Types of Motion Sensors for Detecting Humans

Motion sensors have become an essential part of everyday life. From automatic lights that turn on when we enter a room to smart CCTV cameras that instantly record suspicious movement, all of this is possible thanks to motion sensor technology.

However, did you know that there are different types of motion sensors, each with its own unique operating mechanism? This article will detail the types of motion sensors that can detect humans, including their advantages, disadvantages, use cases, and recommendations for BIOTA smart sensors for your smart home.

1. PIR (Passive Infrared Sensor)

How Human Motion Sensors Work:
A PIR sensor detects infrared radiation (heat) emitted by a human or animal body. When a person moves within the sensor's range, the change in body heat is detected and converted into an electrical signal to trigger a response, such as turning on a light or an alarm.

Usage Examples:

• Automatic lights in the hallway or garage.

• Home alarm system.

• Smart motion sensor on smart home devices.

Advantages of Human Motion Sensor:

• Saves energy because it is only active when there is movement.

• Accurate in detecting human presence based on body heat.

• The price is relatively cheap and easy to install.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect movement behind solid barriers such as walls.

• Sensitivity decreases if the environmental temperature is too similar to human body temperature.

2. Ultrasonic Sensor

How Human Motion Sensors Work:
Ultrasonic sensors emit high-frequency sound waves (inaudible to humans). These waves are reflected back by surrounding objects, and changes in these reflections indicate movement.

Suitable for:

• Closed spaces such as meeting rooms, offices, or warehouses.

• Areas that require subtle motion detection, such as someone sitting or moving slightly.
  
  

Advantages of Human Motion Sensor:

• Very sensitive, able to detect small movements.

• Can work even though there are thin barriers such as cloth or light partitions.

Lack:

• Consumes more power than PIR.

• Prone to false alarms due to certain vibrations or sounds.

3. Microwave Sensor

How Human Motion Sensors Work:
Microwave sensors emit electromagnetic waves. If an object moves, the reflected wave pattern changes, which the sensor detects as movement.

Excess:

• Wider detection range than PIR.

• Can penetrate thin materials such as glass, wood, or plastic.

• Very high sensitivity, can detect small movements.

Lack:

• Too sensitive so it is prone to false alarms (for example due to small animals or swaying trees).

• The price is more expensive.

• May interfere with other devices that use electromagnetic waves.

4. Dual Technology Sensor (PIR + Microwave)

How Human Motion Sensors Work:
This sensor combines two technologies: PIR (infrared) and microwave. The sensor will only emit a signal if both technologies detect motion simultaneously.

Excess:

• Reduces the possibility of false alarms.

• More reliable for home and building security systems.

• Effectively detects humans in both large and closed areas.

Usage Examples:

• Premium security alarm.

• Modern smart security system.

Lack:

• Price is higher than single sensor.

• Installation is more complicated.

5. Camera Sensor (Image/Video Motion Detection)

How Human Motion Sensors Work:
This sensor detects motion by comparing differences between video frames in real time. With the help of artificial intelligence (AI), the camera can distinguish whether the movement originates from a human, an animal, or another object.

Excess:

• Can simultaneously record activities as visual evidence.

• AI is able to recognize objects more intelligently (e.g. humans vs vehicles).

• Suitable for modern security systems and smart homes.

Usage Examples:

• Smart CCTV with real-time notifications.

• Outdoor camera to monitor the home area 24 hours.

• Smart home based security systems, such as the BIOTA Smart Camera .

Lack:

• Requires electrical power and a stable internet connection.

• Requires large storage space for video data.

• Price is higher than simple sensors.

BIOTA Smart Sensor Recommendations

To provide a safer and more comfortable smart home, BIOTA provides devices with advanced motion sensor technology.

1. BIOTA Smart Motion Sensor

• Using an accurate PIR sensor to detect human movement.

• Connect with the BIOTA app for real-time notifications directly to your smartphone.

• Can be combined with lights, alarms, or other smart home devices.

• Minimalist design, easy to install in the entrance, living room, or outdoor area.

2. BIOTA Smart Camera (Indoor & Outdoor)

• Equipped with AI-based motion detection that is able to distinguish humans from other movements.

• Automatic recording and sending notifications when there is movement.

• Integrated with the BIOTA smart home ecosystem, compatible with Alexa and Google Home.

• Suitable for monitoring home security 24 hours.
  

With the combination of the Smart Motion Sensor and the BIOTA Smart Camera , you can achieve maximum home security. It not only detects motion but also provides quick alerts and records visual evidence directly on your smartphone.

There are various types of motion sensors with different functions and technologies. PIR sensors are popular for their accuracy and energy efficiency. Ultrasonic and microwave sensors are suitable for large areas or more sensitive needs. Meanwhile, dual technology and AI cameras are the best solutions for modern security systems.

For everyday use in a smart home, the BIOTA Smart Motion Sensor and BIOTA Smart Camera are the perfect choice. Both not only detect motion but also provide a safer, more convenient, and more connected smart home experience.

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