Vivint Authorized Retailer Oakland
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Oakland, Alameda, Berkeley, & Surrounding Areas

How Do Motion Detectors Work In Oakland?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’ve probably got a fairly good grasp of what motion detectors do merely based on their name. Indeed, they identify motion, but how exactly do they work? Take a little time to explore the technology that powers them and the many types of sensors you might come across. You’ll achieve a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you are able to incorporate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology that drives motion detectors?

Detecting activity can be performed in a number of specific ways, but motion detectors are typically classified into either of these categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are deemed active, as they continually transmit transmissions like microwaves and then measure the response time. Activity is signified when the response time changes. While microwave sensors are most often found, you’ll also find active motion detectors that measure sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Frequently found within home security applications, PIR motion detectors work by recognizing variations in the surrounding temperature. ​​Basically, the device notes what the standard temperature is expected to be within a designated area. If there are abrupt increases of heat, like a burglar moving across the space, the detector recognizes it and sets off your alarm system. Since they aren’t continuously sending out signals, passive detectors generally need less power and are more cost-effective to operate.

Along with active and passive, you could find hybrid devices that use more than one technology. These can help minimize false alarms, as every sensor has to be triggered before the alarm system goes off. Additional choices include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are often used in more extensive commercial facilities.

How to incorporate Oakland motion detectors

The chief purpose of motion detectors is to detect movement within a specified area, generally to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them included in outside floodlights or as standalone devices inside your property. When movement is sensed, they’ll initiate your alarm system and notify your professional monitoring agents.

But present-day motion detectors are more functional than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they are able to communicate directly with other smart equipment. For instance, they can prompt your integrated smart lights to turn on or your surveillance camera to record if activity is noticed. They may even notify your smart thermostat to alter the temperature.

Receive instant notifications and adjust settings for animals

One more significant advantage of modern motion detectors is that you’ll get immediate updates delivered to your mobile phone every time the device is tripped. If you have pets, you may even ward off false alarms by adjusting settings to take into account the size of your four-legged companions.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Oakland

Now that you have a greater understanding of how motion detectors work in Oakland, it’s a good time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, provide wide-angle detection, and last for many years without requiring a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your additional home automation tools. Are you excited to start? Contact (510) 281-3999 to converse with a helpful Vivint team member today.