Contents
Introduction
AI-Thinker Radar sensing modules are revolutionizing IoT applications, from smart lighting to security systems. Shenzhen AI-Thinker offers a range of radar modules—RD-01, RD-03, RD-03D, and RD-04—each tailored for different use cases. This article compares their key specs, performance, and ideal applications to help you choose the right one for your project.
Overview & Key Differences
| Feature | RD-01 | RD-03 | RD-03D | RD-04 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radar Chip | S3KM111L (24GHz) | S3KM1110 (24GHz) | SSKM312CL (24GHz) | XBR818 (10.525GHz) |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi + BLE (BL602) | UART only | UART (256kbps) | I2C + Digital OUT |
| Max Range | 5m (wall) | 10m (wall) | 8m (wall) | 6.5m (wall) |
| Detection Angle | ±60° | ±60° | ±60° (Az) / ±30° (Pitch) | ±50° |
| Power Supply | 3.0–3.6V (500mA) | 3.0–3.6V (200mA) | 5V (200mA) | 3.0–3.6V (100mA) |
| Power Consumption | 65–260mA (Wi-Fi) | 50mA (avg) | 92mA (avg) | 16mA (const.) / 110µA (pulse) |
| Interfaces | UART, GPIO, SPI, I2C | UART + Digital OUT | UART | I2C + Digital OUT |
| Tracking | Single-target | Single-target | Multi-target | Single-target |
| Best For | Wi-Fi/BLE-connected sensing | Basic presence detection | Advanced tracking (retail/security) | Low-power motion sensing |
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Detailed Comparison
A. Radar Technology & Frequency
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RD-01, RD-03, RD-03D: Use 24GHz K-band (good for indoor sensing).
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RD-04: Uses 10.525GHz X-band (better for non-penetrating, low-power apps).
✅ RD-03D is best for multi-target tracking (e.g., retail analytics).
✅ RD-04 is ideal for battery-powered devices (e.g., motion-activated lights).
B. Detection Range & Angle
| Module | Max Range (Wall) | Detection Angle |
|---|---|---|
| RD-01 | 5m | ±60° |
| RD-03 | 10m | ±60° |
| RD-03D | 8m | ±60° (Az) / ±30° (Pitch) |
| RD-04 | 6.5m | ±50° |
💡 RD-03 has the longest range (10m), while RD-03D offers 3D tracking.
C. Power Efficiency
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RD-01: Highest power draw (Wi-Fi/BLE active).
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RD-03 & RD-03D: Moderate (~50–92mA).
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RD-04: Ultra-low power (110µA in pulse mode).
🔋 For battery life, RD-04 wins.
D. Connectivity & Interfaces
| Module | Wireless | Wired Interfaces |
|---|---|---|
| RD-01 | Wi-Fi + BLE | UART, GPIO, SPI, I2C |
| RD-03 | None | UART + Digital OUT |
| RD-03D | None | UART (256kbps) |
| RD-04 | None | I2C + Digital OUT |
📶 RD-01 is the only Wi-Fi/BLE-enabled module.
Best Use Cases
🔹 RD-01 – Smart Home Hub
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Pros: Wi-Fi/BLE connectivity, flexible GPIO.
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Use Case: Smart lighting, security systems with cloud integration.
🔹 RD-03 – Simple Presence Detection
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Pros: Long range (10m), easy UART interface.
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Use Case: Automatic doors, occupancy sensors.
🔹 RD-03D – Advanced Tracking
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Pros: Multi-target tracking, high-speed UART.
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Use Case: Retail analytics, smart advertising displays.
🔹 RD-04 – Ultra-Low Power Motion Sensing
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Pros: 110µA sleep mode, X-band (no wall penetration).
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Use Case: Battery-powered IoT (pet feeders, doorbells).
Final Verdict – Which One Should You Choose?
| Choose… | If You Need… |
|---|---|
| RD-01 | Wi-Fi/BLE-connected sensing (smart homes). |
| RD-03 | Long-range, cost-effective presence detection. |
| RD-03D | Multi-target tracking (retail, security). |
| RD-04 | Battery-powered, low-power motion sensing. |
💡 For most IoT projects:
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RD-01 (if Wi-Fi is needed).
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RD-04 (if battery life is critical).
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RD-03D (for advanced tracking).
External Resources
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