Five Tips for Buying Infrared Motion Detectors
Type
One of the first things you need to consider when buying infrared motion detectors is the type. They can either be passive or active systems. Passive infrared motion detectors sense heat generated by a body moving through the coverage area. Active infrared systems emit radiation to sense motion. Each system is effective, but the passive infrared system is more common and a little cheaper.
Coverage
You should also consider the coverage when buying infrared motion detectors. You will need to determine how much area will need to be covered by the system. Different infrared motion detectors differ in the amount of area they can cover effectively. Therefore, you should measure the area you need covered, so you will know if your prospective system will be capable of covering it effectively.
Sensing Chamber
Another thing to consider when buying infrared motion detectors is the sensing chamber. This is the chamber that houses the sensor. Dirt and debris can cause problems with the sensor if they get into this chamber. Therefore, you should only buy infrared motion detectors that have a sealed sensing chamber. This will keep the dirt and debris away from the sensor.
Pulse Count
The pulse count determines how often the sensor needs to be triggered before it sets off the alarm. It’s best to buy infrared motion detectors that have an adjustable pulse count. This will allow you to reduce the frequency of false alarms generated by the system.
Interference
One of the final things you should consider when buying infrared motion detectors is interference. Radio frequencies can have a negative effect on the performance of the system. Therefore, you should buy infrared motion detectors that are shielded from radio frequencies. The system should also be able to tolerate white light. Active infrared motion detectors sometimes have trouble compensating for some lighting conditions.
These are a few tips for buying infrared motion detectors. Although both passive and active systems are effective, passive systems are more common and cost less. You should also make sure any infrared motion detectors you buy have a sealed sensing chamber so that dirt and debris will not cause problems with the sensor.
