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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Killeen?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You most likely have a fairly decent grasp of what motion detectors do solely based on their name. Of course, they identify movement, but how specifically do they work? Take a little time to explore the technology that powers them and the many types of sensors you might find. You’ll gain a clearer appreciation of how they work and how you can blend them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Detecting motion can be performed in a number of different ways, but motion detectors are generally classified into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are viewed as active, as they constantly transmit signals like microwaves and then calculate the time of response. Movement is indicated when the time of response changes. While microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that measure sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Regularly seen within home security installations, PIR motion detectors operate by noticing shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​In essence, the instrument learns what the normal temperature is expected to be within a specified area. If there are abrupt heat surges, like an invader skulking along the area, the sensor observes it and initiates your alarm. Since they don’t actively send out signals, passive detectors usually consume less power and are less expensive to run.

Besides active and passive, you might encounter hybrid motion detectors that utilize more than one technology. These can help reduce false alarms, as every sensor must be activated before the warning siren is prompted. Other options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are typically employed in more extensive industrial locations.

How to incorporate Killeen motion detectors

The chief objective of motion detectors is to detect movement within a designated area, generally to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them integrated into outside floodlights or as independent devices within the interior of your property. When motion is sensed, they’ll activate your warning siren and inform your dedicated monitoring staff.

But contemporary motion detectors are more versatile than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they can connect directly with other smart devices. To illustrate, they can prompt your connected smart light bulbs to turn on or your surveillance device to record if activity is noticed. They may even alert your smart thermostat to adjust the temperature.

Get instant alerts and adjust settings for furry friends

One more great advantage of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get automatic alerts delivered to your mobile phone each time the device is activated. If you own house pets, you are even able to help circumvent false alarms by adjusting settings to account for the size of your furry friends.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Killeen

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Killeen, it’s a great time to include them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, offer wide-angle capability, and last for multiple years without necessitating a new battery. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other home automation tools. Are you prepared to start? Call (254) 351-0495 to consult with a helpful Vivint specialist today.