Abstract: An apparatus for providing an illusion of occupancy is provided. The apparatus includes a prime mover having a shaft configured to receive an actuator, an actuator configured to interface the prime mover to an illusion target, and a microcontroller having a memory operatively coupled to selectably operate the prime mover. The microcontroller is configured with a first value representing an average time between a plurality of first movements of the prime mover, a second value representing an average time between the first movement and a second movement of the prime mover, and a third value representing a quantity of random variability to be applied to the first value and the second value. The microcontroller is further configured to operate the prime mover in accordance with the first value, the second value, and the third value, thereby manipulating the illusion target and providing the illusion of occupancy.