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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Charleston?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You most likely have a reasonable understanding of what motion detectors do solely based on their title. Of course, they sense motion, but how precisely do they work? Take a moment to learn about the technology that drives them and the various types of devices you might encounter. You’ll attain a better understanding of how they work and how you are able to integrate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Identifying activity can be done in several specific ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily classified into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are viewed as active, as they constantly broadcast signals like microwaves and then measure the rate of response. Motion is indicated when the time of response changes. Even though microwave sensors are most often found, you’ll also find active motion detectors that measure infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Often encountered within home security installations, PIR motion detectors perform by detecting changes in the ambient temperature. ​​Essentially, the component detects what the normal temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are abrupt surges of heat, like a trespasser sneaking along the room, the detector recognizes it and activates your alarm. Since they don’t constantly emit signals, passive detectors typically consume less power and are less expensive to run.

In addition to passive and active, you may encounter hybrid devices that utilize more than one technology. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor has to be tripped before the warning siren is prompted. Additional possibilities include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are commonly used in larger industrial facilities.

How to use Charleston motion detectors

The chief purpose of motion detectors is to spot activity within a given area, generally as far as 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them included in outdoor floodlights or as independent devices within your property. When activity is noticed, they’ll set off your alarm and alert your dedicated monitoring staff.

But present-day motion detectors are more adaptable than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart components. For instance, they can prompt your integrated smart lights to illuminate or your video camera to record if activity is detected. They may even signal your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive instant updates and adjust settings for pets

Another great perk of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get immediate notifications delivered to your smartphone whenever the device is set off. If you own animals, you can even preempt false alarms by adjusting settings to take into account the size of your four-legged family members.

Design 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 a great time to integrate them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover wide areas, provide wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without necessitating a battery replacement. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other smart home implements. Are you excited to get started? Call (843) 892-5638 to converse with a skilled Vivint specialist today.