What is a Motion Sensor?
Motion sensors are small components that can either come pre-installed on exterior light fixtures or as independent units that can be installed later.
As the sun sets, any movement that occurs within the range of the motion sensor will cause the light to turn on for a predetermined length of time.
How Motion Sensors Work
Most motion sensors use a passive system with a lens that has the ability to detect infrared energy. The motion sensor component sends out infrared light beams that are focused on a particular area. Specifically, the motion sensor is looking for any rapid changes in the infrared signal.
If a human being or animal walks in front of a motion sensor, it detects a change in the infrared energy within its range of coverage. The result is, the sensor turns on the light. If you stand still long enough, you will become part of the environment of infrared energy and the light will time itself off. Begin walking again and the motion sensor will once again detect the change in infrared energy and turn the light back on.
Motion Sensor Considerations
Motion sensors are ideal for adding another level of security to your home and as an extra added bonus, they can help you save on your electric bill because certain lights will not be illuminated all night.
To prevent your lights from constantly coming on, you may have to set the range of coverage on your motion sensor. If the motion sensor is aiming in the direction of the street, it may kick on every time a car drives past or a cat strolls down the sidewalk. It may take a few tries before you get the perfect combination of height and distance covered, but once you do, your motion sensor will help to keep all shady figures, skunks and deer out of your yard!
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