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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Salem?

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. Sure, they detect motion, but how specifically do they work? Take a moment to learn about the technology that powers them and the various sorts of sensors you might come across. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you are able to integrate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Identifying motion can be performed in a number of distinct ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily grouped into either of these categories - active or passive.

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

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Often encountered within home security applications, PIR motion detectors operate by identifying variations in the ambient temperature. ​​In essence, the instrument learns what the usual temperature is expected to be within a specified area. If there are sudden heat spikes, like a trespasser sneaking across the space, the sensor recognizes it and initiates your alarm. Since they don’t continuously send out signals, passive detectors typically utilize less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

In addition to passive and active, you may discover hybrid motion detectors that utilize multiple technologies. These can help reduce false alarms, as every sensor has to be tripped before the alarm system sounds. Other alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are typically employed in more extensive commercial or industrial facilities.

How to incorporate Salem motion detectors

The chief goal of motion detectors is to spot movement within a designated area, typically as far as 50 feet away. You’ll frequently find them incorporated into outside floodlights or as independent devices within your property. When activity is detected, they’ll trigger your alarm and notify your 24/7 monitoring team.

But modern motion detectors are more versatile than ever before. In fact, they can connect directly with other smart devices. For instance, they can trigger your linked smart lights to illuminate or your surveillance device to record if motion is noticed. They may even notify your smart thermostat to alter the temperature.

Receive immediate alerts and adjust settings for animals

Another significant perk of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get updates delivered to your smartphone every time the detector is set off. If you own pets, you may even preempt false alarms by adjusting settings to account for the size of your four-legged companions.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Salem

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Salem, it’s time to include them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover wide areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for many years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your additional home automation tools. Are you excited to get started? Call (503) 994-1230 to converse with a knowledgeable Vivint specialist today.