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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Lawrence?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly decent grasp of what motion detectors do solely based on their title. Indeed, they sense activity, but how exactly do they work? Take a minute to explore the technology that drives them and the different kinds of devices you might come across. You’ll get a clearer appreciation of how they work and how you are able to incorporate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Detecting activity can be done in several specific ways, but motion detectors are typically classified into one of two categories - active or passive.

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

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Often encountered within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors function by recognizing changes in the ambient temperature. ​​Basically, the device learns what the regular temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are abrupt heat surges, like a trespasser moving along the area, the device observes it and initiates your alarm. Since they don’t constantly emit signals, passive detectors generally utilize less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

In addition to passive and active, you could come across hybrid motion detectors that utilize multiple technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as every sensor must be tripped before the alarm system sounds. Other choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are typically utilized in larger commercial or industrial buildings.

How to implement Lawrence motion detectors

The main goal of motion detectors is to identify activity within a specified area, usually as far as 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them integrated into exterior floodlights or as freestanding devices within your property. When activity is detected, they’ll set off your alarm system and advise your dedicated monitoring agents.

But present-day motion detectors are more versatile than they’ve been in the past. As a matter of fact, they can connect directly with other smart components. To illustrate, they can prompt your connected smart light bulbs to turn on or your surveillance device to record if activity is noticed. They might even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive instant alerts and alter settings for pets

One more significant perk of current motion detectors is that you’ll have immediate alerts sent to your cell phone each time the sensor is tripped. If you have pets, you may even ward off false alarms by customizing settings to take into account the size of your four-legged companions.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Lawrence

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Lawrence, it’s time to include them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee big areas, give you wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without requiring a battery replacement. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other home automation devices. Are you ready to start? Dial (785) 829-4689 to speak with a skilled Vivint team member today.