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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Des Moines?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a fairly good understanding of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Sure, they identify activity, but how precisely do they work? Take a moment to learn about the technology that powers them and the different types of devices you might encounter. You’ll attain a better understanding of how they work and how you can incorporate them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Identifying motion can be performed in a number of different ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily classified into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are considered active, as they regularly transmit signals like microwaves and then assess the response time. Motion is indicated when the time of response changes. Even though microwave sensors are most often found, you’ll also find active motion detectors that utilize sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Frequently encountered within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors work by noticing variations in the surrounding temperature. ​​Basically, the instrument learns what the standard temperature is expected to be within a designated area. If there are instant heat increases, like a trespasser creeping along the area, the sensor recognizes it and sets off your alarm system. Since they don’t constantly send out signals, passive detectors typically consume less power and are more economical to run.

Besides passive and active, you could find hybrid motion detectors that utilize a mix of technologies. These can help reduce false alarms, as each sensor has to be activated before the warning siren is prompted. Additional choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are commonly employed in larger industrial facilities.

Ways to implement Des Moines motion detectors

The main purpose of motion detectors is to spot motion within a designated area, generally up to 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them included in outdoor floodlights or as freestanding devices within your residence. When motion is identified, they’ll initiate your warning siren and advise your dedicated monitoring team.

But modern 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 components. To illustrate, if motion is discovered, they may trigger your lights to turn on or your surveillance camera to commence recording. They may even signal your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive immediate notifications and adjust settings for animals

Another significant advantage of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have updates delivered to your mobile phone each time the device is triggered. If you have house pets, you may even ward off false alarms by tailoring settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged friends.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Des Moines

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Des Moines, it’s time to include them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, give you wide-angle capability, and last for many years without requiring a change of battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your other smart home implements. Are you excited to begin? Contact (515) 972-5232 to converse with a skilled Vivint team member today.