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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Topeka?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a fairly decent understanding of what motion detectors do merely based on their name. Of course, they sense movement, but how precisely do they work? Take a moment to discover the technology that powers them and the many types of devices you might find. You’ll achieve a clearer understanding of how they work and how you can integrate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

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

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

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Commonly encountered within home security applications, PIR motion detectors operate by identifying variations in the ambient temperature. ​​Essentially, the device detects what the normal temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are instant heat spikes, like a trespasser creeping along the room, the detector takes notice and triggers your security alarm. Since they don’t continuously send out signals, passive detectors generally need less power and are less expensive to run.

In addition to passive and active, you could discover hybrid devices that utilize multiple technologies. These can help lower false alarms, as every sensor has to be tripped before the warning siren goes off. Other alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are often used in larger commercial or industrial buildings.

Ways to use Topeka motion detectors

The primary purpose of motion detectors is to spot motion within a given area, usually to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them included in exterior floodlights or as standalone devices within your residence. When activity is noticed, they’ll trigger your warning siren and inform your dedicated monitoring agents.

But contemporary motion detectors are more functional than they’ve been in the past. As a matter of fact, they are able to communicate directly with other smart equipment. For example, if motion is discovered, they can trigger your lights to turn on or your surveillance device to start recording. They can even signal your smart thermostat to modify the temperature.

Receive instant notifications and adjust settings for furry friends

Another great benefit of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have automatic updates dispatched to your smartphone each time the device is triggered. If you own pets, you may even circumvent false alarms by customizing settings to account for the size of your furry companions.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Topeka

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Topeka, it’s a good time to integrate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover wide areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without requiring a battery replacement. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your additional home automation devices. Are you ready to begin? Call (785) 369-9429 to consult with a skilled Vivint representative today.