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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Pittsburgh?

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 title. Indeed, they detect motion, but how specifically do they work? Take a moment to discover the technology that powers them and the various kinds of sensors you might come across. You’ll achieve a clearer comprehension of how they work and how you may blend them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Sensing activity can be achieved in a number of specific ways, but motion detectors are usually grouped into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These instruments are viewed as active, as they regularly send out transmissions like microwaves and then measure the response time. Activity is signified when the response time changes. Even though microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that measure infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Regularly found within home security applications, PIR motion detectors operate by noticing shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the component notes what the regular temperature ought to be within a specified area. If there are sudden heat surges, like an intruder moving across the room, the device recognizes it and initiates your warning. Since they aren’t continuously emitting signals, passive detectors usually need less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

Besides passive and active, you might discover hybrid devices that utilize more than one technology. These can help lower false alarms, as every sensor must be triggered before the alarm is prompted. Additional options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are typically utilized in more extensive industrial buildings.

How to use Pittsburgh motion detectors

The primary purpose of motion detectors is to detect movement within a designated area, typically up to 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them incorporated into exterior floodlights or as freestanding devices inside your home. When motion is sensed, they’ll set off your alarm and notify your 24/7 monitoring staff.

But present-day motion detectors are more versatile than ever before. As a matter of fact, they can connect directly with other smart equipment. To illustrate, they can prompt your connected smart lights to illuminate or your surveillance device to record when motion is recognized. They may even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive automatic alerts and alter settings for furry friends

One more tremendous advantage of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get instant updates sent to your cell phone each time the detector is set off. If you own animals, you can even circumvent false alarms by customizing settings to take into account the size of your four-legged friends.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Pittsburgh

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Pittsburgh, it’s time to integrate them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over large areas, give you wide-angle detection, and last for multiple years without needing a new battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your additional smart home implements. Are you prepared to get started? Call (412) 318-9359 to converse with a knowledgeable Vivint team member today.