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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Duluth?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a fairly decent idea of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Sure, they identify motion, but how specifically do they work? Take a minute to learn about the technology behind them and the different types of sensors you might find. You’ll achieve a clearer appreciation of how they work and how you may incorporate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Detecting motion can be achieved in several distinct ways, but motion detectors are typically grouped into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are deemed active, as they continually broadcast signals like microwaves and then calculate the response time. Activity is shown when the return time changes. Although 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: Regularly found within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors work by recognizing changes in the ambient temperature. ​​In essence, the component detects what the regular temperature is supposed to be within a designated area. If there are instant spikes of heat, like a burglar moving across the space, the device recognizes it and activates your warning. Since they aren’t continuously broadcasting signals, passive detectors typically require less power and are less expensive to operate.

Besides active and passive, you may come across hybrid devices that use a mix of technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor has to be tripped before the alarm is prompted. Other possibilities include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are commonly utilized in bigger commercial facilities.

How to implement Duluth motion detectors

The primary aim of motion detectors is to spot motion within a designated area, generally up to 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them included in outdoor floodlights or as independent devices within your home. When activity is noticed, they’ll initiate your alarm and advise your 24/7 monitoring team.

But present-day motion detectors are more versatile than ever before. As a matter of fact, they are able to connect directly with other smart equipment. For example, they can prompt your connected smart light bulbs to illuminate or your video camera to record when motion is recognized. They can even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive automatic notifications and alter settings for pets

Another tremendous perk of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get alerts dispatched to your cell phone whenever the device is triggered. If you own animals, you may even circumvent false alarms by tailoring settings to take into account the size of your furry friends.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Duluth

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Duluth, it’s a good time to include them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over large areas, provide wide-angle capability, and last for multiple years without requiring a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your other home automation devices. Are you prepared to start? Call (218) 585-7945 to converse with a helpful Vivint specialist today.