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Radar Based Motion Detection

In the United States crime rates have dropped, but detecting home intrusion remains an issue and radar-based motion detection can give homeowners peace of mind. In 2007 nearly 10,000,000 property crime offenses occurred. Crime rates vary regionally and while national levels may have gone down, crime rates have stayed steady or gone up in parts of the country.

Radar-based motion detection protects a home or business from intruders. The detectors bounce a constant level of microwave radiation off surroundings such as walls and furniture. If there is an unexpected object the detector notices the changes by comparing the original signal reflected off the environment to the new signal bounced off an intruder. The detector then reacts based on its programming. It can send a signal to a subscription monitoring service, trigger an alarm, or flash lights to scare off the potential thief.

When shopping for radar-based motion detection devices make sure to pick out a model with a large enough range. Detectors can also focus on one specific spot.

Discuss with the salesman whether to purchase a model with hardwired power or battery power. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Battery powered models offer convenience, but don't give complete peace of mind because power may run out. On the other hand, a hardwired detector won't shut off due to a lack of power, but is harder to install.

Homeowners with pets should shop for radar-based motion detection that features sensitivity control. An animal can set off a highly sensitive radar-based motion detection system. Having sensitivity control can prevent false alarms.

Make a list of security needs and write down your budget constraints. Security consultants are available to help evaluate risk. After establishing how much space needs protection and what specific areas to focus on, begin researching prices. No-frills radar detection ranges from $30-$50. Top-of-the-line models include cameras and digital recorders and can cost as much as $600.

Businesses also use radar-based motion detection systems. Automatic doors used in malls and drugstores use a box that shoots microwave radio energy at regular intervals and waits for the reflected energy to come back. If a person stands in the way of the energy, then the signal comes back faster than normal. Normally, the automatic doors simply open, but they can be programmed to trigger an alarm. The same technology is used in parking garages to allow a gate to open and close for cars.

Business owners can find additional functionality at higher price points. For example, the Hercules 2 microwave motion detector was designed for businesses to keep intruders away from industrial doors. The detector can differentiate between people and vehicles. The system also features optional direction recognition. This guarantees that the automatic door will only open as people approach or leave it. The motion detector regulates the door so that it closes again immediately after an entrance or exit. In addition, the unit features a built-in self monitoring device in case an emergency exit is required.