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How Do Motion Detectors Work In San Jose ?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly decent understanding of what motion detectors do merely based on their name. Sure, they identify motion, but how precisely do they work? Take a minute to discover the technology behind them and the many types of devices you might find. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you may blend them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Detecting activity can be achieved in a few distinct ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily classified into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are deemed active, as they continually send out transmissions like microwaves and then measure the response time. Motion is indicated when the time of response changes. Even though microwave sensors are most often found, you’ll also discover active motion detectors that measure sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Often encountered within home security installations, PIR motion detectors function by detecting shifts in the ambient temperature. ​​Basically, the component detects what the usual temperature is expected to be within a given area. If there are abrupt increases of heat, like an intruder moving across the space, the device takes notice and activates your alarm. Since they don’t actively send out signals, passive detectors typically consume less power and are more economical to run.

In addition to active and passive, you might come across hybrid devices that employ a mix of technologies. These can help minimize false alarms, as each sensor has to be triggered before the warning siren is prompted. Other options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are often employed in larger commercial facilities.

How to use San Jose motion detectors

The chief objective of motion detectors is to spot movement within a given area, usually to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them included in outdoor floodlights or as freestanding devices within the interior of your property. When activity is noticed, they’ll activate your alarm and notify your 24/7 monitoring agents.

But contemporary motion detectors are more functional than they’ve been in the past. In fact, they can interact directly with other smart equipment. To illustrate, they can trigger your connected smart light bulbs to turn on or your surveillance device to record whenever movement is noticed. They can even signal your smart thermostat to modify the temperature.

Get automatic notifications and adjust settings for furry friends

Another significant benefit of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get immediate notifications dispatched to your mobile phone any time the detector is activated. If you have animals, you can even ward off false alarms by tailoring settings to accommodate the size of your four-legged companions.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in San Jose

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in San Jose , it’s a good time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over wide areas, give you wide-angle capability, and last for many years without requiring a battery replacement. They’ll also work in harmony with your other home automation devices. Are you prepared to start? Contact (408) 790-0318 to consult with a skilled Vivint team member today.