What is a Microwave Motion Detector?

Motion sensors are  one of the best ways to secure your home. They can protect your property’s entryways and other vulnerable points in your house. However, if someone does manage to breach your exterior security, you’ll want to know where unwelcome guests are whilst inside of your house. While the simplest motion sensors use radar or microwave technology, many can be employed utilizing have radar, photo-sensors, or infrared motion detectors, making them invaluable to home security.  

What is a Microwave Motion Sensor? 

A microwave motion sensor uses electro-magnetic radiation. It emits waves which are then reflected back to the receiver. The receiver analyzes the waves that are bounced back. If there is an object moving in the room, these waves are going to be altered. The microwave detector is able to identify changes from moment to moment. Ideally, the receiver should be receiving the same waves back again and again. 

Because of the way that microwave motion sensors work, they can be either more sensitive or less sensitive. They can identify very minute changes (a totally empty house) or be calibrated to require larger scale movement to avoid false positives. 

What Are the Capabilities of a Microwave Motion Sensor? 

Microwave sensors that are more advanced can also detect whether an individual is moving towards or away from the sensor or moving randomly. These detectors are helpful in sensing and differentiating between the ordinary movement and intruder movement. This feature of these  sensors makes them highly reliable. 

Microwave sensors are completely safe to use. They can be employed both inside and outside a property and be placed across relatively large areas. They can also be configured to detect different types of activity, such as ignoring certain areas of the home, perhaps where pets or children might be active. 

Benefits of a Microwave Motion Sensor 

Microwave motion detectors can be used in virtually any environment, including those that are not otherwise hospitable to sensors, such as  high heat environments that can set off photo-electric sensors. This makes them one of the most versatile types of sensor system. 

Microwave detectors can go through walls and holes. This means they can cover a larger area of a home or commercial property, including fairly large outdoor areas. Because of this, they’re usually good for those who need to secure large areas of land. 

These detectors can also be programmed to reduce the amount of false alarms without having to minimize the of correct positives, therefore improving accuracy and ease of use. Additionally, microwave detectors are generally less expensive to purchase, even though they may be more expensive to run.  

When shopping for sensors, it’s important to remember the everyday instances that could trigger a false alarm, such as moving drapery or shifting sun patterns. Plus, the sensors require a continuous power draw, so they may be expensive to run. They also only work at intervals rather than working continuously, by sending out signals and then receiving them. 

Microwave Motion Detectors: Pros and Cons 

Perhaps you’ve made your pros and cons list and realize that your family needs more than just one tier of home security. Or maybe you’re looking for 24/7, professionally monitored protection. If you fall into this category, then consider securing your home with Brinks Home Security ™. 

For over 25 years we’ve been helping families across the country protect what matters most with award-winning home security. Our line of innovative security devices includes motion detectors, door and window sensors, touchscreen control panels, indoor and outdoor cameras, and other smart home security equipment.  Contact our team  of experts today to find out more information about the different types of sensors available.  

Lauren Slade is a Dallas-based writer and editor.