A motion sensor is an important part of any home security system since it can detect any suspicious behavior in your home based on any needless movement. A motion sensor employs one or more technologies to determine if there is unwelcome movement in your home. When it detects suspicious movement, it sends a signal to the main control panel, which then sends a signal to the monitoring center. This will notify you if your home is in threat of security.
What is the purpose of a motion sensor?
The primary function of a motion sensor is to detect any intruder and then deliver an appropriate alarm to you so that you may take proper action. So, if you’re not at home and can’t keep an eye on your security system, your sensors will work to send information to your main panel. To take appropriate action, you can attach these to alarms or a camera. For added security, install your motion sensors near windows and doors.
A motion sensor can be used in a variety of ways
If you have teenagers or children and are unsure whether they will return home before curfew, your motion sensor can inform you. Working parents find it incredibly difficult to balance their careers and their children’s discipline. If you’re having trouble with this, a motion sensor might be the answer.
If you install motion sensors near your main door and connect them to your doorbell, they can play a big role. You can choose a motion detection range, and when a visitor approaches your door within that range, the doorbell will automatically ring.
If you have smaller children and are concerned that they will enter places of the house that are potentially dangerous for them, such as the kitchen, basement, or medicine cabinet, you can install motion sensors in these areas to warn you when they enter.
You may also use motion sensors to control your lights and fans. When there is no motion detected in a room, the lights and fans will turn off automatically, saving a lot of energy. As a result, your electricity expenses will be lower.
You don’t want your pets in specific areas of the house if you have them. Pets are a big responsibility, and their health is just as vital as their owners’.
What types of motion sensors are there?
Sensors that detect infrared light passively
A passive infrared sensor, as the name suggests, detects infrared wavelengths. Because humans emit infrared rays as a result of their body heat, these motion sensors can detect temperature variations. It is the most common form of motion sensor used in homes for security purposes. Any potential dangers are identified, and you are warned as quickly as possible so that you can take appropriate action. Another advantage of these sensors is that they produce a passive grid in their immediate surroundings. The levels of infrared energy fluctuate when it detects the movement of an object that blocks several grid zones, leading the motion sensor to trigger an alarm.
Microwave
These sensors can detect the reflections formed by moving objects thanks to the microwave pulses they send out. These motion sensors have a significant benefit over infrared motion sensors in that they cover a large region. They are, however, extremely susceptible to electrical interference and might be costly.
Motion sensors with two technologies
While the motion sensors listed above only use one form of detection, a dual technology motion sensor employs multiple detection methods. These aid in the reduction of false alarms. A passive infrared sensor and a microwave sensor may be combined in a dual technology sensor. These sensors operate on a spectrum that ranges from passive to active. While many sensors occasionally produce false warnings, a dual technology sensor reduces the number of false signals. Because two sensors must trip in order for an alarm to ring and alert, this is the case.
Sensors that reflect light in a specific area
These sensors employ technology that allows them to generate infrared rays from an LED and then detect the reflections of moving objects. As soon as the subject reaches a certain location, the motion sensors detect it and notify the homeowner.
Sensors that use ultrasonic waves
Ultrasonic waves are used to measure the reflections of moving objects in these devices.
Final thoughts
A motion sensor is a very useful item for keeping your home security system up to date and operational. Because technology has advanced fast over the years, many new motion sensors now contain a variety of functionality. Before going to the store to get a motion sensor, it’s a good idea to do some research on the features and pricing of one that meets your needs. Also, make sure that your devices have a surge protector as they are a huge investment and you may lose them in power surges.