Motion detectors are in use all around us in both residential and commercial locations. There are many common uses for motion detectors that most people find convenient and helpful in very common, everyday situations, and there will be some new and innovative uses that we may see more and more of in the future.

Residential Uses

Residential consumers are putting the motion detector to a variety of uses. They can greatly enhance the exterior lighting to any home and add to the security once inside.

If your concern is coming home to a dark house and tripping on the steps, motion detector controlled floodlights can create well-lit paths lighting up your yard, driveway, sidewalk and steps. This makes for a safe path to welcome both you and your guests. Floodlights should be mounted high up on the wall to keep the light out of your eyes and to illuminate a wider area for increased security. The same flood of light that walks you and your guests to your door safely will deter would-be-intruders. When the lights are triggered by motion this gives the impression that someone within the house is able to see and watch the burglar's every movement.

Once inside, motion detectors placed in key areas can detect any violators and alert the proper authorities. Usually, one placed properly on the main floor and one on the lower level, if you have one, will serve as good traps. Stairways are often a good area to consider when placing the device, since you will be better able to prevent unauthorized passage from one floor to the next.

One innovative use in the home is to install an alarm or medical alert system that detects any health or safety issues with the elderly. Included is a motion detector that signals the central station if it does not detect activity for more than a certain number of hours. Once this alert has been made an operator can contact someone to look in on that elderly person.

Commercial Uses

Motion detector technology is being used in a variety of ways in the commercial world. Some of the more common uses can be found by taking a trip to the mall. As you approach the front entrance your presence is detected and the door slides open. Also, some stores place an invisible beam across the entrance that, when crossed, triggers a ringing bell. Later you decide to go to the bathroom and as you are finished and are preparing to exit the stall, sensors on the toilet detect that you are finished and the toilet automatically flushes for you. Then you approach the sink to wash your hands and the water turns on as you place your hands underneath the spout. Upon exiting the building the door opens up automatically once more to let you out. Finally, after hours the stores are all locked up and the motion detector security system is turned on to alert authorities on any intruder break-ins.

One innovative idea regarding motion detectors has been devised to suit the needs of car dealers. Occasionally, potential car buyers like to stroll around after hours looking at cars. To decipher between potential customers and thieves, streaming video and two-way audio are tied in with motion detectors. When the detector is tripped, a central station operator can take control of the camera, assess the situation, and take action if needed.

As you have just learned, motion detectors have a wide variety of uses to suit many different needs of various users. Since motion detectors are so versatile and have so many uses, they provide feelings of safety and security for the average homeowner as well as a large commercial establishment. Motion detectors have evolved a great deal over the last few years to incorporate more features that are useful to more people, and the development and expansion of motion detector technology and functions will continue to expand and grow to provide more ways to keep your home and businesses safe. What will they think of next?

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