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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Texarkana?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly decent understanding of what motion detectors do merely based on their name. Sure, they sense activity, but how exactly do they work? Take a minute to discover the technology behind them and the many kinds of devices you might come across. You’ll achieve a deeper comprehension of how they work and how you can blend them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

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

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

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Commonly found within home security installations, PIR motion detectors work by detecting shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​In essence, the instrument learns what the usual temperature is expected to be within a specified area. If there are instant heat spikes, like an invader creeping across the area, the sensor recognizes it and triggers your alarm system. Since they don’t constantly send out signals, passive detectors usually use less power and are more economical to operate.

In addition to active and passive, you could find hybrid motion detectors that employ a mix of technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as every sensor must be activated before the warning siren sounds. Other alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are frequently utilized in larger commercial spaces.

How to use Texarkana motion detectors

The primary objective of motion detectors is to spot activity within a designated area, usually to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them included in outside floodlights or as standalone devices within the interior of your home. When movement is identified, they’ll initiate your alarm and notify your dedicated monitoring agents.

But contemporary motion detectors are more functional than they’ve been in the past. As a matter of fact, they are able to communicate directly with other smart components. For instance, they can signal your linked smart lights to illuminate or your surveillance device to record whenever motion is detected. They can even notify your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive immediate alerts and adjust settings for pets

Another great benefit of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get alerts transmitted to your cell phone any time the device is tripped. If you have pets, you can even preempt false alarms by tailoring settings to take into account the size of your furry companions.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Texarkana

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Texarkana, it’s a great time to include them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, provide wide-angle capability, and last for many years without requiring a new battery. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other home automation tools. Are you excited to start? Dial (870) 544-4225 to consult with a skilled Vivint representative today.