What Is a Motion Sensor?
A motion sensor sounds like something from a sci-fi movie or a heist movie, but it’s actually quite useful. It can help prevent unwanted entry into a building and trigger lights or an alarm.
Passive infrared sensors are easy to install and don’t require line of sight to operate. They are also less susceptible to environmental influences such as RF interference and surges.
Wide Detection Range
For security systems, motion sensors are crucial for detecting intruders or unwanted activity and activating devices like alarms and lights. These sensors are available in a variety of configurations, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
The most popular option is passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors. These work by detecting the change in temperature of an object or person in the range of its coverage. They are typically able to distinguish between static heat sources like walls and furniture from moving objects, such as people or animals.
Another common type of motion sensor is active ultrasonic. These sensors use high-frequency sound waves that bounce off stationary or moving objects and return to the sensor. The sensors can then detect the time difference between the sending and receiving of the waves. If the reflected wave is longer than expected, the sensor can interpret it as movement and trigger an alarm or other programmed response.
Microwave sensors also function by emitting microwave pulses and observing the reflections of these pulses on moving objects. They can cover a larger area than PIR sensors, but they are more expensive and can be subject to electronic interference. It is not uncommon for these sensors to be combined with a PIR sensor in one device in an attempt to reduce the chances of false alarms.
High Sensitivity
One of the most important things to consider when deciding on the best motion sensor for your needs is sensitivity. A sensor that is overly sensitive may Sensor Accessories send you many false alarms. Our security professionals are experienced in configuring and placing motion sensors for optimal accuracy with minimal false alarms.
The most common type of motion sensor uses PIR technology (passive infrared) to detect changes in the environment. Other types of sensors include ultrasonic, microwave, and optoelectronic sensors.
PIR sensors detect heat and temperature changes to recognize movement. These sensors have a variety of settings that can be used to limit the number of false alarms caused by things like sunlight and heating vents.
Active ultrasonic sensors, also called “sonar” sensors, work by emitting high-frequency sound waves that bounce off objects in their detection range. The sensor then analyzes how long it takes the waves to bounce back to determine if there is movement. If the wave pattern is altered, the sensor will interpret this as movement and trigger an alarm or other programmed reaction.
Tomographic motion sensors use multiple sensors in a space to communicate with each other. If one of the sensors detects movement, it will break the communication link with another sensor and trigger an alarm. These sensors are typically used in areas with high levels of security, such as warehouses and professional storage spaces.
Low Power Consumption
Unlike active ultrasonic sensors, which require a clear line of sight between the sensor and any object or person that is being monitored, PIR-based motion detectors emit infrared energy that can penetrate physical barriers like walls and cubicle dividers. This makes them a great choice for spaces where there is a need to detect motion in areas that are difficult to place cameras.
Microwave and tomographic technology sensors work in a similar way. Both emit a radio-frequency electromagnetic signal that bounces off objects in the vicinity and then back to the sensor. If the signal bounces differently, the sensor can determine that there has been a change in the environment and trigger an alarm.
These sensor types require an unobstructed line of sight, which can make them prone to false alarms from things like household pets and slight temperature fluctuations. To mitigate this, dual-technology sensors combine two different technologies in one assembly to lower the likelihood of nuisance alarms.
This type of self-powered sensor harvests mechanical energy from human body high frequency motion Sensor movements using a porous-REWOD electrode and converts the electrical charge into proportional output voltage. It is designed to provide a stable and reliable output for a wide range of modulation frequencies and movement characteristics35. It also features an integrated microcontroller and transceiver IC to enable wireless communication of the motion data.
Easy Installation
A motion sensor saves time, energy and money by automatically switching lights on when motion is detected, then switching them off after a preset period of inactivity. Also known as a “vacancy” sensor, it’s an easy-to-install alternative to a traditional light switch.
Unlike standard PIR sensors that use infrared to detect movement, high frequency motion detectors have the ability to sense movement through glass and thin non-metallic materials. This makes them ideal for basement corridors, stairwells, and multi-storey car parks. They are also independent of temperature, so they can detect the movement of cold cars in a car park.
If you are installing a motion sensor, make sure it is paired with your ClareOne panel before starting. Once it is paired, a “Walk Test” mode will be enabled. To activate this mode, press and hold the tamper switch while replacing the battery. This mode allows you to verify that the sensor can detect motion within the desired range/area.
Aside from the obvious convenience of a motion sensor, it can help prevent theft and break-ins. Studies show that burglars are less likely to break into an office with ample lighting, because it would signal a possible presence of other people. Similarly, if a bathroom has a motion sensor installed, it reduces the need to manually turn on and off the light in the dark with wet hands that could potentially get an electric shock.
