Types of Motion Sensors

Motion sensors, also known as passive motion sensors and motion detectors, are types of security systems that are designed using a technology that detects movement in the area wherein they are installed. As the name implies, the crime prevention system has a sensor or detector that is triggered when it is tripped or touched. It also sends a signal to the system's control panel which will then send an alert to the monitoring center of the security system provider. Thus, when there is threat in the home or office, the police will be alerted the soonest possible.

Some motion sensor alarm systems prevent robbery by triggering the alarm when someone is in the front door. Others are programmable so that the owner will be record the incident using a security camera when a motion is detected in the area. Apart from preventing crimes and protecting the property, motion sensors are also useful in ensuring that children and visitors will not enter any restricted areas in the property. The only problem with motion sensors is that they can also be triggered by pets and other animals. Thus, it is always best to place them in areas where there is a low possibility of animal presence.

Some motion sensor driveway alarms are designed using the passive infrared technology. According to science, warm-blooded animals and humans produce infrared radiations. Thus, when a person or animal blocks the protective area, the sensor will be able to detect the IR produced by the intruder. This type of sensors is commonly used as indoor alarms and is the most economical and energy-saving. Motion sensors that run using microwave technology, on the other hand, are more expensive but can cover larger areas. The microwave pulses produced by the system are capable of measuring the reflection of the moving object, which triggers the alarm. However, they are also commonly affected by electrical interferences.

Another type of a motion sensor for driveway, door, window, and the likes is the one that is being run by ultrasonic sensors. It is a security system that is sensitive to the sound of metal on metal, breaking glass, and others. This system produces ultrasonic or sound wave that is able to identify the reflection of the motion. Since this type is too sensitive, there are a lot of cases of fake or false alarms due to animals and moving cars. Motion sensor-based security systems that can be used in large facilities like warehouses and storage units work using tomographic sensors. Although such is expensive, the good thing about it is that they are able to pass through walls and objects. Thus, they are more efficient.

Since most motion sensor alarm systems have a lot of false or fake alarm cases, some manufacturers started producing products that use a combine of such sensors. The only fall back of this kind is that the sensors should both be triggered before it produces an alert. No matter what type of motion sensor alarms people choose, they should always consider their needs and the reviews of the brand.