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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Kansas City?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a reasonable grasp of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Of course, they detect motion, but how precisely do they work? Take a moment to explore the technology that powers them and the many types of devices you might come across. You’ll achieve a better appreciation of how they work and how you may integrate them into your advanced smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Sensing activity can be done in a number of distinct ways, but motion detectors are generally grouped into either of these categories - active or passive.

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

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Frequently seen within home defense systems, PIR motion detectors work by noticing changes in the ambient temperature. ​​In essence, the device detects what the standard temperature should be within a specified area. If there are abrupt spikes of heat, like an intruder sneaking across the space, the detector observes it and activates your warning. Since they aren’t constantly transmitting signals, passive detectors generally require less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

Along with active and passive, you may find hybrid motion detectors that utilize more than one technology. These can help lower false alarms, as every sensor has to be triggered before the alarm sounds. Other choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are typically used in more extensive commercial or industrial spaces.

How to incorporate Kansas City motion detectors

The chief objective of motion detectors is to spot motion within a designated area, usually as far as 50 feet away. You’ll commonly find them included in outside floodlights or as standalone devices within your property. When activity is detected, they’ll trigger your alarm system and inform your dedicated monitoring agents.

But modern motion detectors are more adaptable than ever before. As a matter of fact, they can communicate directly with other smart equipment. To illustrate, they can trigger your connected smart light bulbs to illuminate or your video camera to record whenever movement is noticed. They might even signal your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive instant alerts and adjust settings for furry friends

Another tremendous advantage of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get automatic alerts delivered to your smartphone each time the sensor is set off. If you have house pets, you are even able to help prevent false alarms by tailoring settings to take into account the size of your furry companions.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Kansas City

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Kansas City, it’s time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee large areas, offer wide-angle capability, and last for many years without requiring a battery replacement. They’ll also work in harmony with your other home automation tools. Are you prepared to start? Dial (816) 357-9576 to speak with a helpful Vivint team member today.