How to Break a Motion Sensor

Light motion sensors detect body heat using infrared sensors.

Capable of detecting solids, gases, light or heat, motion sensors use optics and light to detect objects. In addition, motion sensors provide security for homes and businesses and often are used in electronics, such as video-game systems and GPS devices. Sold as either stand-alone equipment or implanted into third-party devices, sensors often break, prompting users to recycle. However, before recycling, a user might want to break a sensor to remove any lights or electrical components for use in a different project or device.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Worker gloves

Instructions

1. Open the battery compartment to remove the batteries. If necessary, use a screwdriver to open the compartment.

2. Use a screwdriver to remove any casings or plastic covers from the sensor. If necessary, use a hammer to gently hit and crack plastic coverings to remove them. Wear worker's gloves when removing the cracked pieces to avoid cutting your hands.

3. Decide on how you wish to break the sensor. You may destroy the sensor by soaking it in water, breaking it with a hammer or baseball bat or by placing the sensor inside a microwave and frying the electrical circuitry. Exercise caution when breaking the sensor because sharp pieces might fly if hit.

4. Place the plastic parts and electrical components inside a plastic bag. Take the batteries and motion sensor parts to your nearest recycling center for proper removal.

References

• Glolab: How Motion Detectors Work
• Mad Science: How do Motion Sensors Work

Resources

• Earth 911: Recycling Centers