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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Houston?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly good grasp of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Of course, they sense movement, but how exactly do they work? Take a little time to discover the technology that powers them and the many kinds of devices you might find. You’ll get a better understanding of how they work and how you can blend them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Detecting activity can be performed in a number of specific ways, but motion detectors are usually placed into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These sensors are deemed active, as they continually broadcast transmissions like microwaves and then calculate the rate of response. Movement is signified when the time of response changes. Even though microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that measure sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors function by discovering changes in the surrounding temperature. ​​In essence, the device notes what the usual temperature ought to be within a designated area. If there are instant spikes of heat, like a burglar moving along the room, the device observes it and triggers your alarm. Since they don’t continuously transmit signals, passive detectors usually need less power and are less expensive to operate.

Besides passive and active, you may discover hybrid motion sensors that use a mix of technologies. These can help lessen false alarms, as each sensor has to be tripped before the alarm goes off. Additional alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are frequently used in more extensive industrial facilities.

Ways to use Houston motion detectors

The primary objective of motion detectors is to detect motion within a given area, generally to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them included in outdoor floodlights or as independent devices inside your residence. When movement is noticed, they’ll initiate your alarm and alert your 24/7 monitoring team.

But modern motion detectors are more adaptable than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they are able to connect directly with other smart devices. For example, they can signal your connected smart light bulbs to switch on or your surveillance device to record if motion is detected. They may even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive immediate notifications and adjust settings for furry friends

One more significant advantage of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get instant updates delivered to your cell phone each time the sensor is set off. If you own house pets, you are even able to help circumvent false alarms by tailoring settings to account for the size of your furry friends.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Houston

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Houston, it’s time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover wide areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without needing a new battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your additional smart home implements. Are you excited to get started? Call (713) 597-3506 to converse with a skilled Vivint team member today.