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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Fresno?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly decent grasp of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Indeed, they detect motion, but how precisely do they work? Take a minute to explore the technology behind them and the different types of devices you might come across. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you can integrate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Detecting motion can be performed in several distinct ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily placed into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are considered active, as they continually send out signals like microwaves and then calculate the rate of response. Motion is shown when the time of response changes. While microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also find active motion detectors that utilize infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Often encountered within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors function by identifying shifts in the ambient temperature. ​​In essence, the device learns what the normal temperature is supposed to be within a specified area. If there are rapid spikes of heat, like a trespasser creeping through the space, the detector observes it and sets off your alarm system. Since they don’t continuously transmit signals, passive detectors typically utilize less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

In addition to active and passive, you might discover hybrid devices that use multiple technologies. These can help reduce false alarms, as every sensor must be activated before the alarm sounds. Additional possibilities include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are often employed in bigger commercial or industrial locations.

Ways to use Fresno motion detectors

The primary purpose of motion detectors is to spot motion within a given area, usually to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them incorporated into outdoor floodlights or as freestanding devices within your home. When motion is sensed, they’ll set off your alarm system and notify your dedicated monitoring staff.

But contemporary motion detectors are more functional than at any time before. In fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart devices. For instance, they can signal your linked smart lights to turn on or your surveillance camera to record when movement is recognized. They might even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive instant updates and customize settings for pets

One more significant benefit of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get automatic alerts transmitted to your mobile phone any time the device is triggered. If you have house pets, you are even able to help ward off false alarms by tailoring settings to account for the size of your four-legged friends.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Fresno

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Fresno, it’s time to include them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over big areas, provide wide-angle detection, and last for many years without necessitating a new battery. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other home automation tools. Are you excited to begin? Contact (559) 354-6624 to talk to a knowledgeable Vivint team member today.