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Can we talk about using a $12 laser pointer to check PIR sensor alignment?
I tried it on a stubborn sensor in a Boise split-level and it showed the beam was hitting a ceiling fan blade on every rotation, which explained the false alarms.
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felix8246mo ago
That trick with the laser pointer is solid. I've used it to find reflections off a glass picture frame and a shiny toaster. Sometimes the beam path is way off from where you think the sensor is looking. For a real stubborn one, you can even tape the button down and watch the dot move as you walk around the room.
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alicew686mo ago
Yeah, it's a total lifesaver for those weird blind spots. I spent an hour trying to figure out why my living room light wouldn't turn off, and it was a stupid metal vase on a shelf. The beam showed the sensor was catching a tiny sliver of reflection from it. Taping the button down is the next level move for sure, lets you see the whole path without holding it.
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torres.sage6mo ago
Oh man, I saw a forum post where someone did this with their cat's toy laser. They found the sensor was picking up a glare from their TV screen of all things.
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