What Do Motion Sensors Actually Look Like?

An essential component of any security system is a motion sensor. Whether standalone or built into another security device, all motion detectors serve the same function—to sense movement and trigger an alert, like a burglar alarm, or action, such as turning on lights.

Motion detectors can be used in many different applications, from smart lighting that turns on when you enter the room to security cameras that record when a person is detected. But what exactly do motion sensors look like, and can they be identified? Read on to find out how these smart little devices work and what they may look like.

What is a motion sensor?

In a nutshell, a motion sensor uses different technologies to detect movement in an area. That movement is then used to trigger an action, such as sounding a security alarm, recording on a security camera, or turning on lights.

Motion detectors can sense when someone (or something) is in an area, but how exactly does a motion detector work? There are different types of motion sensors that can detect movement, including:

• Passive infrared (PIR) technology. One of the most common types of motion detectors in home security systems, passive infrared sensors (PIR) detect body heat in a specific area by monitoring temperature changes using rays of infrared light. If a PIR motion sensor detects body heat, it will trigger the security system’s alarm. Infrared is the most common type of sensor technology used in home security systems and home automation.
• Active ultrasonic technology. Active ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to identify motion within the field of view. They emit silent ultrasonic waves that bounce off objects in the sensor’s field of vision and back to the motion sensor, triggering the alarm.
• Microwave sensor (MW). This type of sensor identifies motion by emitting waves that capture a moving object’s reflections. While they can monitor larger areas than the more common infrared energy sensors, they are more prone to interference.
• Dual technology. There are also dual technology sensors that combine PIR and microwave sensor technology. Combining the two types of technology is done to help minimize false alarms.

There are wireless motion sensors and wired motion sensors, but wireless are the most commonly used with alarm systems. This allows them to be placed in the most effective areas without having to run wiring. You will need to monitor battery life, but most will send you a notification or warn you when battery levels are low.

How do motion sensors work in a home security system?

Motion sensors are often used in home security systems because they help identify the presence of people in certain areas. This is useful for burglar alarms or to detect unauthorized entry in certain areas of your home or property.

If someone enters the sensor’s field of vision when your alarm is set, it will trip your alarm. If your system is part of a monitored smart home security system, like Vivint, the professional monitoring center will be notified. You’ll also receive a notification on your phone that your alarm has been activated.

Placement tips for motion sensors

In a home security system, motion sensors are placed in areas where you want an extra set of eyes or want to monitor access. But in order for motion sensors to be effective, they need to be placed in the right spots.

A motion sensor should have a clear line or sight and be placed in an area with blind spots or one that could trigger false alarms.

While we recommend professional installation to make sure every sensor is working and optimally placed by a trained professional. installing standalone wireless motion sensors can be a fairly simple DIY project. If you’re going to install them yourself, some tips for placing motion detectors include:

• 6-8 feet up. Sensors should be placed high on the wall, but not too high—if they are too high, you could end up with blind spots along the ground. Installing them between six and eight feet up the wall will allow the active sensor to get a good, sweeping view.
• Corners. Placing your sensor in the corner of a room will help you get a good view of the entire room. Facing it towards a doorway or entryway will also help capture foot traffic into the area.
• High-traffic areas. Think of the places a person has to walk through when going through your home, such as a main hallway, stairway, or entryway. This will help ensure the motion detector catches any intruder as they walk through your home.
• Entryways. Place your motion detector near entry points that a burglar would most likely enter, such as a front or back door.
• Sensitive areas. You can also place your sensors in areas you want to make sure people stay away from, such as gun safes, jewelry boxes, or liquor cabinets.
• Away from heat sources. Make sure you don’t place motion sensors near heat sources, such as space heaters, radiators, or vents. This ensures the infrared radiation, which measures heat, doesn’t trigger a false alarm.

Motion detector pairings

While motion detectors can be standalone devices that capture movement, many smart home devices also include motion detectors.

These devices can enhance security systems while also making life more convenient. Some motion detector pairings to consider for your home include:

• Motion-activated lighting. Motion sensor lights can be used both inside and outside, helping make your home more secure. Floodlights outside will light the area if someone comes into the field of view, or light your entryway for guests. Inside, motion lights can help save energy, turning off automatically when people aren’t in the room.
• Security cameras. Many security cameras—especially doorbell cameras and outdoor security cameras—are also equipped with motion sensors that trigger recording when a person enters the field of view. You can also adjust the sensitivity levels of these cameras, so they’re not triggered by pets or vehicles.

What motion detectors look like

So what exactly do motion sensors look like? Whether you’re wondering if they will fit in with the aesthetic of your home, or you want to be able to identify them in vacation rentals or other properties, many motion detectors share common features, including:

• Size. Standalone motion detectors are often similar in size, usually around 3 inches high and wide and a couple of inches deep.
• Placement. Most homes place motion detectors higher up on the walls and in corners, so there is a good chance you’ll be able to identify a device in a high corner of a room as a motion sensor.
• Color. While some motion sensors can blend in with the wall color, the majority of security system motion sensors are white in color.
• Light or glow. Some motion sensors might have a faint glow when the room is dark, or an infrared light that may be visible.

Motion-activated devices are a little easier to identify, as they will typically trigger a reaction (such as light or recording) when motion is detected.

Vivint Motion Detectors

Want to help protect your home with a Vivint Motion Sensor? These small smart devices blend seamlessly with your home’s aesthetic and are an important component of your security system.

Contact us today at 800.646.1469 and find out how adding a motion sensor to your home can help keep your family safe.