Lighting
The vital role of sensors in intelligent lighting systems
Modern lighting is smarter, more efficient and more adaptable than ever, thanks in part to intelligent sensing technology.
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IR sensors, microwave sensors and photocells each play a vital role in intelligent lighting systems. Whether you’re looking to cut energy bills, improve convenience or enhance security, understanding these sensor technologies – and where to use them – is key, as Forum Lighting Solutions’ Steve Kaye explains. Different sensors suit different purposes. The key is knowing the right products to use in the right environment – whether that is a home, garden, warehouse or commercial building. PIR sensors are ideal for residential and low- traffic areas. Microwave sensors offer high sensitivity and a broader detection range. Photocells, meanwhile, monitor natural light levels and adjust artificial lighting accordingly, making them perfect for outdoor lighting, burglar alarms and gate automation.
Key features of PIR sensors include:
PIR (passive infrared) Sensors: efficient motion detection
PIR sensors detect infrared (IR) radiation emitted naturally by warm objects such as people or animals. These sensors contain a pyroelectric element that identifies rapid changes in temperature across its detection zones. If someone walks into view, the sensor triggers a light, alarm or other device.
• Detecting body heat movement only • Passive technology (doesn’t emit energy) • Reliable in indoor and low-draft environments
PIR sensors are perfect for indoor lighting control in hallways, staircases, toilets and cupboards. They are also great for security lighting in car parks, building entrances and garden floodlights. Commercially, they work well in warehouses, offices and stairwells. Forum’s Dion 180° PIR Sensor, for example, is wall-mountable with a 5–12 m range and timer from 10 seconds to 7 minutes. IP44 rated, suitable for LED fittings. The Loca 360° Recessed PIR Sensor, meanwhile, is ideal for flush ceiling installations, covering up to 6 m with a full 360° range. And the Alia 360° Corner Mount PIR Sensor is mountable on internal/external corners or flush walls, offering 5–12 m detection and full 360° coverage.
Microwave sensors: powerful and discreet detection
Unlike PIR sensors, microwave sensors emit high-frequency electromagnetic waves (typically 5.8 GHz). When these waves bounce back with a frequency shift (the Doppler effect), motion is detected – even through thin non-metallic materials like glass or plastic.
Key features of microwave senators include: 20 | electrical wholesalerSeptember 2025
“Different sensors suit different purposes. The key is knowing the right products to use in the right environment.”
• Detects movement through walls or glass • Greater sensitivity and wider coverage • Less affected by temperature and airflow These sensors are ideal for high-ceiling or complex layouts such as within warehouses, corridors and underground car parks. They are useful in high-risk areas where false triggering from heat or airflow is common, and they can be hidden behind panels or ceilings. Forum’s Microwave Sensor, for example, is ceiling-mounted, offering a compact and flush
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