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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Decatur?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly good grasp of what motion detectors do solely based on their name. Of course, they sense movement, but how exactly do they work? Take a little time to learn about the technology that drives them and the many kinds of sensors you might find. You’ll attain a better appreciation of how they work and how you may integrate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Sensing movement can be achieved in several different ways, but motion detectors are typically placed into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These instruments are viewed as active, as they continually send out signals like microwaves and then assess the response time. Activity is signified when the response time changes. While microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that utilize infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually seen within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors operate by detecting shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the instrument detects what the regular temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are sudden heat surges, like a trespasser skulking along the area, the detector observes it and activates your alarm. Since they don’t continuously send out signals, passive detectors typically consume less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

Besides active and passive, you might discover hybrid motion detectors that use multiple technologies. These can help lower false alarms, as each sensor has to be tripped before the warning siren goes off. Other alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are commonly utilized in larger industrial locations.

How to use Decatur motion detectors

The primary objective of motion detectors is to detect motion within a specified area, usually as far as 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them incorporated into outdoor floodlights or as standalone devices within the interior of your residence. When activity is identified, they’ll set off your warning siren and alert your professional monitoring team.

But modern motion detectors are more versatile than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they can connect directly with other smart devices. For example, they can signal your integrated smart light bulbs to illuminate or your video camera to record when activity is detected. They may even signal your smart thermostat to modify the temperature.

Get automatic alerts and customize settings for animals

One more tremendous advantage of modern motion detectors is that you’ll have immediate notifications dispatched to your smartphone each time the detector is activated. If you own animals, you can even preempt false alarms by tailoring settings to take into account the size of your furry family members.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Decatur

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Decatur, it’s time to incorporate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over wide areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for many years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your additional home automation devices. Are you ready to begin? Dial (256) 305-1902 to consult with a helpful Vivint team member today.