More and more people are opting for perimeter alarm systems with infrared barriers. These types of motion detectors provide increased security and have the ability to protect indoor and outdoor areas with greater range than a standard device. But do you know the difference between motion sensor and infrared barrier? We explain it here.
However, doubts arise when choosing a presence detector or an infrared barrier. The choice of the system that best suits us is determined based on the characteristics of each one and our needs. Next, we will explain the difference between motion sensor and infrared barrier and the convenience of installing these systems.
What is a motion sensor?
A motion sensor or presence detector is characterized by being an electrical system aimed at both home automation and security systems. It is responsible for monitoring an area, so that when identifying a displacement it offers a previously programmed response. When a movement is generated, a device can sound or even alert the guard.
On more than one occasion we have gone shopping and we have had to wait for the doors of a store to open to be able to access it. What really activates this mechanism is the motion sensor. Upon detecting this presence, an order is established that allows the glass door to slide to allow passage.
Motion sensor types
Technology has come a long way in recent years and these detectors have improved their development. We can find them with smaller size and greater sensitivity to reduce false notices. For example, before those that could generate companion animals.
Currently, we find different types of motion detectors depending on the use of technology for detection, but mainly, we will differentiate two modes that refer to the emission and reception of energy.
Passive motion detectors
This type of sensor is the one most used in business, and they are called passive or PIR because they do not use any type of energy to function. In this case, they will receive infrared radiation to detect variations in space.
When a sudden change in movement is generated or certain heat is emitted, it is the moment in which they are activated. We start from the assumption that any living being emits infrared energy and passive motion detectors recognize a source located between 8 and 12 micrometers.
Active motion detectors
The active motion sensor emits energy and works by sending out ultrasonic waves. When a certain signal is emitted and a different one is received, the system detects an irregularity and will activate the alarm. In this way, an order is executed with a previously programmed response.
It is true that these types of sensors are used in different environments, but they are not normally installed in homes and businesses, since they offer false alarms and generate much more annoyance than benefits.
What is an infrared barrier?
Perimeter barriers are ideal for security for industrial buildings or other types of businesses. They are equipped with a technological component that has a double function. On the one hand, they deter unauthorized people and, on the other hand, they detect unauthorized access to a protected area.
When someone breaks into a certain perimeter, this alarm system would go off and go into operation. The central or company responsible would verify what has happened and notify the police if necessary.
This type of infrared barrier is connected to an alarm and designed to protect common areas, gardens, swimming pools, etc. Therefore, no one outside the venue can access without prior permission.
Types of infrared barriers
Thanks to the wide range of infrared waves, this security system allows us to safeguard from strangers in large indoor and outdoor spaces in large commercial areas or other types of businesses.
The choice of a perimeter alarm system will depend on the protection needs of those areas where other devices are not functional. Infrared barriers are usually differentiated, according to the way they obtain their energy. There are two types that we must take into account: solar and electric.
Solar barriers
The infrared solar barrier detects the passage of people, either through doors, corridors or windows. It is characterized by having a transmitter that emits a double beam of infrared light that is not visible to the human eye.
When the infrared rays are interrupted by the passage of people, this alarm is activated. This wireless device is solar powered and should be installed where it receives direct sunlight.
Electric barriers
On the contrary, electrical barriers need electrical current in order to function. However, its purpose is the same by quickly and effectively protecting access to facilities or any other exterior building. It has a wide field of vision and different capacities to adapt its configuration to the environment of the facilities.
Main differences between infrared barrier and motion sensor
As stated above, it should be noted that an infrared barrier projects several infrared beams and generates a beam of infrared light, which the receiving part transforms into an electrical signal. When said pulse generates a variation or is interrupted, the alarm is activated.
For its part, the motion sensor is a motion detector of a hot body, which is about 10 to 15 meters away and about 90 degrees in radius. In this way, an alarm would be generated by crossing situations.
However, the advantages are similar in terms of security and avoiding possible vandalism or intrusion detection in certain areas. To this, it should be added that they withstand inclement weather and cover wide areas of vision.
In summary, once the characteristics and main differences are known, we will have to choose the device that meets our real needs. The installation of this security system in a fashion store has nothing to do with it than in a large industrial warehouse.
We hope we have solved your doubts about the Difference between motion sensor and infrared barrier.
