Having some type of security system at home has become compulsory nowadays with the increasing number of crimes. Apart from different alarm systems and CCTV cameras, PIR motion sensor is also one of them. PIR (Passive Infrared Sensor) sensor detects infrared light. Motion sensors are used to detect human body movements inside or outside buildings or properties. They send out a signal to the control panel once they sense or detect any movement which triggers the alert in the way of light or alarm device. In this blog, we will see how the PIR motion sensor functions as well as the possibilities and limitations of this technology.
Meaning of PIR sensors
The term "passive" indicates that the sensor does not actively emit the IR signals but passively detects the infrared radiations coming from the human body from the surrounding area. Generally speaking, like any other motion sensor, PIR sensor is something that detects infrared energy emitted by human or animal body from a considerable distance with the help of a crystalline material. This material is located in the field of view and sends out signals to the control system which can trigger the alarm when there is any movement. To be more accurate, the detector analyses the change by measuring the difference which occurs in the amount of infrared radiation in a particular location. PIR sensors are mostly used in outdoor and indoor environments in the form of security lights and alarm systems. The usual range for a PIR sensor is 6 meters but they can also be adjusted in different ranges. Due to its small size, long lasting life, less cost and convenience in using, lights with PIR sensors have gained much popularity appreciably.
Different types of PIR sensors:
1. Alarm system PIR sensors
This device is used mostly in households and small offices due to its low price and good functionality. The alarm detector, once it detects heat energy, triggers the elected alarm device and rings the bell or siren to warn the occupants or scare the burglars off.
3. Motion light PIR sensors
These type of security lights are good for increasing the efficiency of outdoor lighting (outdoor flood lights) or the hallway. Since Motion light PIR sensor has adjustable PIR sensor range and illumination time, it can also be used indoors. It can also save maximum energy if you are using the proper type of bulb such as LED bulbs.
4. Video motion sensors
These sensors can be combined with video cameras having advanced digital processing. The recordable motion sensors start recording once they sense any motion and capture them in the memory storage. They can also save energy by capturing motion only when they detect someone is entering the building. As mentioned, PIR lights can sense motion and provide security and safety to any property through a built-in PIR sensor.
Some of the commonly used areas are:
- Yards of private houses
- Front-door
- Hallways of office buildings
- Parking lots
- Streets with relatively less movement at night
PIR motion lights are available in varieties depending on their features, functions and adjustments. To get the best out of your product, try examining it before actually doing the purchase. You can even consult the retailer for different parameters of the product such as:
- The range of detection
- Distance of the detection
- Placement
- Lamps
- Pet-immune sensor
- Resistance
- Solar panel equipped motion lights.
All in one solar street lights with motion sensors are in great demand due to their energy efficiency and cost effectiveness. They create a sense of safety and security to the property owners while operating automatically on solar energy without any manual assistance. A few seconds after switching on at dusk, all in one solar street light dims down its brightness to almost 20%. The built-in PIR motion sensor is able to detect movement and heat and the light is activated to full brightness. The dim mode is reverted when there are no moving objects identified in its range.
The saved up energy can be useful during non-sunny days when there is not enough sunlight for the panels to absorb and convert to electricity. These lights are available in affordable price ranges and in lesser wattage and can be installed in private properties to illuminate courtyards, play areas, lawns, or any dark corners. All in one solar street lights with motion sensors are also available in higher wattage and can be installed at those streets where people movement at night is relatively lesser and vehicle movement is predictable. These lights are found also being used to light up gated communities, backyards, decks, etc.