Indoor wireless security motion detectors typically cover rooms from a wall or corner, while outdoor models use detection technologies designed to help handle rain, sunlight, temperature changes, and small animals. Ceiling-mount detectors provide broad 360-degree coverage for open spaces, while curtain-style detectors create a narrower zone along doors, windows, or glass walls.

Compare passive infrared (PIR) detection for general motion sensing, dual PIR and microwave technology for installations where reducing false alarms matters, and pet-immunity features when animals are present. Match the coverage pattern to the space, such as wide-angle for rooms, 360-degree for ceiling-mounted areas, curtain-style for doors and windows, or outdoor-rated coverage for exterior zones.

Choose detectors with pet-immunity features matched to the animals on-site, and look for dual-technology sensing that combines passive infrared (PIR) and microwave detection to help filter non-human movement. For outdoor areas, consider models with processing designed for rain, sunlight, changing light levels, swaying trees, and small animals, then use adjustable sensitivity or coverage settings to match the installation.

Choose a mounting location that matches the detector’s coverage pattern, such as a corner for broad indoor coverage, a ceiling for 360-degree detection, or near doors, windows, and glass walls for curtain coverage, while accounting for pets, sunlight, weather, and other sources of false alarms. Check signal strength or link-quality indicators before securing the device, select a location with accessible battery service, and use front, back, or other available tamper protection to help alert the system if someone removes or opens the detector.