Motion Control
As always Earthsands has created an easy to follow how-to. This how-to shows how to create a motion conrtol unit using a standard outdoor lighting motion detectorand a simple switching power module.

  < go to page >   < Earthsands>

X-10 Automation
Chris provides basic inforamtion on using an X-10 system for controlling your outdoor display. He goes over what to buy, prices, and setup. This isn't a bad system for 50 bucks!

  < go to page >   < Chris Olsen Halloween>

Mat Switch
A great way to trigger effects when guests are in a certain spot. This Mat Switch is built from poster board and aluminum foil.

  < go to page >   < Allens Halloween >

Light Beam Sensor
A light beam is most appropriate for effects which must be triggered when a person is at a specific point, or for locations where a mat switch is impossible. It can also cover large areas for security. This sensor can be constructed for about \$13 (or for nothing since it's made of common, easily salvaged parts). This is an advenced project with circuits.

  < go to page >   < Allens Halloween >

Computer Control
Provided on this page is how to build all the hardware and software to control your props via computer. This is not for anyone that hasn't used circuits and such.

  < go to page >   < The Bells Halloween >

PIR Modifications
The Bells show how to modify PIR Motion Detectors to control your props. The great thing is, they show how to use diffrent models!

Motion Sensor
This is a great and inexpensive way to automatically activate haunted effects. All you have to do is buy a motion sensor floodlight from your local hardware store for under \$20.00 and a couple of adapters.

 < go to page >   < Haunted Illinois >

Earthsands Mat Switch
Derived from Allens Mat Switch project. Earthsands has created a more durable switch mat from more expensive parts.

  < go to page >   < Earthsands>

PIR Detector
Passive Infra-red (Infrared) (PIR) motion detectors can be used to "trigger" events or automation in your props. Another simplified project from Earthsands!

  < go to page >   < Earthsands>

Timers
Earthsands talks about all sorts of diffrent timers, but goes in depth with the Industrial Delay Timer.

  < go to page >   < Earthsands>

Relay Control
A relay acts as the switch, allowing power to flow to the device or keeps power from reaching the device. Earthsands shows how to safley and effectively control your props through the use of relays.

  < go to page >   < Earthsands>

Photocell Detector Circuit
This is an easy to build photocell circuit that can trigger a relay when the light source is blocked (yea if you know the basics). This project is built from parts from Radio Shack.

  < go to page >   < Ekkers Halloween Hompepage>