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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Charlottesville?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly good understanding of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Sure, they detect activity, but how precisely do they work? Take a moment to learn about the technology that powers them and the different kinds of devices you might find. You’ll get a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you may incorporate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

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

● Active motion detectors: These devices are considered active, as they continually send out transmissions like microwaves and then measure the time of response. Activity is shown when the return time changes. While microwave sensors are most often found, you’ll also find active motion detectors that utilize sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Commonly seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors perform by discovering shifts in the ambient temperature. ​​Essentially, the component learns what the standard temperature is expected to be within a specified area. If there are instant increases of heat, like a trespasser moving along the space, the sensor recognizes it and sets off your warning. Since they aren’t continuously transmitting signals, passive detectors usually consume less power and are more economical to run.

In addition to passive and active, you may encounter hybrid motion sensors that use multiple technologies. These can help reduce false alarms, as each sensor must be triggered before the warning siren goes off. Additional choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are frequently utilized in larger commercial buildings.

Ways to use Charlottesville motion detectors

The primary aim of motion detectors is to identify motion within a specified area, typically to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them incorporated into outdoor floodlights or as standalone devices within your home. When activity is detected, they’ll activate your warning siren and alert your dedicated monitoring team.

But modern motion detectors are more functional than ever before. In fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart equipment. For instance, they can signal your connected smart light bulbs to illuminate or your surveillance camera to record whenever movement is recognized. They may even signal your smart thermostat to modify the temperature.

Receive automatic notifications and alter settings for animals

Another significant benefit of current motion detectors is that you’ll have immediate updates transmitted to your mobile phone every time the detector is triggered. If you own animals, you may even preempt false alarms by adjusting settings to account for the size of your four-legged family members.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Charlottesville

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Charlottesville, it’s a good time to incorporate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over large areas, offer wide-angle detection, and last for many years without needing a new battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your additional home automation tools. Are you excited to start? Contact (434) 404-5302 to converse with a helpful Vivint representative today.