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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Olympia?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a reasonable grasp of what motion detectors do solely based on their name. Indeed, they sense motion, but how exactly do they work? Take a moment to explore the technology that drives them and the many kinds of devices you might find. You’ll achieve a clearer appreciation of how they work and how you may blend them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Sensing motion can be done in several different ways, but motion detectors are generally classified into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These sensors are viewed as active, as they continually broadcast transmissions like microwaves and then assess the response time. Motion is indicated when the response time changes. Although microwave sensors are most often found, you’ll also find active motion detectors that utilize infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Commonly seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors function by noticing shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​In essence, the instrument notes what the standard temperature is expected to be within a specified area. If there are rapid increases of heat, like a burglar creeping across the space, the detector recognizes it and initiates your warning. Since they aren’t actively transmitting signals, passive detectors usually utilize less power and are more economical to operate.

Besides passive and active, you could encounter hybrid motion sensors that utilize a mix of technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as every sensor has to be triggered before the warning siren is prompted. Additional choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are typically utilized in bigger commercial locations.

How to implement Olympia motion detectors

The main purpose of motion detectors is to detect motion within a specified area, generally as far as 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them integrated into outside floodlights or as independent devices inside your property. When activity is sensed, they’ll set off your alarm and notify your 24/7 monitoring agents.

But present-day motion detectors are more adaptable than at any time before. In fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart equipment. To illustrate, they can signal your connected smart lights to turn on or your video camera to record whenever movement is noticed. They can even signal your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Get instant updates and alter settings for animals

One more significant benefit of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have updates transmitted to your smartphone whenever the detector is tripped. If you own animals, you are even able to help circumvent false alarms by customizing settings to accommodate the size of your furry family members.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Olympia

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Olympia, it’s time to integrate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover big areas, offer wide-angle capability, and last for multiple years without requiring a change of battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your other smart home implements. Are you excited to get started? Call (360) 996-1195 to talk to a helpful Vivint team member today.