wiring.
GND
Common ground with the controller and external supply.
Digital GPIO
Main Digital GPIO connection used by the module.
IO
Additional signal pins depend on the exact module variant.
Platform Notes
Wiring Guides
PIR Sensor with Arduino / ESP32
Connect power, ground and the Digital GPIO signal lines. Use level shifting when a 5V module connects to a 3.3V controller.
| PIR Sensor VCC | 5V or module-rated supply |
|---|---|
| PIR Sensor GND | Controller GND |
| Signal pins | Digital GPIO |
Fix Common Problems
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
Common Mistakes
FYP Ideas Using PIR Sensor
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Alternative Components
Student Questions
FAQ
Is PIR Sensor good for FYP projects?
Yes, PIR Sensor is suitable for FYP work when the project matches its limits: Motion alarms and Room occupancy.
What is the most common PIR Sensor mistake?
Expecting it to detect stationary people