Example 50: Radar Sensor Module

Supports RCWL-0516 microwave radar, 5.8GHz human presence/motion radar, and other modules with OUT digital output. FastBee has a built-in RADAR_SENSOR peripheral type with type ID 49, and the read result is 1/0.

Wiring

Using RCWL-0516 as an example:

Module Pin	ESP32/ESP32-S3	Description
3V3	3.3V	Module 3.3V output or power pin, wire per actual labeling
GND	GND	Common ground required
OUT	GPIO16 example	Default outputs HIGH when target detected
VIN	4-28V	Note power range when using VIN supply
CDS	Optional	Can connect photoresistor control, per module documentation

For 5.8GHz radar modules with only VCC/GND/OUT, connect OUT to an input GPIO.

Peripheral Execution Read

Add a new peripheral execution rule, select Sensor Read:

{
  "periphId": "radar_01",
  "sensorCategory": "radar",
  "dataField": "presence",
  "sensorLabel": "Radar Presence",
  "unit": "",
  "decimalPlaces": 0
}

After execution, data source ds:radar_01_presence is written:

Value	Meaning
1	Motion or presence detected
0	Not detected

Linkage Example

Turn on relay when someone is present:

1. Create a timer-triggered rule to perform radar read every 1-2 seconds.
2. Create an event-triggered rule, event select ds:radar_01_presence, condition = 1.
3. Select relay peripheral for action, set HIGH or LOW depending on relay active level.

Debug Interface

GET /api/peripherals/status?id=radar_01

The detected and value fields in the response can be used to confirm module output.

Installation Tips

• Do not cover the radar antenna area with metal enclosure. Point the sensing surface toward the detection area during installation.
• RCWL-0516 default detection range is several meters. Output stays HIGH for a period before pulling LOW — this is the module's own behavior.
• If the module outputs LOW to indicate detection, uncheck "OUT HIGH indicates detection".
• Radar penetrates thin plastic and cardboard more easily than PIR, and is more affected by installation environment. Perform final threshold and delay testing after fixed installation.