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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Long Beach?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a fairly decent understanding of what motion detectors do solely based on their title. Indeed, they detect activity, but how specifically do they work? Take a little time to learn about the technology behind them and the many types of sensors you might come across. You’ll attain a clearer appreciation of how they work and how you can incorporate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Sensing motion can be done in a few distinct ways, but motion detectors are typically grouped into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These sensors are considered active, as they constantly broadcast signals like microwaves and then calculate the response time. Activity is indicated when the return time changes. Although microwave sensors are most frequently used, you’ll also find active motion detectors that use sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually encountered within home security installations, PIR motion detectors operate by identifying variations in the surrounding temperature. ​​Basically, the instrument learns what the regular temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are abrupt spikes of heat, like a burglar skulking along the area, the detector takes notice and initiates your security alarm. Since they don’t actively transmit signals, passive detectors generally need less power and are less expensive to operate.

Along with active and passive, you might discover hybrid motion sensors that utilize multiple technologies. These can help lower false alarms, as every sensor has to be activated before the alarm system goes off. Additional choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are frequently utilized in larger commercial spaces.

Ways to incorporate Long Beach motion detectors

The chief purpose of motion detectors is to detect activity within a given area, generally to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them integrated into outside floodlights or as independent devices within the interior of your home. When movement is detected, they’ll set off your warning siren and alert your professional monitoring team.

But modern motion detectors are more versatile than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they can interact directly with other smart equipment. For instance, if activity is discovered, they might trigger your lighting to turn on or your video camera to begin recording. They can even alert your smart thermostat to alter the temperature.

Receive instant updates and alter settings for pets

One more significant perk of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have alerts delivered to your smartphone each time the sensor is activated. If you own house pets, you can even circumvent false alarms by adjusting settings to take into account the size of your four-legged friends.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Long Beach

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Long Beach, it’s time to include them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over big areas, offer wide-angle capability, and last for years without requiring a battery replacement. They’ll also work in harmony with your other smart home implements. Are you excited to start? Call (562) 376-5457 to consult with a helpful Vivint team member today.