Wiring a security system motion sensor typically involves connecting it to your alarm control panel using four wires: two for power and two for the detection signal.
For most motion sensors installed for security systems, they operate on 12V DC power and are connected to four wires: two for power and two for the motion signal. Understanding the function of each wire is key to proper installation.
Understanding the Wires
A standard security motion sensor usually has four terminals or wire connections. These break down into two pairs:
- Power Wires: These provide the necessary electrical power for the sensor to function.
- Signal Wires: These transmit the detection status (e.g., 'no motion' or 'motion detected') back to the alarm panel.
Based on the reference provided, Red and black wires are usually the positive and negative power wires respectively. The other pair of wires, which could be any color, carry the motion detection signal.
Here's a simple breakdown:
| Wire Color (Typical) | Function | Connection Point | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red | 12V DC Positive | Alarm Panel Positive Power | Provides power to the sensor |
| Black | 12V DC Negative | Alarm Panel Negative Power | Completes the power circuit |
| Other Color 1 | Signal (Zone) | Alarm Panel Zone Terminal | Part of the detection circuit |
| Other Color 2 | Signal (Common) | Alarm Panel Common Terminal | Completes the detection circuit |
Connecting to the Alarm Panel
Here are the general steps for wiring a typical 4-wire motion sensor to an alarm control panel:
- Prepare the Sensor: Mount the motion sensor in its desired location.
- Run Wiring: Run a 4-conductor cable from the motion sensor location back to the alarm control panel.
- Connect Power:
- Connect the red wire from the sensor to a 12V DC positive (+) terminal on the alarm panel.
- Connect the black wire from the sensor to a 12V DC negative (-) or ground (GND) terminal on the alarm panel.
- Connect Signal (Zone):
- Connect one of the remaining wires (the signal wires) from the sensor to a zone input terminal on the alarm panel (e.g., Zone 1, Zone 2, etc.).
- Connect the other remaining wire (the common for the signal circuit) to the common (COM) terminal associated with that zone on the alarm panel. This signal circuit typically uses a dry contact closure (open or closed) to indicate motion.
It's crucial to consult both the motion sensor's installation manual and your specific alarm control panel's manual for exact terminal names and wiring configurations, as there can be variations.
Important Considerations:
- Always ensure power is off to the alarm panel before wiring.
- Use the correct gauge wire suitable for the distance.
- Properly strip and secure wire connections to prevent faults.
- Understand how your alarm panel handles zone wiring (e.g., normally open vs. normally closed, end-of-line resistors).
Following these steps, based on the standard 4-wire configuration operating on 12V DC, will allow you to connect your motion sensor to your security system.
