We all know what motion detectors do, however as part of a home automation system, occupancy sensors can do a bit more than that. Occupancy sensors can observe and detect people in the environment though microphones and heat detectors. These devices are intelligent enough to detect the slightest whisper or even the sound of a page turning from someone in the space reading the latest fashion magazine. Not only can lights be controlled, but fans, vents, room controls, tv's as well as many other items can be trigged by a occupancy sensor.
Great locations for these are closets, kitchens and bathrooms in your home or business. When someone walks into that space, the sensor can be programmed to turn on one or even a series of lights, an exhaust vent, heater, lamp or better yet, can dim lights to a specific level. This is great when walking into a kitchen late at night. When the room is no longer occupied devices can turn themselves off AUTOMATICALLY! What a great way to save energy!