The Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor is an advanced Wi-Fi-based presence detection device that uses millimeter-wave radar technology to detect human presence even when a person is completely still — sitting, sleeping, or reading. Unlike PIR motion sensors, it does not rely on movement to detect occupancy. The FP2 connects directly to your Wi-Fi network, so it does not require an Aqara Hub.
What You Will Need
- Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor
- USB-C power cable and adapter (included)
- A 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network
- Aqara Home app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
- Included adhesive mount or stand
Understanding How the FP2 Differs from Motion Sensors
Traditional PIR motion sensors detect changes in infrared heat patterns, which means they only trigger when someone is actively moving. The FP2 uses millimeter-wave radar to detect the micro-movements of a human body — like breathing and heartbeat — so it knows someone is in the room even if they are perfectly still. It also supports zone-based detection, allowing you to define multiple detection areas within a single room.
Choosing the Right Location
The FP2 has a detection range of up to 5 meters and a 120-degree field of view. Placement is critical for accurate detection:
- Mount the sensor at a height of 1.2 to 2 meters on a wall, ideally overlooking the main area of the room.
- The sensor should face the area where people will be sitting or standing. Angle it slightly downward if mounted high.
- Avoid placing the sensor behind glass or thin walls, as radar waves can pass through and detect movement in adjacent rooms, causing false triggers.
- Keep the sensor away from fans, curtains, and other objects that may produce constant movement.
- Ensure the sensor has a clear line of sight to the detection area without large obstructions.
Mounting the Sensor
- Decide whether to use the adhesive wall mount or the stand for desk or shelf placement.
- For wall mounting, peel the adhesive backing and press the mount firmly to the wall at your chosen height. Attach the sensor to the mount.
- For desk placement, attach the sensor to the included stand and position it with the lens facing the room.
- Connect the USB-C power cable to the sensor and plug the adapter into a nearby outlet. The FP2 requires continuous power and does not operate on batteries.
Pairing with the Aqara Home App
- Open the Aqara Home app and tap the + icon.
- Select FP2 Presence Sensor from the device list.
- The app will guide you through connecting the FP2 to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. Enter your network credentials when prompted.
- Wait for the sensor to connect. This may take up to a minute.
- Once connected, assign the sensor to a room and name it.
Configuring Detection Zones
One of the FP2's standout features is multi-zone detection. You can define up to 30 zones within the sensor's field of view, and each zone can independently report presence:
- In the FP2's settings within the Aqara Home app, select Zone Configuration.
- You will see a top-down diagram of the detection area. Draw rectangular zones to define specific areas — for example, "desk area," "couch area," and "doorway."
- Each zone can trigger separate automations, allowing granular control. For instance, lights near the desk turn on only when someone is at the desk, not when they are on the couch.
- Adjust the detection distance and sensitivity settings to fine-tune accuracy.
Setting Up Presence Automations
- Lights on when present — Turn on room lights when presence is detected in any zone, and turn them off when the room is truly empty (not just when someone stops moving).
- Zone-specific control — Turn on a desk lamp when someone is at the desk zone, and turn on the TV area lights when the couch zone is occupied.
- HVAC control — Adjust heating or cooling when a room is occupied or vacant.
- Security — Send alerts when presence is detected while the home is in "Away" mode.
Apple HomeKit and Matter Support
The FP2 supports Apple HomeKit natively and also supports Matter via a firmware update. Once added to HomeKit, each detection zone appears as a separate occupancy sensor, giving you powerful automation capabilities within the Apple Home app.
Tips
- After mounting, give the FP2 a few minutes to calibrate. Walk in and out of the room and check the app to verify accurate detection.
- If the sensor detects presence in adjacent rooms through walls, reduce the detection distance in the settings or reposition the sensor to face away from thin walls.
- The FP2 can also detect the number of people in a room (up to five), which can be used for more advanced automations.
- Keep the firmware updated for improved detection algorithms and new features.
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