Michael O'TooleI tested the Microwave Radar Sensor 24/7 from a single 3.2 volt LiFePO4 battery for a period of 28 days and here are my conclusions...
The RCWL-0516 worked perfectly for 26 days at which point the battery voltage dropped to just below 3.0 volts and while the device continued to work below 3.0 volts it became more and more erratic as the voltage continued to drop...
- There was no measurable difference in detection be it a 4 volt supply or a 3 volt supply...
- Voltages below 3.0 volt (even if detection is possible) are not consistent and cannot be relied on...
- A single LIFePO4 battery will power the sensor reliably for 175 hours (25 days)...
In the real world I would recharge the battery every two weeks or better still, power the sensor from a near by main socket.
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I'm not familiar with this radar device, but you could have a look at using something like sample and hold to reduce the quiescent current, I've used this on a product in the past and it works a treat.
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