OpenPIR Hookup Guide

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Contributors: jimblom, SFUptownMaker
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Introduction

Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors detect motion in a local area and are the sensor of choice in security systems, home automation and proximity-sensing applications.

SparkFun OpenPIR

SEN-13968
6 Retired

The SparkFun OpenPIR is a highly customizable PIR sensor based around the NCS36000 PIR controller. The OpenPIR allows you to set the sensitivity, trigger time and pulse mode of the motion sensor, so you can tailor-fit it to your application.

Required Materials

To follow along with this hookup guide, a handful of components are suggested in addition to the OpenPIR. A microcontroller development board, like an Arduino, RedBoard, Photon or Teensy is recommended. The development board can be used to both power the OpenPIR and act on its motion triggers.

Arduino Uno - R3

Arduino Uno - R3

DEV-11021
$27.60
138
SparkFun RedBoard - Programmed with Arduino

SparkFun RedBoard - Programmed with Arduino

DEV-13975
$21.50
50

Teensy 3.2

DEV-13736
68 Retired

Particle Photon (Headers)

WRL-13774
32 Retired

You'll also need something to electrically connect the OpenPIR's power and signal pins to that microcontroller. The OpenPIR includes both a 0.1" header and a 4-pin JST connector footprint, so you can use male headers or a 4-pin JST cable assembly to interface with the sensor.

Jumper Wires Premium 6" M/M Pack of 100

Jumper Wires Premium 6" M/M Pack of 100

PRT-10897
$26.95
6
Break Away Headers - Straight

Break Away Headers - Straight

PRT-00116
$1.75
20
Jumper Wires Premium 6" M/F Pack of 100

Jumper Wires Premium 6" M/F Pack of 100

PRT-09139
$26.95
10
JST Jumper 4 Wire Assembly

JST Jumper 4 Wire Assembly

PRT-09916
$1.60
2

Tools

Finally, you'll need soldering tools to electrically connect the connector of your choice to the OpenPIR. A simple soldering iron and solder should be all you need.

You may also need a small Phillips-head screwdriver to adjust the pair of trimpots on the back of the OpenPIR. Our pocket screwdriver includes a small enough bit, as does the larger screwdriver and bit set.

Solder Lead Free - 15-gram Tube

Solder Lead Free - 15-gram Tube

TOL-09163
$3.95
4
Tool Kit - Screwdriver and Bit Set

Tool Kit - Screwdriver and Bit Set

TOL-10865
$10.95
8
Pocket Screwdriver Set

Pocket Screwdriver Set

TOL-12891
$4.50
5
Soldering Iron - 30W (US, 110V)

Soldering Iron - 30W (US, 110V)

TOL-09507
$10.95
7

Suggested Reading

If you aren’t familiar with the following concepts, we recommend checking out these tutorials before continuing.

Analog to Digital Conversion

The world is analog. Use analog to digital conversion to help digital devices interpret the world.

Logic Levels

Learn the difference between 3.3V and 5V devices and logic levels.

Analog vs. Digital

This tutorial covers the concept of analog and digital signals, as they relate to electronics.

PIR Motion Sensor Hookup Guide

An overview of passive infrared (PIR) motion detecting sensors, and how to hook them up to an Arduino.