1. Introduction
The Directed Electronics 508D Dual Zone Motion Sensor is designed to enhance vehicle security by creating an invisible sensing field around your car. Utilizing Radio Frequency (RF) field disturbance technology, it detects moving high-density objects, including people, near or within your vehicle. This sensor is particularly effective for convertibles or any application where zone-intrusion protection is desired. Violation of the outer field can trigger siren chirps or a WarnAway message, while intrusion into the inner zone will activate the system's full siren.
Figure 1: Directed Electronics 508D Dual Zone Motion Sensor. This image displays the clear rectangular unit, revealing internal components, with visible adjustment screws and wiring extending from one end.
2. Key Features
- Invisi-beam Field Disturbance Sensor: Creates an invisible protective field.
- Dual Zone Detection: Generates two distinct detection fields around your vehicle.
- Warn-Away and Full Alarm Response: Provides a preliminary warning for outer zone violations and a full alarm for inner zone intrusions.
- RF Field-Disturbance Technology: Detects moving high-density objects effectively.
- Versatile Application: Ideal for convertibles, trucks, and various other vehicle types.
3. Setup and Installation
The Directed 508D sensor is designed for integration with compatible vehicle alarm systems. For many systems, it can be directly plugged into a 4-pin MUX port (often designated as zone 7) without requiring wire splicing, as the necessary cable is typically included with the sensor. Consult your vehicle alarm system's manual for specific MUX port locations and compatibility.
General Installation Steps:
- Mounting Location: Choose a central location within the vehicle's interior, such as on the ceiling near the dome light or on the dashboard, to ensure optimal coverage. The sensor should have an unobstructed view of the areas to be protected.
- Connection: Connect the sensor's cable to the designated MUX port on your alarm system's main unit.
- Initial Power-Up: Once connected, power up your alarm system. The sensor will typically perform an initial calibration.
- Sensitivity Adjustment: The sensor features sensitivity adjustments. These are usually small screws or dials on the unit itself. Adjust the sensitivity carefully to prevent false alarms while ensuring adequate detection.
4. Operating Instructions
The 508D Dual Zone Motion Sensor operates in conjunction with your vehicle's alarm system. Once installed and armed, it continuously monitors the defined detection zones around and within your vehicle.
- Arming: When your vehicle's alarm system is armed, the 508D sensor becomes active.
- Outer Zone Detection: If a high-density object (e.g., a person) enters the outer detection field, the sensor will trigger a preliminary warning, such as a series of chirps from the siren or a pre-recorded message if a voice module is installed. This serves as a deterrent.
- Inner Zone Intrusion: If the object proceeds into the inner detection zone, indicating a closer proximity or attempted entry, the sensor will trigger the full alarm system, activating the siren and other connected security features.
- Disarming: Disarming your vehicle's alarm system will deactivate the 508D sensor until the system is re-armed.
Demonstration Videos
Video 1: Directed 508D Motion Sensor in action. This video demonstrates the sensor triggering an alarm when a hand approaches the vehicle's interior, showcasing its detection capabilities.
Video 2: Directed 508D Motion Sensor demonstration. This video shows the sensor activating an alarm when a person approaches the vehicle, illustrating its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
5. Maintenance
The Directed 508D Motion Sensor requires minimal maintenance. To ensure optimal performance:
- Keep Clean: Periodically wipe the sensor's exterior with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Check Connections: Ensure all wiring connections to the alarm system remain secure and free from corrosion.
- Avoid Obstructions: Ensure that no objects are placed directly in front of or around the sensor that could obstruct its detection field.
6. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your 508D Dual Zone Motion Sensor, consider the following:
False Alarms
- Arming Delay: To prevent false alarms, allow approximately 7-10 seconds after exiting the vehicle before arming the alarm system. This allows the sensor to take accurate baseline measurements of the environment. Arming too quickly after a door closes can cause the sensor to misinterpret the change as an intrusion.
- Sensitivity Adjustment: If false alarms persist, the sensor's sensitivity may be set too high. Carefully adjust the sensitivity dials or screws on the unit. Test the system after each adjustment to find the optimal setting that detects genuine threats without triggering unnecessarily.
- Environmental Factors: Heavy rain or strong winds can sometimes trigger motion sensors. If you frequently experience false alarms due to weather, consider temporarily reducing sensitivity or installing a toggle switch on the signal wire to disable the sensor during adverse conditions.
- Obstructions: Ensure there are no loose items inside the vehicle or objects outside that could move and trigger the sensor (e.g., tree branches swaying close to the car).
No Detection
- Check Power and Connections: Verify that the sensor is properly connected to the alarm system and receiving power.
- Sensitivity Setting: The sensitivity might be set too low. Increase the sensitivity gradually and test the detection range.
- Sensor Placement: Ensure the sensor is mounted in a location that provides adequate coverage and is not obstructed.
7. Specifications
| Brand | Directed |
| Model Number | 508D |
| Product Dimensions | 8.5 x 2 x 6.7 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.52 ounces (0.1 Kilograms) |
| Color | Silver |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Battery Description | Battery not included |
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount (typically installed internally in vehicles) |
| Compatible Devices | Security System |
| Connectivity Technologies | Radio Frequency |
| What's in the Box | Dual-zone Field Disturbance Sensor |
| Manufacturer | Directed Electronics Inc |
| Date First Available | July 20, 2005 |
8. Warranty Information
The warranty for the Directed Electronics 508D Dual Zone Motion Sensor typically covers manufacturing defects. Please note that the warranty does not cover misuse of the product. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Directed Electronics customer support.
9. Support
For further assistance, technical support, or inquiries regarding the Directed Electronics 508D Dual Zone Motion Sensor, please visit the official Directed Electronics website or contact their customer service department. Ensure you have your product model number (508D) and any relevant purchase information available when seeking support.
