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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Napa?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a pretty good idea of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Indeed, they identify activity, but how specifically do they work? Take a minute to discover the technology that drives them and the many sorts of devices you might come across. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you can integrate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Detecting movement can be done in a few different ways, but motion detectors are typically grouped into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are viewed as active, as they regularly transmit signals like microwaves and then calculate the time of response. Movement is shown when the return time changes. Even though microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that measure sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Commonly found within home security installations, PIR motion detectors work by recognizing variations in the ambient temperature. ​​In essence, the instrument notes what the normal temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are abrupt surges of heat, like an invader moving along the room, the device recognizes it and sets off your alarm system. Since they don’t actively emit signals, passive detectors usually require less power and are more economical to operate.

Along with active and passive, you could find hybrid devices that use more than one technology. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor has to be tripped before the alarm goes off. Additional alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are commonly utilized in more extensive commercial facilities.

Ways to implement Napa motion detectors

The primary purpose of motion detectors is to detect activity within a given area, typically as far as 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them integrated into outdoor floodlights or as independent devices inside your property. When movement is sensed, they’ll set off your alarm and notify your professional monitoring staff.

But modern motion detectors are more functional than at any time before. In fact, they can connect directly with other smart equipment. To illustrate, if motion is discovered, they may trigger your lights to switch on or your surveillance camera to start recording. They can even alert your smart thermostat to adjust the temperature.

Get automatic notifications and alter settings for furry friends

One more tremendous benefit of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have immediate notifications dispatched to your mobile phone any time the device is activated. If you own animals, you may 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 Napa

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Napa, it’s a good time to integrate them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, give you wide-angle functionality, and last for years without needing a new battery. They’ll also work in perfect unison with your additional smart home implements. Are you prepared to begin? Contact (707) 895-5704 to speak with a helpful Vivint team member today.