10x RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Motion Sensor Module for Arduino
10x RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Motion Sensor Module for Arduino
RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Motion Sensor Module — 10-Pack
Upgrade your Arduino, DIY electronics, or automation projects with the RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Motion Sensor Module. This 10-piece pack delivers professional-grade Doppler radar motion detection in an ultra-compact form factor, making it ideal for smart lighting, security systems, robotics, and any application that requires reliable movement detection.
Key Features
- Advanced Doppler Radar Technology: Uses microwave radar to detect motion with high sensitivity and accuracy — no line-of-sight required. Can detect movement even through thin obstacles, unlike traditional PIR infrared sensors.
- Long Detection Range: Senses movement up to 5–8 meters away, making it suitable for wide-area monitoring in corridors, rooms, and outdoor enclosures.
- Wide Input Voltage Range: Operates on 4V to 28V input, offering broad compatibility with a variety of power supplies and microcontroller platforms including Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP8266/ESP32.
- 3.3V Output Power: Provides a stable 3.3V power output and a digital HIGH/LOW control signal (3.3V / 0V) capable of driving up to 100mA — easy to interface with logic-level circuits.
- Repeat Trigger Mode: Continuously re-triggers while motion is detected, ensuring uninterrupted activation for smart automation routines.
- Adjustable Delay & Distance: Fine-tune the sensing delay time and detection distance to match your specific project requirements for optimal performance and energy efficiency.
- Compact & Easy to Integrate: Measures just 36 × 17 × 4 mm (1.42 × 0.67 × 0.16 in) with clearly labeled pins for fast, straightforward wiring.
Specifications
| Working Voltage | 4V – 28V |
| Working Current | 3 mA |
| Detection Distance | 5 – 8 Meters |
| Output Voltage | 3.2V – 3.4V |
| Output Drive Capacity | 100 mA |
| Trigger Mode | Repeat Trigger |
| Output High Level | 3.3V |
| Output Low Level | 0V |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 80°C |
| Dimensions | 36 × 17 × 4 mm / 1.42 × 0.67 × 0.16 in |
| Signal Processing Chip | RCWL-9196 |
| Condition | New |
Pin Definitions
- 3V3 — 3.3V power output
- GND — Ground
- OUT — Control output (HIGH when motion detected)
- VIN — Input voltage (4–28V)
- CDS — Enable control pin (below 0.7V holds OUT LOW)
Common Applications
- Automatic / motion-activated lighting systems
- Home and building security alarm systems
- Arduino & Raspberry Pi DIY projects
- Smart home automation and occupancy sensing
- Robotics and obstacle-detection systems
- Energy-saving devices that activate on presence
Package Contents
- 10 × RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Motion Sensor Module
Made in Mainland China.
Note: Actual color may vary slightly from images due to monitor and lighting differences. Please allow ±1–2 cm measurement deviation due to manual measurement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the RCWL-0516 microwave radar motion sensor module used for?
A: The RCWL-0516 is a Doppler microwave radar sensor module designed to detect motion in DIY electronics projects. It is commonly used in Arduino and Raspberry Pi projects for motion-activated lighting, security alarms, smart home automation, robotics, and occupancy detection systems. Its wide input voltage range (4–28V) makes it versatile for many builds.
Q: How does the RCWL-0516 differ from a standard PIR (infrared) sensor?
A: Unlike PIR sensors, which require a direct line of sight and can be blocked by physical barriers, the RCWL-0516 uses microwave Doppler radar technology, allowing it to detect motion through thin non-metallic obstacles such as plastic or wood. It also has a longer detection range of up to 8 meters and operates over a much wider supply voltage range (4–28V).
Q: Is this module compatible with Arduino and other microcontrollers?
A: Yes! The RCWL-0516 outputs a 3.3V digital HIGH signal when motion is detected, making it directly compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP8266, ESP32, and most other 3.3V or 5V logic microcontroller platforms. Simply connect VIN, GND, and read the OUT pin to get started.
Q: Can I adjust the detection distance and trigger delay on this module?
A: Yes. The RCWL-0516 features adjustable time delay and detection distance settings. You can modify these parameters by adding resistors or capacitors to the designated pads on the board, allowing you to customize sensitivity and hold time to fit your specific project needs.
Production & Packaging Notice
To maintain high stock availability and fast shipping times, our items are sourced from multiple verified manufacturing facilities. While the core quality, materials, and product specifications remain identical, you may notice slight variations in the packaging design, manufacturing origin, or the wording of the printed instructions.