The RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Sensor Module is a 3.18 GHz Doppler radar motion detector that senses movement of people and objects through walls, glass, and thin partitions, outputting a 3.3V digital HIGH signal when motion is detected within 7 metres. The rcwl 0516 radar module operates from 4V to 28V DC at only 3mA, making it suitable for continuous always-on deployments from USB power, 5V Arduino rails, or 12V panel supplies without significant power overhead.
Microwave radar sensor detects micro-Doppler frequency shifts caused by physical movement — the 3.18 GHz microwave signal penetrates non-metallic surfaces and reflects off moving objects, allowing the rcwl 0516 sensor to detect motion through a closed plastic enclosure, a wooden cabinet door, or a glass panel. Per the rcwl-0516 datasheet, the module’s detection sensitivity can be adjusted by adding a resistor to the CDS pad, and detection range can be reduced by soldering a resistor to the R-GN pad for close-range-only applications.
The microwave sensor module cannot distinguish between human motion and other moving objects such as fans, curtains, and animals — false triggers from nearby moving objects are more frequent compared to dual-zone PIR sensors with fresnel lens focus. Available at StemVolt, this module is ideal for engineers developing motion detection and occupancy sensing systems.
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Features:
- 3.18 GHz Doppler radar detects motion through walls and enclosures
- 7-metre detection range covers full room and corridor deployments
- 3.3V digital output connects directly to Arduino and ESP32 pins
- 4V to 28V wide supply suits USB 5V and 12V panel power
- 3mA low current enables always-on security and automation builds
Technical specifications:
 Applications:
- RCWL-0516 Radar Module used for Arduino automatic light switch build
- College project uses rcwl 0516 radar module for through-wall motion demo
- Smart security uses microwave radar sensor for concealed enclosure detection
- Visitor counter uses microwave sensor module for corridor entry sensing
- IoT alarm uses rcwl 0516 sensor for ESP8266 WiFi motion alert build
Package includes:
- 1 x RCWL-0516 Microwave Radar Sensor
Harshal Patel –
Technical support was helpful
Tushar Kadam –
Easy to integrate with microcontrollers, making it suitable for DIY projects and embedded systems requiring non-contact motion sensing.
Abhay Joshi –
COD available
Shruti Sawant –
Impressed with quality
Tanay Deshpande –
Perfect for robotics projects
Neha Mehta –
This module provides reliable motion detection and works effectively for automation, security, and robotics applications