The design includes detailed detection experiment results and methodologies for further performance evaluation under varying conditions.
As consumer technology evolves, battery-powered devices such as video doorbells and surveillance cameras have become increasingly prevalent, replacing direct line-powered systems. This shift facilitates easier installation in diverse locations but introduces the challenge of extending battery life. Video recording and streaming are among the most power-intensive operations for these devices, requiring data capture via the camera, image signal processing, and WiFi transmission to the cloud. To mitigate power consumption, advanced surveillance systems integrate presence detection technologies that minimise false alarms and ensure accurate detections, optimising reliability and energy efficiency.
Despite their advantages, presence detection systems often encounter tradeoffs among three critical factors: low power consumption, extended detection range, and minimal false alarm rates. Texas Instruments IWRL6432AOP mmWave radar overcomes these challenges by striking an effective balance. This radar technology supports the growing demand for high-performance, battery-efficient outdoor surveillance solutions by leveraging high transmission power, multiple detection modes, and programmable features through its M4F core and hardware accelerator (HWA).
The TIDEP-01035 reference design by Texas Instruments demonstrates the advanced capabilities of the IWRL6432AOP in detecting motion and presence across various applications, including home security cameras, video doorbells, and automated systems. The radar achieves long-range detection and wide-angle coverage with an efficient antenna design. It conserves energy by transitioning into deep sleep modes during idle periods, while its sophisticated algorithms nearly eliminate false alarms, enhancing overall detection reliability. The IWRL6432AOP’s multistage architecture enables it to excel in all three critical dimensions simultaneously: long detection range, low power consumption, and near-zero false alarm rates. Devices integrating this radar benefit from enhanced battery life, precise motion detection, and fewer operational disruptions caused by false triggers, making it an ideal choice for battery-powered surveillance systems.
This reference design incorporates demonstration hardware and software utilizing the IWRL6432AOP to detect movement and activate video camera systems. The radar features integrated antennas, a fully programmable M4F core operating at 160 MHz, and an 80 MHz HWA for handling complex radar operations. The included default software provides optimized detection range, power efficiency, and false alarm suppression. Applications for the IWRL6432AOP include video doorbells, wireless security cameras, motion detectors, area lighting systems, and outdoor air conditioning units. This reference design underscores the radar’s potential to redefine battery-powered surveillance by addressing industry challenges and setting a new standard for performance and efficiency.
TI has tested this reference design. It comes with a bill of materials (BOM), schematics, assembly drawing, printed circuit board (PCB) layout, and more. The company’s website has additional data about the reference design. To read more about this reference design, click here.
