What are Common Features of Motion Detector Lights?īeyond the information shared in the previous question, there are other common features of motion detectors. This happens when the door or window they are fastened to is opened.Ģ. Usually placed on doors or windows, contact sensors activate when the direct signal from one part of the sensor to the other is interrupted. Contact Sensorsīased off of their name alone, it is pretty easy to figure out how contact sensors work. This type of motion detector light is usually used outdoors and is most often set to activate only when it is dark outside, like a front porch light. Light change detectors track ambient light and turn on your lights whenever they detect a big enough change in lighting. This type of sensor is great for both indoor and outdoor motion detector lights. Whenever something crosses in front of the sensor, it physically blocks the signal that the sensor is emitting, letting the lights know that there is movement and that it is time for them to turn on. Signal Blockage SensorsĪnother type of motion detection technology detects blocked signals.

This type of motion sensor would be best utilized for an indoor motion detector light instead of an outdoor one. If the sensor detects a sudden change in temperature, like, say, a body, crossing in front of it, the lights will flip on. Some motion detection technology utilizes sensors to detect heat differences.

Here’s a basic rundown of how each type of motion detection works in the context of motion detection lights. Whatever the type of sensor, motion detector lights use specialized technology to detect movement and turn on the lights. This means you already know how motion detector lights work, because the different technologies that power motion activated cameras are the exact same technologies that power motion detector lights.

If you’ve read our page about motion activated cameras, then you are familiar with some of the different types of motion activated technology.

Motion sensor light outdoor