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How Do Motion Detectors Work In San Francisco?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly good grasp of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Sure, they identify activity, but how specifically do they work? Take a moment to discover the technology that drives them and the many sorts of devices you might find. You’ll attain a clearer comprehension of how they work and how you may integrate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Sensing activity can be achieved in several specific ways, but motion detectors are generally placed into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are considered active, as they constantly broadcast transmissions like microwaves and then assess the response time. Motion is indicated when the response time changes. Even though microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that use infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Often found within home security installations, PIR motion detectors perform by detecting changes in the ambient temperature. ​​Basically, the instrument detects what the normal temperature should be within a given area. If there are rapid heat spikes, like an invader moving through the room, the sensor observes it and activates your warning. Since they aren’t actively sending out signals, passive detectors usually utilize less power and are more economical to operate.

Along with active and passive, you may encounter hybrid devices that utilize multiple technologies. These can help reduce false alarms, as every sensor must be triggered before the alarm system goes off. Additional choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are commonly used in more extensive industrial buildings.

How to use San Francisco motion detectors

The chief objective of motion detectors is to spot motion within a specified area, typically up to 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them integrated into outside floodlights or as independent devices within your residence. When movement is sensed, they’ll initiate your alarm and inform your dedicated monitoring team.

But contemporary motion detectors are more adaptable than they’ve been in the past. As a matter of fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart components. For example, they can trigger your linked smart lights to turn on or your surveillance camera to record when motion is noticed. They may even notify your smart thermostat to modify the temperature.

Get immediate updates and alter settings for animals

Another great perk of current motion detectors is that you’ll have instant notifications sent to your cell phone any time the sensor is tripped. If you have animals, you can even circumvent false alarms by adjusting settings to take into account the size of your furry friends.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in San Francisco

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in San Francisco, it’s time to incorporate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover large areas, give you wide-angle detection, and last for years without requiring a new battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your other smart home implements. Are you ready to begin? Contact (415) 969-9484 to talk to a skilled Vivint team member today.