When monitoring outdoor areas, what should microwave sensors not be used for?

Microwave sensors are designed to detect motion and can operate effectively in various environments; however, they have limitations when it comes to specific outdoor environments, particularly bodies of water. The nature of microwave sensors relies on reflecting microwave signals off moving objects to detect motion. Water has a unique property where it can absorb and scatter microwave signals, leading to reduced effectiveness in detecting objects or movements around or on water surfaces. Consequently, the performance of microwave sensors diminishes significantly in scenarios involving bodies of water, making them unsuitable for monitoring such areas.

In contrast, open parking lots, residential backyards, and high-traffic zones typically allow for better sensor performance as these environments provide ample reflective surfaces and more predictable motion patterns.