Vivint Authorized Retailer Salinas
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Salinas, Santa Cruz, & Surrounding Areas

How Do Motion Detectors Work In Salinas?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a reasonable idea of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Of course, they sense activity, but how precisely do they work? Take a little time to explore the technology behind them and the different types of devices you might encounter. You’ll gain a deeper comprehension of how they work and how you may incorporate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

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

● Active motion detectors: These devices are deemed active, as they regularly transmit signals like microwaves and then measure the response time. Motion is signified when the time of response 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: Regularly found within home security installations, PIR motion detectors operate by discovering shifts in the surrounding temperature. ​​In essence, the component learns what the standard temperature is expected to be within a designated area. If there are instant spikes of heat, like a trespasser creeping along the area, the sensor takes notice and sets off your alarm system. Since they don’t actively transmit signals, passive detectors generally require less power and are less expensive to operate.

Along with passive and active, you might come across hybrid motion detectors that utilize multiple technologies. These can help lower false alarms, as every sensor has to be activated before the alarm system sounds. Additional options include vibration motion detectors and tomographic devices that are typically utilized in bigger commercial or industrial spaces.

How to implement Salinas motion detectors

The chief objective of motion detectors is to spot activity within a designated area, usually as far as 50 feet away. You’ll regularly find them integrated into outdoor floodlights or as freestanding devices within your home. When movement is identified, they’ll activate your alarm and notify your dedicated monitoring agents.

But modern motion detectors are more functional than they’ve been in the past. In fact, they can connect directly with other smart equipment. For instance, if motion is detected, they may trigger your lights to activate or your surveillance camera to begin recording. They can even signal your smart thermostat to modify the temperature.

Get automatic alerts and alter settings for furry friends

One more great advantage of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have automatic updates sent to your mobile phone any time the device is activated. If you have pets, you can even circumvent false alarms by tailoring settings to take into account the size of your four-legged family members.

Customize Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Salinas

Now that you have a better understanding of how motion detectors work in Salinas, it’s time to incorporate them into your fully integrated smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee big areas, give you wide-angle capability, and last for many years without necessitating a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your other smart home implements. Are you ready to start? Contact (831) 400-5196 to talk to a skilled Vivint team member today.