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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Ithaca?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly decent grasp of what motion detectors do merely based on their title. Sure, they detect activity, but how exactly do they work? Take a moment to explore the technology that powers them and the various types of sensors you might come across. You’ll attain a better comprehension of how they work and how you may blend them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Identifying motion can be performed in several different ways, but motion detectors are generally placed into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These sensors are viewed as active, as they regularly broadcast transmissions like microwaves and then assess the time of response. Activity is signified when the time of response changes. Although microwave sensors are most common, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that measure infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Regularly found within home security installations, PIR motion detectors perform by discovering shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the component detects what the standard temperature ought to be within a designated area. If there are sudden spikes of heat, like an invader creeping across the area, the device observes it and activates your warning. Since they don’t constantly emit signals, passive detectors usually need less power and are less expensive to run.

Along with passive and active, you might discover hybrid devices that employ multiple technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor has to be triggered before the alarm sounds. Additional options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are typically used in larger industrial buildings.

Ways to incorporate Ithaca motion detectors

The primary objective of motion detectors is to identify movement within a given area, usually to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them integrated into outside floodlights or as standalone devices within your home. When motion is sensed, they’ll initiate your alarm and advise your professional monitoring agents.

But present-day motion detectors are more adaptable than at any time before. In fact, they can connect directly with other smart devices. For example, they can trigger your linked smart lights to switch on or your surveillance device to record when activity is recognized. They can even signal your smart thermostat to adjust the temperature.

Receive automatic notifications and adjust settings for pets

One more great perk of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get automatic notifications transmitted to your smartphone every time the device is triggered. If you have animals, you are even able to help ward off false alarms by adjusting settings to take into account the size of your four-legged family members.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Ithaca

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Ithaca, it’s a great time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over large areas, give you wide-angle detection, and last for multiple years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your additional home automation devices. Are you ready to begin? Dial (607) 600-9658 to consult with a skilled Vivint team member today.