![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs85hsyx45ZO5RXumCCVqTJR5ng8D5BKZfQUCGPt6R8h9MbiaUik3uso9xrckRaBTN0a3ky7WLYMF4vFBfQ8OJT7FHf3dKzHd770_J3e_LcFbrlNwhsp7QhGLRXp2v2gTtS7wfV6VJQ90T/s320/board.jpg)
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5I1GNJSlz7alnHdVe33IWEcPMEdLdXyOjtgDGri0maScttB73__G5v8I19bOz1Q5aom41982P2eDm_BrmXpfz_J78cpM0RbrNilD9md6_bRmqq8R3q2TipENgI7nzIU9Vf8xMYZl5SC9/s320/stair.jpg)
I had grand plans for staircase lighting that illuminated whenever you stepped on the first steps. I carefully engineered a board and had it all working on the bench using IR reflecting detectors to sense the footsteps. But upon installation I discovered that the sensors sucked -- their practical range was only a few inches and they generated a lot of false positives. So, until I can find a new sensor system the lights are just boringly connected to an old-fashioned light switch. But, at least I can tread safely on the stairs at night now!