Vivint Authorized Retailer Kennewick
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Kennewick & Surrounding Areas

How Do Motion Detectors Work In Kennewick?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You most likely have a fairly good understanding of what motion detectors do merely based on their name. Indeed, they detect activity, but how exactly do they work? Take a little time to learn about the technology that powers them and the many types of devices you might come across. You’ll achieve a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you can integrate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology that powers motion detectors?

Detecting motion can be done in several distinct ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily classified into either of these two categories - active or passive.

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

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Regularly found within home security applications, PIR motion detectors perform by noticing variations in the ambient temperature. ​​Basically, the instrument notes what the usual temperature ought to be within a specified area. If there are instant heat increases, like an intruder skulking across the area, the sensor observes it and initiates your warning. Since they don’t constantly emit signals, passive detectors usually use less power and are less expensive to operate.

In addition to active and passive, you may discover hybrid motion sensors that employ a mix of technologies. These can help lower false alarms, as each sensor has to be activated before the warning siren is prompted. Other choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are typically used in larger commercial or industrial facilities.

Ways to implement Kennewick motion detectors

The primary goal of motion detectors is to spot activity within a given area, generally to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them included in outside floodlights or as standalone devices within your home. When motion is noticed, they’ll activate your alarm and inform your dedicated monitoring agents.

But modern motion detectors are more versatile than ever before. As a matter of fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart devices. For instance, they can signal your integrated smart light bulbs to turn on or your surveillance camera to record when motion is noticed. They can even signal your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Get instant notifications and adjust settings for furry friends

One more significant advantage of current motion detectors is that you’ll get automatic updates dispatched to your cell phone each time the sensor is triggered. If you have pets, you may even ward off false alarms by tailoring settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged friends.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Kennewick

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Kennewick, it’s time to incorporate them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over large areas, give you wide-angle detection, and last for years without needing a new battery. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your other home automation devices. Are you excited to get started? Call (509) 794-3375 to converse with a knowledgeable Vivint specialist today.