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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Charleston?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a fairly decent understanding of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Sure, they identify motion, but how precisely do they work? Take a minute to discover the technology that drives them and the different kinds of devices you might come across. You’ll get a deeper comprehension of how they work and how you can blend them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Identifying movement can be achieved in several distinct ways, but motion detectors are generally placed into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These instruments are considered active, as they continually broadcast signals like microwaves and then assess the time of response. Motion is shown when the time of response changes. While microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also discover active motion detectors that use infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors function by recognizing variations in the surrounding temperature. ​​In essence, the instrument detects what the regular temperature is supposed to be within a specified area. If there are rapid increases of heat, like a burglar creeping through the room, the detector recognizes it and activates your security alarm. Since they don’t constantly transmit signals, passive detectors generally need less power and are more economical to run.

In addition to active and passive, you might come across hybrid motion detectors that employ multiple technologies. These can help lessen false alarms, as each sensor must be activated before the warning siren sounds. Other options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are frequently employed in larger commercial facilities.

Ways to implement Charleston motion detectors

The main purpose of motion detectors is to identify activity within a designated area, usually up to 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them incorporated into outdoor floodlights or as independent devices within your property. When motion is detected, they’ll initiate your alarm system and advise your professional monitoring agents.

But present-day motion detectors are more adaptable than ever before. In fact, they can communicate directly with other smart devices. To illustrate, if motion is discovered, they can trigger your lighting to activate or your surveillance camera to commence recording. They might even alert your smart thermostat to adjust the temperature.

Receive automatic updates and adjust settings for animals

One more great advantage of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get alerts dispatched to your cell phone every time the sensor is set off. If you have pets, you can even ward off false alarms by adjusting settings to take into account the size of your furry friends.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Charleston

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Charleston, it’s time to include them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover wide areas, provide wide-angle functionality, and last for many years without requiring a battery replacement. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other home automation tools. Are you prepared to begin? Contact (304) 902-6244 to converse with a knowledgeable Vivint representative today.