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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Blacksburg?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You most likely have a reasonable grasp of what motion detectors do solely based on their title. Of course, they sense motion, but how specifically do they work? Take a moment to learn about the technology behind them and the various types of devices you might come across. You’ll gain a clearer appreciation of how they work and how you may integrate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Detecting movement can be performed in several different ways, but motion detectors are generally grouped into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are viewed as active, as they regularly transmit transmissions like microwaves and then assess the response time. Movement is indicated when the response time changes. While microwave sensors are most common, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that use sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors function by detecting shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​In essence, the device notes what the normal temperature is expected to be within a designated area. If there are rapid heat increases, like a trespasser creeping across the area, the sensor takes notice and activates your alarm system. Since they aren’t actively transmitting signals, passive detectors usually utilize less power and are less expensive to run.

Besides active and passive, you might come across hybrid motion detectors that use more than one technology. These can help lessen false alarms, as every sensor has to be tripped before the warning siren is prompted. Additional options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are often employed in bigger industrial facilities.

How to incorporate Blacksburg motion detectors

The chief objective of motion detectors is to detect activity within a designated area, typically as far as 50 feet away. You’ll frequently find them included in outdoor floodlights or as freestanding devices inside your residence. When motion is detected, they’ll trigger your warning siren and advise your professional monitoring agents.

But contemporary motion detectors are more versatile than they’ve been in the past. In fact, they can communicate directly with other smart equipment. For example, if activity is recognized, they can trigger your lights to activate or your video camera to begin recording. They might even signal your smart thermostat to alter the temperature.

Get immediate alerts and alter settings for animals

Another significant perk of modern motion detectors is that you’ll have instant notifications transmitted to your mobile phone any time the device is set off. If you have house pets, you may even prevent false alarms by adjusting settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged family members.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Blacksburg

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Blacksburg, it’s time to incorporate them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, give you wide-angle detection, and last for multiple years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your other home automation tools. Are you prepared to get started? Dial (540) 340-9402 to speak with a helpful Vivint team member today.