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How Do Motion Detectors Work In South Bend?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a reasonable idea of what motion detectors do merely based on their title. Of course, they identify movement, but how exactly do they work? Take a little time to explore the technology behind them and the different sorts of sensors you might encounter. You’ll achieve a deeper understanding of how they work and how you can incorporate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Identifying activity can be performed in a few distinct ways, but motion detectors are typically placed into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are considered active, as they constantly send out signals like microwaves and then assess the response time. Motion is indicated when the return time changes. While microwave sensors are most common, you’ll also discover active motion detectors that use sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Frequently found within home security applications, PIR motion detectors work by recognizing changes in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the component learns what the usual temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are sudden heat increases, like a burglar creeping along the area, the device recognizes it and initiates your alarm. Since they don’t actively emit signals, passive detectors generally consume less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

In addition to passive and active, you might come across hybrid motion sensors that use a mix of technologies. These can help lessen false alarms, as each sensor must be tripped before the alarm is prompted. Other choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are commonly employed in more extensive commercial or industrial buildings.

How to incorporate South Bend motion detectors

The chief aim of motion detectors is to detect movement within a given area, generally as far as 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them integrated into outdoor floodlights or as freestanding devices within your property. When motion is identified, they’ll initiate your alarm and alert your professional monitoring agents.

But contemporary motion detectors are more adaptable than ever before. In fact, they are able to connect directly with other smart devices. To illustrate, they can prompt your linked smart light bulbs to turn on or your surveillance camera to record when movement is detected. They can even notify your smart thermostat to adjust the temperature.

Get immediate alerts and adjust settings for animals

One more tremendous benefit of current motion detectors is that you’ll get automatic alerts sent to your smartphone each time the sensor is triggered. If you have animals, you are even able to help circumvent false alarms by customizing settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged friends.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in South Bend

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in South Bend, it’s a good time to incorporate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over wide areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without requiring a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your other home automation devices. Are you prepared to begin? Contact (574) 601-4641 to consult with a knowledgeable Vivint team member today.