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How Do Motion Detectors Work In San Bernardino?

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. Sure, they identify activity, but how precisely do they work? Take a little time to discover the technology that powers them and the different types of sensors you might find. You’ll achieve a clearer understanding of how they work and how you are able to blend them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Identifying motion can be performed in a few distinct ways, but motion detectors are usually placed into one of two categories - active or passive.

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

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Commonly found within home security applications, PIR motion detectors function by detecting shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​Basically, the device learns what the normal temperature should be within a specified area. If there are rapid surges of heat, like an invader moving across the area, the sensor takes notice and activates your alarm. Since they aren’t constantly sending out signals, passive detectors typically consume less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

In addition to passive and active, you might find hybrid devices that use a mix of technologies. These can help lessen false alarms, as each sensor has to be triggered before the alarm system sounds. Other possibilities include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are commonly used in more extensive industrial buildings.

How to incorporate San Bernardino motion detectors

The primary objective of motion detectors is to identify motion within a designated area, usually as far as 50 feet away. You’ll frequently find them included in outdoor floodlights or as independent devices within the interior of your property. When movement is detected, they’ll activate your alarm and notify your dedicated monitoring team.

But contemporary motion detectors are more adaptable than they’ve been in the past. As a matter of fact, they are able to connect directly with other smart equipment. For example, if movement is detected, they can trigger your lights to turn on or your surveillance camera to begin recording. They can even notify your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive instant notifications and customize settings for animals

One more great advantage of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get updates transmitted to your cell phone each time the sensor is set off. If you own animals, you are even able to help circumvent false alarms by tailoring settings to account for the size of your furry family members.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in San Bernardino

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in San Bernardino, it’s a good time to include them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee big areas, give you wide-angle functionality, and last for many years without needing a new battery. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other smart home implements. Are you ready to start? Dial (909) 324-3685 to consult with a skilled Vivint team member today.