Wired PIR motion sensors connect to the security panel with cabling and typically receive power from the system, while wireless PIR motion sensors communicate through a supported wireless protocol and commonly use batteries, reducing cable runs. For system integration, select a sensor that matches the panel or receiver, then account for wiring requirements with wired devices or enrollment, signal strength, and battery maintenance with wireless devices.

Choose wall-mounted PIR motion sensors for typical rooms and residential spaces where adjustable wall or corner placement provides coverage, and choose ceiling-mounted sensors when you need discreet, 360-degree detection in rooms, lobbies, classrooms, or other open areas. Choose outdoor PIR motion sensors for exterior zones, such as yards or property perimeters, where the sensor must account for weather, sunlight, changing light levels, animals, and other outdoor conditions.

Pet immunity helps a PIR motion sensor distinguish people from pets within its rated weight range, reducing alerts caused by normal animal movement. Dual-technology detection combines PIR and microwave sensing and sends an alarm when both technologies identify motion, which can help filter disturbances in challenging installations.

When specifying PIR motion sensors, evaluate the protected area’s size and layout, the required detection range and field of view, and whether wall, corner, or ceiling mounting provides the right coverage. Also consider indoor or outdoor conditions, temperature changes, sunlight, rain, drafts, insects, pets, and tampering, then select features such as pet immunity, sealed optics, or dual-technology detection when the installation calls for them.