Outdoor sensors are devices that measure an outdoor environment for a variety of environmental conditions, phenomena, and elements. Such devices have come to play a great role in systems like security automation and environmental monitoring.

These sensors have different kinds, each suited for certain tasks. Take, for example, the motion sensor, used by security companies for detecting movement and probably attracting attention to alarms or lights when a person enters a monitored area. They use such technologies as passive infrared (PIR) in detecting changes in heat and movement.

Other types are light-level sensors that can actually sense the light quantity and then adjust the outdoor lighting based on time of day or level of ambient light. Their energy-saving use can make them automatically adjust the lighting according to the natural light conditions.

The outdoor environment can be monitored by several sensors, in terms of temperature and humidity, providing useful information for weather forecasting, agriculture, and climate control systems. They measure the moisture content in the air and temperature, which helps the judgment made for irrigation, heating, or cooling.

Other rain sensors make the identification of precipitation possible. Such sensors can be used with irrigation systems to avoid watering when there is rainfall. The devices find uses in water saving and proper functioning of irrigation systems.

Outdoor sensors typically are more ruggedly designed than indoor sensors, thus giving them tolerance to extreme temperature, rain, or dust. Often built into rugged enclosures and using very robust material, they ensure good long-term reliability and proper performance of operations across many weather conditions.