fwiw, i glossed over the motion bit - but I feel compelled to praise the EZIO8SA and SensorSwitch gear...
After years of constantly changing motion sensor batteries - that
NEVER last as long as they say - I am free of the burdon! On a recent kitchen remodel - I was able to pull wire for all of the existing sensors on the main floor and add some additional ones.
After quite a bit of research i have 5 different models of sensors deployed;
- DSC BV-502, Ademco 997: the first ones I bought - before I knew anything. They're good general purpose sensors, but lack the range or sensitivity that i needed.. Great for "deliberate", big motion occupancy areas - like hallways and laundry rooms.
- Sensor Switch CM-9: used in my office, selected for its ability to detect small movements - like typing for long periods of time. The Insteon sensors would often trigger an off signal when they weren't able to sense movement while typing..
- Sensor Switch CMR 10: Like the CM-9, it has great sensitivity. This model covers a 30 foot radius - which is great for a large, open kitchen where people often sit for long periods of time with small movements.
- Aeotec 6-in-1: These are kind of like the jacks of all trades. They're "ok" for motion in small areas, 10 feet is pushing it. I also measure luminance - for my eventual progressive lighting. I use the optional recessed wall mounts for a really clean look. I soldered a micro usb jack to the hardwire run - for power.
It took some trial and error getting each of the models to work - as some of these are designed to be incorporated into commercial lighting "systems". The Sensor Switch models were the biggest challenge as they have a ton of configurable options - some of the default values weren't expected.. Overall, the documentation was pretty good.
These aren't that pretty to look at - but they disappear on the ceiling once you disable the status LED.
They all run back to a panel in my utility room - where the EZIO8SA is mounted. The Aeotec sensors are powered by a small USB transformer.
The overall sensitivity & reliability from these sensors is like day and night compared to battery operated variety. I still have quite a few of the newer Insteon models with usb option - i may re-introduce them at some point. Aside from the Aeotec - they were all found on eBay for a fraction of their retail price - mostly NIB.
Hope that helps someone! I'm still prettying it all up - so I'll wait to post photos...