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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Provo?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a pretty good idea of what motion detectors do simply based on their title. Sure, they identify activity, but how specifically do they work? Take a minute to learn about the technology behind them and the various kinds of devices you might encounter. You’ll achieve a better appreciation of how they work and how you can integrate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Sensing movement can be performed in several distinct ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily placed into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These instruments are deemed active, as they constantly send out signals like microwaves and then assess the time of response. Activity is indicated when the return time changes. Even though microwave sensors are most frequently used, you’ll also encounter active motion detectors that use sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually encountered within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors work by detecting variations in the ambient temperature. ​​Essentially, the device detects what the usual temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are instant heat increases, like an intruder skulking along the space, the device takes notice and activates your security alarm. Since they don’t actively emit signals, passive detectors usually consume less power and are less expensive to run.

Besides active and passive, you might come across hybrid devices that use more than one technology. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor must be tripped before the alarm goes off. Other alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are often used in bigger commercial spaces.

How to implement Provo motion detectors

The chief goal of motion detectors is to detect movement within a designated area, generally up to 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them integrated into outdoor floodlights or as freestanding devices within the interior of your residence. When motion is identified, they’ll trigger your warning siren and notify your professional monitoring agents.

But modern motion detectors are more versatile than at any time before. In fact, they are able to interact directly with other smart devices. For instance, they can prompt your connected smart lights to switch on or your surveillance device to record if activity is recognized. They can even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Get instant updates and customize settings for pets

One more significant advantage of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get immediate alerts dispatched to your mobile phone any time the device is activated. If you have pets, you may even preempt false alarms by customizing settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged companions.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Provo

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Provo, it’s a good time to incorporate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors cover wide areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for multiple years without requiring a battery replacement. They’ll also synchronize perfectly with your additional home automation tools. Are you prepared to get started? Contact (385) 455-7233 to talk to a knowledgeable Vivint specialist today.