Outdoor People Counting Without Power or Internet: SensMax SE vs SensMax DE

Managing foot traffic in outdoor environments — like nature parks, hiking trails, and historical landmarks— requires data, even in places without power or internet. That’s where standalone, battery-operated people counting sensors come in. They allow local governments, municipalities, or private operators to:

1. Understand visitor flows and seasonal trends
2. Plan maintenance based on footfall volume
3. Justify funding with real usage data
4. Manage crowding and protect sensitive areas

 

SensMax offers two popular models for outdoor standalone use:

• SensMax SE — basic one-direction sensor with high battery life
• SensMax DE — bidirectional sensor for IN/OUT counting

SensMax SE Sensor

Is a compact, battery-powered infrared people counter designed for simple one-direction counting in outdoor environments.

Key Features

• Counts every beam break (no direction detection)
• Battery life up to 2 years (replaceable batteries)
• Memory for up to 250 days of hourly data
• Waterproof outdoor casing with sun shield
• Easy data retrieval via handheld data collecting device

Technical Specifications

• Counting distance: up to 10 meters
• Power: 2×AA batteries
• Operating temperature: -30°C to +60°C
• Installation height: ~1.2 m

Best For:

Single-entrance paths, bike trails, narrow walkways, or isolated park access points where direction isn’t critical.

SensMax DE Sensor

The SensMax DE is a **bidirectional infrared sensor** that tracks both entry and exit traffic in outdoor conditions. It’s perfect for higher-traffic or more complex entrances.

Key Features

• Accurately tracks IN and OUT movement
• Battery life up to 12 months (rechargeable or replaceable)
• Internal memory for up to 150 days of hourly data
• Water-resistant housing with extended temperature tolerance
• Easy data retrieval via handheld data collecting device

Technical Specifications

• Counting distance: up to 10 meters
• Power: 2×AA or rechargeable battery
• Operating temperature: -30°C to +60°C
• Installation height: ~1.2m

Best For:

Entrances/exits to parks, trails, or attractions where it’s important to distinguish between incoming and outgoing visitors.

Installation Tips for Outdoor Counters

• Mount sensors on stable poles, trees, or walls approximately 1.2 m from the ground
• Ensure direct line of sight between transmitter and receiver
• Ensure devices are mounted with covers
• Retrieve data monthly or quarterly depending on visitor volume

Comparison: SensMax SE vs DE

Feature	SensMax SE	SensMax DE
Counting Direction	One-way (total passes)	Bidirectional (IN/OUT)
Battery Life	~2 years	~12 months
Counting Distance	Up to 10m	Up to 10m
Data Storage	250 days hourly data	150 days hourly data
Power Type	2×AA batteries	2×AA or rechargeable
Data Collection	Manual via data collector	Manual via data collector
Outdoor housing	IP65	IP65
Best Use	Basic counting, trails, fences	Entry/exit monitoring at gates

For outdoor environments with no electricity or internet, SensMax SE and SensMax DE sensors offer reliable, self-sufficient people counting. The SE model is perfect for total footfall estimation on trails and paths, while the DE model gives deeper analytics with directional insights at entrances and exits.

 

Need help choosing the right outdoor counter for your location? Contact us for a tailored consultation.