Occupancy infrared sensors detect movement and can turn lights on automatically, then turn them off when the space is vacant. Vacancy infrared sensors detect when people leave and turn lights off automatically, while users typically turn the lights on manually, which can help reduce unnecessary activation.

Choose based on the room layout and the area you need to monitor: ceiling-mount infrared sensors provide 360-degree coverage, wall-mount sensors provide broad coverage from a wall, hall-mount sensors suit longer spaces, and corner-mount sensors cover areas from a room corner. Also select occupancy sensing for automatic light activation, or vacancy sensing when users should turn lights on manually, and confirm the sensor works with the intended dimming or switching devices.

When connecting wireless passive infrared (PIR) sensors to lighting controls, confirm communication with compatible dimming or switching devices and select occupancy or vacancy operation based on whether lights should turn on automatically or require manual activation. Plan mounting and coverage around the room layout, and keep local controls within 60 feet in line of sight or 30 feet through walls while checking the receiving device’s limits before adding sensors.

Plan infrared sensor coverage around the room’s layout and mounting location: use ceiling-mounted sensors for 360-degree coverage in open areas, wall-mounted sensors for 180-degree coverage, corner-mounted sensors for 90-degree coverage, and hall-mounted sensors for corridors. Position sensors with a clear line of sight to areas where people move, account for walls, furniture, and doorways, and add multiple sensors when one coverage area does not reach the full space.