ZWAVE motion sensor for outdoors

wmcneil · June 24

Looking for recommendations for a ZWAVE motion sensor that can be used outdoors and has a non-battery option (typically USB) for power. I have tried to use a ZOOZ ZSE29 in the past, and it has not reliably detected motion, and I have seen posts from others who were not satisfied with it either. I see that Aeotec has a multisensor 7 out. AFAIK, it is not specifically rated for outside use, but I suspect if it is mostly out of the rain it will work (I have used older Aeotec multisensors in a partially covered outdoor environment in the past with success).

The Multisensor 7 has a bunch of other functionality that I don't really need. If there was another motion detection choice that was reliable, had a non-battery option, and was less expensive, that would be ideal.

Techman · June 24

The only problem I've come across with the Multisensor 7 is that the USB socket is right next to the set button. When a USB cable is plugged into the sensor it's almost impossible to use the set button.

They recently came out with the Multisensor 8, however I haven't seen one so I don't know if they relocated the set button. You might want to contact Aerotech support and ask them if that issue has been resolved.

I use several battery operated Multisensors outdoors under the eaves. They work well and I haven't had any issues with them.

wmcneil · June 24

37 minutes ago, Techman said:

The only problem I've come across with the Multisensor 7 is that the USB socket is right next to the set button. When a USB cable is plugged into the sensor it's almost impossible to use the set button.

They recently came out with the Multisensor 8, however I haven't seen one so I don't know if they relocated the set button. You might want to contact Aerotech support and ask them if that issue has been resolved.

I use several battery operated Multisensors outdoors under the eaves. They work well and I haven't had any issues with them.

Thanks for the info. I see that Aeotec has a product called TriSensor 8, which does not appear to have a USB power option.

ldb · June 24

FWIW, The Zooz ZSE29 is being replaced/upgraded this month (June 2024) according to thesmartesthouse.com, although the Zooz website doesn't reference this.

Techman · June 24

Here's the info on the soohn to be released ZSE29 800 LR

NEW 800LR VERSION COMING 6/2024

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

The first Z-Wave motion sensor made for outdoors
Great for flood light automation and monitoring
NEW IN VER. 2.0: Reports LUX to the hub* (10-900 lux range)
NEW IN VER. 2.0: Adjustable motion sensitivity, ability to disable motion detection, and more advanced settings added*

ldb · June 25

Timely discussion...https://www.thesmartesthouse.com/products/zooz-800-series-z-wave-long-range-outdoor-motion-sensor-zse70-800lr-motion-temp-lux

wmcneil · June 25

12 hours ago, ldb said:

Timely discussion...https://www.thesmartesthouse.com/products/zooz-800-series-z-wave-long-range-outdoor-motion-sensor-zse70-800lr-motion-temp-lux

Looks promising. I ordered one. Not clear exactly what power supply is needed for the supply powered option - I had a look at the zooz user guide and it states "If using 12-24 V, replace the bottom cap with terminal seal. Unscrew the cap and connect 12-24 V wires to the terminals (follow polarity). " The FAQ states "The ZS70 can be powered by either 2 x CR123A (3 V) batteries or 12-24 V AC/DC." Seems a little unlikely to me that it will work with either AC or DC? Since it can be battery powered one would assume DC would work for sure....I have a question in to Zooz support, and once I have the sensor in hand I will know for sure.

jds31 · July 10

I have the same problem. I was looking for either a zwave or zigbee outdoor motion sensor. Hard wired is best for me but batteries are OK. Finally decided to pickup up an inexpensive 110v sensor and connect the output to a 110volt relay. The relay contacts connect to a zigbee switch module that reports status. As a bonus I connected an outdoor LED floodlight to the switch module which turns on with motion or by remote control. This fits nicely in a plastic all weather box mounted under the roof overhang. The motion sensor can be aimed and has sensitivity adjustment. Mounted on an exterior garage wall so access is not a problem. Cost about $60 including the light. Replaced an old x10 outdoor motion sensor that worked most of the time.

wmcneil · July 11

On 6/25/2024 at 8:42 AM, wmcneil said:

Looks promising. I ordered one. Not clear exactly what power supply is needed for the supply powered option - I had a look at the zooz user guide and it states "If using 12-24 V, replace the bottom cap with terminal seal. Unscrew the cap and connect 12-24 V wires to the terminals (follow polarity). " The FAQ states "The ZS70 can be powered by either 2 x CR123A (3 V) batteries or 12-24 V AC/DC." Seems a little unlikely to me that it will work with either AC or DC? Since it can be battery powered one would assume DC would work for sure....I have a question in to Zooz support, and once I have the sensor in hand I will know for sure.

I have received the ZSE70-800LR and included it in my eisy ZMatter ZWAVE network. This is day one, it seems to be working correctly. Zooz support confirmed back to me that the device will work with either two CR123 batteries, or a power supply of 12-24V, AC or DC. (I am using a spare 12VDC supply that I had. You can purchase one very inexpensively at thesmartesthouse , or other vendors.).

The device provides motion sensing, temperature, and luminance. The device acts as a repeater IF it is powered by 12V when it is included. So always apply the power source (battery or 12V) that you intend to continue to use, prior to including the device. (If you include the device using 12V power supply, and then switch to batteries, the device will continue to function as a repeater and rapidly drain the batteries.) The device comes with two CR123A batteries, but does not come with a power supply. The power supply terminals are located under the screw off cap on the bottom of the motion sensor, and have "+" and "-" labels. Drill a hole through the screw off cap to allow the power supply wires to pass.