How do you connect a motion sensor?

​A motion sensor, also called a motion detector, is used to detect movement. This is often used to switch on lighting and burglary detection. You can use different brands and types of motion sensors, such as for indoors (often built-in), or for outdoors. Most motion sensors use a sensor that works on the basis of infrared technology. These motion detectors are called PIR (passive infrared). When the infrared sensor detects a difference in temperature, this is noticed as movement.

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Supplies

Before you start the work, you of course make sure that everything is voltage-free by switching the circuit breaker. As with all jobs, you can only perform the work on the motion sensor with the right tools. For this job you need: bent needle nose pliers (also called telephone pliers), (side) cutting pliers, voltage detector, screwdriver, stripping pliers, screws and (if applicable) plugs.

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Motion sensor switching element

When connecting a motion sensor, a relay base may be required. The relay base is the built-in part of the switching element.
Note: Not every motion sensor needs a relay base to function. This switching element may also already be included in the motion sensor.

If relay bases do need to be used, these types of bases are possible per brand:

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​​​Step 1: De-energize

It is important that you de-energize the area where you are going to work, you do this by switching the main switch or the circuit breaker. With a voltage detector you can test whether the area is de-energized.
 

Step 2: Stripping veins

Strip the loose wires to a sufficient length using wire strippers.

Step 3: Connecting wires

Connect the phase wire (brown), the switch wire (black) and the neutral wire (blue) to the correct connections on the relay base. Loosen each screw and slide the wires into the correct connection of the switching element. Then, after placing each wire, tighten the screws carefully. And as always: tight = tight!

 

Connection diagram motion sensor:

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​Please note: This is a connection diagram with a switching element from the Busch-Jaeger brand as an example, so the connection symbols may differ for other brands.

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Step 4: Mount motion sensor on a switching element

Connect the motion sensor to the switching element using the plug. Click the detector onto the connector on the base.
Note: This step is only necessary if the motion sensor has a plug on the switching element.
 

Step 5: Setting up the motion sensor

Set the motion sensor. The sensor can be set for distance and light sensitivity.
Tip: You can use a flat screwdriver to make setting easier.

 

Step 6: Turn on power

​The mounting of the motion sensor is complete and the power can be turned back on.