How Do Motion Detectors Work In Arlington?

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

What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Sensing motion can be done in a number of distinct ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily grouped into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are viewed as active, as they regularly broadcast signals like microwaves and then measure the rate of response. Activity is shown when the time of response changes. While microwave sensors are most frequently used, you’ll also discover active motion detectors that measure sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually seen within home security installations, PIR motion detectors operate by discovering changes in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the device learns what the regular temperature is supposed to be within a given area. If there are abrupt surges of heat, like a burglar creeping through the space, the detector recognizes it and activates your alarm. Since they don’t constantly emit signals, passive detectors typically utilize less power and are more economical to run.

Along with passive and active, you might come across hybrid motion sensors that utilize more than one technology. These can help minimize false alarms, as every sensor has to be tripped before the warning siren is prompted. Other possibilities include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are commonly employed in more extensive commercial facilities.

How to use Arlington motion detectors

The main purpose of motion detectors is to detect motion within a specified area, typically up to 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them included in outside floodlights or as freestanding devices within your residence. When motion is sensed, they’ll set off your warning siren and inform your professional monitoring staff.

But modern motion detectors are more adaptable than at any time before. In fact, they are able to connect directly with other smart equipment. For example, they can trigger your connected smart light bulbs to illuminate or your surveillance camera to record when movement is detected. They may even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive automatic notifications and adjust settings for pets

Another great advantage of current motion detectors is that you’ll get alerts dispatched to your cell phone any time the sensor is tripped. If you have animals, you are even able to help circumvent false alarms by tailoring settings to take into account the size of your furry family members.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Arlington

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Arlington, it’s a good time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover big areas, offer wide-angle capability, and last for years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your additional home automation tools. Are you ready to start? Dial (703) 791-1576 to speak with a knowledgeable Vivint team member today.