How to Set Up Your SmartThings Motion Sensor

What You Will Need

• SmartThings Motion Sensor
• SmartThings Hub v3 (already set up and online)
• SmartThings app (iOS or Android) with a Samsung account
• CR2450 battery (pre-installed)
• Adhesive strip or mounting screws (included)

Step 1: Prepare the Motion Sensor

1. Remove the SmartThings Motion Sensor from its packaging.
2. Pull the plastic battery tab to activate the pre-installed CR2450 battery.
3. The LED on the sensor will flash, confirming it has power and is ready to pair.

Step 2: Add the Sensor in the SmartThings App

1. Open the SmartThings app and tap the + icon, then select Add Device.
2. Tap SmartThings under the brand list, then select Motion Sensor.
3. Select your SmartThings Hub as the connecting hub.
4. The app will put the hub into Zigbee pairing mode and begin scanning for the sensor.
5. If the sensor does not appear within 60 seconds, press the small reset button on the back of the sensor (using a pin or paperclip) to force it into pairing mode.
6. Once discovered, the app will display the sensor. Name it and assign it to a room (e.g., "Living Room" or "Hallway").

Step 3: Choose a Placement Location

Proper placement is essential for accurate motion detection. The SmartThings Motion Sensor uses a passive infrared (PIR) sensor that detects body heat movement.

• Mount the sensor at approximately seven to eight feet above the floor in a corner for maximum coverage.
• Position it so people walk across the sensor's field of view rather than directly toward it. PIR sensors are most effective at detecting lateral movement.
• Avoid placing the sensor near heat sources such as radiators, heating vents, or windows with direct sunlight, as these can cause false triggers.
• Avoid areas with direct airflow from HVAC vents.

Step 4: Mount the Sensor

You have two mounting options:

• Adhesive strip — Peel the backing and press the sensor firmly against the wall or corner. This is ideal for renters or temporary placements.
• Screw mount — Use the included screws and mounting bracket for a more permanent installation.

The sensor can also sit on a flat surface like a shelf if wall mounting is not practical.

Step 5: Create Automations

The real power of the SmartThings Motion Sensor comes from automations. In the SmartThings app:

• Turn on lights when motion is detected — Tap Automations, create a new routine, set the motion sensor as the trigger, and select lights to turn on.
• Send notifications — Get a push notification on your phone whenever motion is detected in a specific room.
• Arm a security system — Use SmartThings Home Monitor to trigger an alarm when motion is detected while the system is armed.
• Turn off lights after no motion — Create a routine that turns off lights after a set period of no activity.

Tips for Best Performance

• The sensor communicates via Zigbee, which has a range of approximately 50 to 100 feet indoors. Place it within range of your SmartThings Hub or a Zigbee repeater device (such as a SmartThings smart plug).
• Battery life is typically two to three years. Replace the CR2450 battery when the app notifies you.
• The sensor also measures temperature. You can use this data in automations, such as turning on a fan when the room gets too warm.
• If you experience excessive false triggers, lower the sensitivity or reposition the sensor away from heat sources and direct sunlight.