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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Detroit?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a fairly decent grasp of what motion detectors do solely based on their name. Of course, they sense motion, but how precisely do they work? Take a moment to explore the technology behind them and the different types of devices you might find. You’ll gain a better understanding of how they work and how you may incorporate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Sensing activity can be done in a few specific ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily grouped into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These instruments are deemed active, as they constantly broadcast signals like microwaves and then measure the rate of response. Movement is shown when the time of response changes. Even though microwave sensors are most common, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that utilize infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually encountered within home security applications, PIR motion detectors function by discovering variations in the ambient temperature. ​​Basically, the device detects what the standard temperature is supposed to be within a designated area. If there are instant surges of heat, like a trespasser creeping through the area, the sensor recognizes it and initiates your security alarm. Since they don’t continuously send out signals, passive detectors generally require less power and are more cost-effective to run.

Besides active and passive, you could come across hybrid motion sensors that employ a mix of technologies. These can help reduce false alarms, as every sensor has to be tripped before the alarm system is prompted. Other choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are frequently employed in larger industrial buildings.

Ways to implement Detroit motion detectors

The primary purpose of motion detectors is to detect activity within a given area, usually up to 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them included in exterior floodlights or as independent devices within the interior of your property. When movement is identified, they’ll activate your alarm and alert your 24/7 monitoring staff.

But modern motion detectors are more functional than they’ve been in the past. As a matter of fact, they are able to connect directly with other smart devices. For instance, they can trigger your linked smart lights to turn on or your video camera to record when activity is recognized. They might even alert your smart thermostat to modify the temperature.

Receive instant alerts and alter settings for pets

One more great perk of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have instant updates transmitted to your mobile phone whenever the detector is tripped. If you own house pets, you may even prevent false alarms by customizing settings to account for the size of your furry friends.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Detroit

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Detroit, it’s a good time to integrate them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, give you wide-angle detection, and last for many years without requiring a change of battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your additional smart home implements. Are you excited to get started? Contact (313) 766-2527 to speak with a skilled Vivint team member today.