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Motion Detectors

Motion detectors are sensors that detect movement, using passive infrared (PIR) or microwave technology, to switch or dim lighting automatically when an area is occupied. We stock Kosnic Falco interior PIRs, Mallar and plug-in Hontza, Lulu and Sova microwave sensors, Kavka and Toco exterior PIRs, fire-rated Mauna sensors and Zhaga-socket Condor sensors, plus Loca 360° PIRs and Zinc Dion IP65 sensors with manual override.

Daylight sensors and remote controls are available too. Account customers buy at trade rates, with next working day delivery to NI and ROI on stock ordered by 5pm Monday to Friday.

Wall Mounted
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ZN-33579-WHT In-Stock

Zinc Dion IP65 Adjustable Motion Sensor with Manual Override White

£18.00 inc. VAT

ZN-33579-BLK In-Stock

Zinc Dion IP65 Adjustable Motion Sensor with Manual Override Black

£18.00 inc. VAT

How to choose the right motion sensor

A well-chosen sensor saves energy and makes buildings more convenient, while a poor choice means lights that switch off on people or switch on for passing traffic. Start with the location and the type of detection.

Types of sensor

PIR sensors detect body heat moving across their zones. They suit corridors, toilets, stores and outdoor approaches, and are less prone to false triggering through walls.
Microwave sensors detect motion through reflected signals and pick up smaller movements, making them good for offices, stairwells and enclosed fittings; they can see through thin materials.
Daylight sensors hold lights off or dim them when there is enough natural light, and can be combined with presence detection.
Integrated and Zhaga sensors fit directly onto compatible luminaires.

Key specifications

Check the detection range and pattern against the space, the mounting style (ceiling recessed, surface, wall or plug-in), and the IP rating for external or damp areas. Look at the switching capacity and LED load rating, since LED drivers can draw high inrush current. Dimming sensors with 1-10V or phase-cut outputs allow corridor functions such as dimming to a low level rather than switching off. Adjustable time delay and lux settings, often set with a remote, let you fine-tune behaviour after installation.

Installation tips

Mount PIRs so people walk across the detection zones rather than straight towards the sensor, and keep them away from heaters and vents that can cause false triggers. Fire-rated versions are available where a sensor is recessed into a fire-rated ceiling. Follow the manufacturer's wiring diagram and current wiring regulations. Sensors pair well with our floodlights, LED battens and dimmable drivers and controls.

Meteor Electrical is a family-run wholesaler stocking more than 100 trade brands. Free delivery applies over £30 / €35 ex VAT, and our team on 028 8675 1515 can help you choose, Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm.

FAQ's Ask Your Own Question

What is the difference between a PIR and a microwave sensor?: A PIR sensor detects changes in infrared heat as people move across its field of view, while a microwave sensor emits a low-power signal and detects movement from the reflections. Microwave sensors are more sensitive to small movements and can detect through thin materials, but may trigger from movement beyond the room. PIRs are more predictable in corridors, toilets and outdoor approaches.
Where is the best place to mount a ceiling PIR sensor?: Mount it centrally in the area to be covered, at the height recommended by the manufacturer, so people walk across its detection zones rather than directly towards it. Avoid positions near heaters, air vents, windows in direct sunlight and moving machinery, which can cause false triggering. In long corridors, several sensors with overlapping coverage often work better than one.
What does the lux setting on a motion sensor do?: The lux setting is a light-level threshold. The sensor only switches the lights on when movement is detected and the ambient light is below the level you set, so lights stay off in rooms that already have enough daylight. Setting it correctly saves energy without leaving people in the dark. Many Kosnic sensors allow lux, sensitivity and time delay to be adjusted by remote control.
Will a motion sensor work with LED lighting?: Yes, provided the sensor is rated for the LED load. LED drivers can draw a high inrush current at switch-on, so check the sensor's maximum LED load or number of fittings, not just its incandescent rating. Some LED circuits fall below a sensor's minimum load, causing flicker or ghosting. Check the manufacturer's data, and use a contactor for large lighting loads.
What is a manual override on a motion sensor?: A manual override lets you bypass automatic detection and keep the lights on, usually by switching the supply off and on quickly at the wall switch. It is useful when working outside for a while or when guests are arriving. Sensors such as the Zinc Dion include this feature. Switching the supply off and on again normally returns the sensor to automatic mode.
What is a dimming motion sensor?: A dimming motion sensor controls a dimmable driver through an output such as 1-10V or phase-cut, rather than simply switching lights on and off. It can bring lights to full output when someone is present and dim them to a low background level when the area is empty, which suits corridors, stairwells and car parks. The driver must support the same dimming method.