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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Asheville?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You most likely have a fairly decent idea of what motion detectors do simply based on their title. Indeed, they identify movement, but how exactly do they work? Take a moment to explore the technology behind them and the various sorts of sensors you might find. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how they work and how you may incorporate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Detecting motion can be performed in a few specific ways, but motion detectors are generally grouped into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are deemed active, as they regularly broadcast transmissions like microwaves and then assess the response time. Motion is indicated when the return time changes. While microwave sensors are most frequently used, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that use infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually found within home security installations, PIR motion detectors perform by identifying changes in the ambient temperature. ​​Essentially, the device notes what the normal temperature is supposed to be within a designated area. If there are instant heat increases, like a burglar creeping along the space, the detector takes notice and initiates your alarm system. Since they don’t continuously transmit signals, passive detectors usually need less power and are less expensive to operate.

Besides active and passive, you may come across hybrid motion sensors that use more than one technology. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor must be triggered before the alarm sounds. Additional options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are commonly utilized in larger commercial or industrial facilities.

Ways to use Asheville motion detectors

The primary purpose of motion detectors is to detect motion within a given area, usually as far as 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them incorporated into exterior floodlights or as freestanding devices within your residence. When movement is identified, they’ll trigger your warning siren and advise your professional monitoring staff.

But present-day motion detectors are more functional than ever before. In fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart devices. For example, they can prompt your connected smart lights to switch on or your surveillance device to record when motion is recognized. They might even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Get immediate notifications and customize settings for animals

One more great advantage of current motion detectors is that you’ll have immediate notifications dispatched to your mobile phone whenever the sensor is set off. If you own house pets, you are even able to help prevent false alarms by tailoring settings to account for the size of your four-legged family members.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Asheville

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Asheville, it’s a good time to integrate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over wide areas, give you wide-angle functionality, and last for years without requiring a new battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your other smart home implements. Are you prepared to start? Dial (828) 571-7175 to consult with a knowledgeable Vivint representative today.