KW307 Module FAQ

Q: Do I need an external MCU to use the KW307 module?

A: Yes. A simple, low-cost MCU, such as a Cortex-M0 or 8051, is required to initialize the KW307 module and configure it for the target application.

Once configured, the module handles the core radar signal processing and detection algorithms internally. It outputs object location data through a standard UART interface at a configurable update rate, allowing the sensing data to be used directly in your system logic.

Q: How do I determine the optimal configuration and setup for the KW307 module?

A: We recommend starting with a KW307 evaluation module from an authorized distributor such as DigiKey, together with Keywave’s evaluation software.

The evaluation software includes a visual radar GUI and real-time target plot, allowing users to view object locations graphically. SDK parameters can be adjusted within the software so developers can immediately observe how configuration changes affect detection performance, range, sensitivity, and mapping behaviour.

Q: Can I customize the physical dimensions and field of view (FOV) of the radar module?

A: Yes. Keywave can provide custom module layouts and optimized antenna designs on an NRE (Non-Recurring Engineering) basis to meet specific footprint, field-of-view, and application requirements.

Alternatively, for customers with in-house radar antenna design expertise, Keywave can supply the radar chip and MCU combination directly, subject to MOQ requirements. Please contact our sales team to discuss technical requirements, volume expectations, and pricing.

Q: What should I do if my application is not supported by the standard SDK or demo software?

A: For specialized applications not covered by the standard release package, please contact Keywave to discuss your requirements.

We evaluate custom requests based on technical feasibility, application requirements, and market volume potential. Depending on the project, Keywave may provide access to additional firmware functions or develop tailored functionality for the application. Custom development may involve an NRE fee.

Q: What is the difference between KW307 and KW007?

A: KW007 is designed for low-power motion detection, while KW307 is designed for human presence and occupancy sensing, including stationary human detection and location reporting.

KW007 is suitable for simple motion-triggered products such as lighting, switches, appliances, and battery-powered devices. KW307 is better suited for applications that need richer spatial information, such as distance, angle, movement status, and stationary human presence.

Q: Can your radar distinguish between pets and humans?

A: Yes. Leveraging the unique beamforming array and phase angle reporting capabilities of our KW307 chip, the radar can establish a defined height threshold (e.g., 120 cm). This allows it to effectively filter out pets moving on the floor or jumping on furniture.

Please contact us with your specific requirements—we can help you select the most suitable module or provide a customized solution for your project.

Q: I need to restrict detection to a narrow field of view (FOV). Should I use software FOV settings, or do I need an antenna array with beamforming?

A: Both approaches work together. The RX channels on our KW307 chip support up to 4 array beams, which physically narrow the beam to 20°–40°, depending on your TX/RX array layout. Meanwhile, our software angle reporting further provides precise pinpointing of the target's position. For safety-critical applications like elevators or security systems, hardware-level physical angle filtering is always preferred.

Q: I see your datasheet mentions the KW307 consumes 2mW in low update rate mode (0.5Hz). Can you tell me more about this feature?

A: For an instant response when a human enters the detection zone, an active update rate of 20Hz is ideal, providing a rapid 0.1-second trigger time. However, to optimize power consumption, you can set the radar to a low-power "guard mode" at 0.5Hz (or lower).

For instance, across a 20-meter range, the system can monitor for human motion at 0.5Hz and then instantly switch to 20Hz to track the target's location. The warm-up/transition time for this mode switch is under 0.2 seconds—fast enough to capture and verify a person entering a designated zone (e.g., within 10 meters).