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How Do Motion Detectors Work In New York City?

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 name. Sure, they detect motion, but how exactly do they work? Take a little time to explore the technology that drives them and the many kinds of devices you might find. You’ll get a better comprehension of how they work and how you can incorporate them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Detecting motion can be performed in several specific ways, but motion detectors are usually placed into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These instruments are deemed active, as they regularly transmit signals like microwaves and then measure the time of response. Motion is indicated when the time of response changes. Even though microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also discover active motion detectors that measure infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Frequently found within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors operate by noticing changes in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the instrument detects what the normal temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are sudden spikes of heat, like a trespasser sneaking through the area, the detector observes it and triggers your alarm. Since they aren’t actively broadcasting signals, passive detectors usually consume less power and are less expensive to run.

Along with passive and active, you may discover hybrid motion sensors that use a mix of technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor has to be triggered before the warning siren sounds. Additional alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are often utilized in larger industrial locations.

How to implement New York City motion detectors

The primary goal of motion detectors is to spot motion within a given area, typically up to 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them incorporated into outdoor floodlights or as independent devices within the interior of your home. When motion is identified, they’ll initiate your alarm and notify your dedicated monitoring staff.

But present-day motion detectors are more adaptable than ever before. As a matter of fact, they can connect directly with other smart devices. To illustrate, if motion is recognized, they might trigger your smart bulbs to switch on or your surveillance device to begin recording. They may even notify your smart thermostat to alter the temperature.

Get instant alerts and adjust settings for animals

Another tremendous benefit of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll get instant updates delivered to your smartphone whenever the detector is triggered. If you have house pets, you are even able to help ward off false alarms by adjusting settings to take into account the size of your four-legged friends.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in New York City

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in New York City, it’s a great time to integrate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over large areas, provide wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without requiring a change of battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your additional home automation tools. Are you prepared to begin? Dial (332) 877-9062 to talk to a helpful Vivint team member today.