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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Columbia?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a pretty good idea of what motion detectors do merely based on their name. Sure, they identify movement, but how exactly do they work? Take a moment to explore the technology that drives them and the various types of devices you might find. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you are able to integrate them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Sensing motion can be done in a few specific ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily classified into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are considered active, as they continually transmit signals like microwaves and then measure the time of response. Movement is signified when the time of response changes. Even though 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 seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors perform by detecting variations in the ambient temperature. ​​Essentially, the device detects what the normal temperature is supposed to be within a designated area. If there are instant heat surges, like a trespasser sneaking across the space, the detector observes it and activates your warning. Since they don’t actively emit signals, passive detectors usually use less power and are more cost-effective to run.

Besides passive and active, you might come across hybrid motion sensors that employ multiple technologies. These can help lessen false alarms, as each sensor must be activated before the warning siren goes off. Other options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are often utilized in bigger industrial spaces.

How to implement Columbia motion detectors

The chief aim of motion detectors is to spot movement within a specified area, usually to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them incorporated into outdoor floodlights or as independent devices inside your home. When movement is noticed, they’ll set off your alarm and inform your professional monitoring staff.

But modern motion detectors are more versatile than they’ve been in the past. In fact, they can connect directly with other smart devices. For instance, they can prompt your linked smart lights to illuminate or your surveillance device to record when movement is noticed. They might even alert your smart thermostat to adjust the temperature.

Get instant notifications and customize settings for animals

One more significant perk of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get automatic updates sent to your mobile phone any time the device is activated. If you have animals, you can even ward off false alarms by customizing settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged friends.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Columbia

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Columbia, it’s a great time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover big areas, offer wide-angle detection, and last for multiple years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your additional home automation tools. Are you prepared to get started? Contact (803) 921-0946 to talk to a skilled Vivint specialist today.