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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Chicago?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a reasonable grasp of what motion detectors do solely based on their title. Sure, they identify activity, but how exactly do they work? Take a minute to discover the technology that powers them and the many sorts of sensors you might come across. You’ll gain a clearer comprehension of how they work and how you are able to blend them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Identifying motion can be done in a few specific ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily placed into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are deemed active, as they continually transmit transmissions like microwaves and then calculate the response time. Activity is signified when the return time changes. While microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also find active motion detectors that utilize infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Frequently seen within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors operate by discovering changes in the surrounding temperature. ​​Basically, the component learns what the standard temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are instant spikes of heat, like a trespasser moving through the space, the sensor takes notice and triggers your security alarm. Since they don’t actively send out signals, passive detectors generally need less power and are more economical to operate.

In addition to active and passive, you may encounter hybrid motion sensors that utilize a mix of technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as every sensor must be triggered before the warning siren goes off. Other possibilities include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are typically used in larger commercial buildings.

Ways to incorporate Chicago motion detectors

The primary aim of motion detectors is to detect activity within a designated area, usually as far as 50 feet away. You’ll frequently find them included in exterior floodlights or as independent devices inside your property. When movement is sensed, they’ll activate your warning siren and alert your 24/7 monitoring staff.

But present-day motion detectors are more functional than they’ve been in the past. In fact, they are able to communicate directly with other smart devices. To illustrate, if activity is recognized, they may trigger your smart bulbs to switch on or your surveillance camera to commence recording. They can even alert your smart thermostat to alter the temperature.

Get automatic notifications and alter settings for animals

Another significant perk of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get alerts dispatched to your cell phone whenever the sensor is triggered. If you have pets, you can even circumvent false alarms by customizing settings to accommodate the size of your furry companions.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Chicago

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Chicago, it’s a great time to include them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover wide areas, provide wide-angle detection, and last for many years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your additional home automation devices. Are you ready to start? Call (312) 626-4802 to consult with a helpful Vivint specialist today.