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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Tampa?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You most likely have a reasonable understanding of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Of course, they detect motion, but how specifically do they work? Take a moment to discover the technology that drives them and the many kinds of sensors you might find. You’ll get a better appreciation of how they work and how you can integrate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

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

● Active motion detectors: These devices are deemed active, as they constantly transmit signals like microwaves and then assess the rate of response. Activity is indicated when the time of response changes. Even though 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 seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors work by discovering variations in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the instrument notes what the standard temperature is expected to be within a designated area. If there are sudden heat spikes, like a trespasser moving across the space, the detector recognizes it and initiates your warning. Since they don’t continuously send out signals, passive detectors typically consume less power and are more economical to run.

Along with passive and active, you may encounter hybrid devices that utilize more than one technology. These can help lessen false alarms, as each sensor has to be tripped before the alarm goes off. Additional options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are often used in bigger commercial buildings.

How to implement Tampa motion detectors

The primary purpose of motion detectors is to identify activity within a given area, usually up to 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them included in outside floodlights or as freestanding devices within your residence. When motion is detected, they’ll set off your alarm and alert your 24/7 monitoring team.

But present-day motion detectors are more functional than at any time before. In fact, they are able to connect directly with other smart devices. For instance, they can trigger your connected smart lights to switch on or your surveillance camera to record if movement is recognized. They might even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Get immediate updates and customize settings for animals

One more great advantage of current motion detectors is that you’ll get updates dispatched to your mobile phone every time the device is tripped. If you own house pets, you may even preempt false alarms by adjusting settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged family members.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Tampa

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Tampa, it’s a good time to incorporate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover big areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without needing a battery replacement. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other home automation tools. Are you excited to start? Dial (813) 590-1845 to consult with a helpful Vivint specialist today.