Home Security Blog

Hi DIYers! If you have a smart home setup, then you know how exciting it is when you add a new smart device. Now you have brand-new equipment that you can integrate into smart scenes and control from anywhere! But what about the central hub that serves as the "brains" of the setup?

The smart home hub is the unsung hero of a smart home network. The way that it works is that all smart home devices will connect with the hub. Whenever a command is sent out for one or more smart home devices, it will pass through the hub first. In that sense, the hub is what connects all of the devices in the network together. So without a hub, a true smart home network will not be possible.

What makes a smart hub unique is that it communicates with multiple types of wireless protocols. This should not be confused with a bridge, which only communicates with one type of wireless protocol. An example is the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge, as it will only send commands to devices running the Lutron protocol (Clear Connect). That's not to say that bridges can't represent a useful part of a smart home setup. There are many great protocols that are operated through some type of smart bridge. But having a dedicated central hub can make controlling your smart home devices as easy as possible.

Naturally, it makes sense that many users want to integrate their alarm systems into their smart home networks. This way, they can have certain smart home devices respond to predetermined security events. An example could be having smart lights turn on automatically when a user walks into a room and sets off a motion detecting sensor. This type of setup is has become a reality for many users in recent years, as smart home technology continues to grow and evolve.

Unfortunately, it isn't as simple as just taking any security system and any smart home hub and having them suddenly work together. There are many compatibility issues and rules that must be kept in mind when integrating an alarm system into an existing smart home network. Some smart home hubs are easier to work with than others. And as this type of technology is still fairly new, there are still some issues to be worked out. But the beauty of integrating a security system with a primary smart hub, or even using the security system itself as the smart hub, is that it will facilitate a true connection between smart home devices and security devices.

We have already seen many users experience great success in using the Honeywell Lyric Controller as a secondary Z-Wave controller with a Samsung SmartThings Hub or as an integrated device with Apple HomeKit. In these situations, SmartThings or HomeKit will serve as the primary home automation controller. However, the user will still be able to have their Z-Wave devices respond based on actions taken by the Lyric. This could involve adjusting the thermostat automatically when a sensor is triggered or having a door lock itself when the system is armed. But keep in mind that the system may not be able to interact with every wireless protocol that is supported by the primary hub.

Many users are fine with having the security system itself serve as the primary hub for their smart home devices. Depending upon the wireless protocols involved, this can work quite well. For example, both the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and 2GIG GC3 Systems are Z-Wave Plus controllers that can be used as hubs for security devices and Z-Wave devices. When doing this, a user can control their Z-Wave devices directly through the panel or through the Alarm.com service. The Alarm.com Mobile App will even allow users to operate their Z-Wave devices from virtually anywhere in the world. The weakness here is that the user will be limited to using only wireless protocols that are supported by the alarm system. This might not be as many protocols as a dedicated home automation hub like Samsung SmartThings.

Alarm Grid will keep you up to date with new and advanced smart home automation technology and capabilities as it becomes available. We look forward to bringing you the latest news about this exciting technology and how it can help you get the very most out of your security system.

Hi DIYers! We're here with the Alarm Grid video recap for September 10th thru 17th. Our support technicians Joe, Dylan and Jorge are all back and here to teach you how to use your alarm system. We have seven new videos this time, with most of them focusing on the Interlogix Systems.

Disabling Chime on an Interlogix Simon XT

Dylan demonstrates how to disable the chime for an Interlogix Simon XT System. By disabling the chime, the panel will not produce any sounds when sensors are faulted. There is an option accessible from the main screen that is used with toggling the chime On and Off. If the option is set to Off, the chime will be disabled for the entire system. Alternatively, muting the system will also stop the panel from producing chimes. However, this will stop all system sounds, except for sirens.

Self Monitoring a Simon XT

Dylan talks about using a Simon XT with a self-monitoring plan. A self-monitoring plan means that the system is not connected with a central monitoring station. As a result, a user will be unable to receive automatic emergency dispatch. But a user will still be able to receive system alerts and notifications through text and/or email from Alarm.com. A user can take these notifications and contact the authorities when needed to keep their home or business safe.

Adding a Wireless Motion Sensor on an Interlogix Simon XTi

Jorge shows users how to add a wireless motion sensor to an Interlogix Simon XTi System. This is the same process that is used for enrolling a wireless sensor to an Interlogix Simon XTi-5 System. A motion sensor will actively search for any motion that is present in an area. If the device detects motion while the system is armed, an alarm will occur on the system. This makes these devices great for keeping the inside of a building protected and secured. The Simon XTi supports 319.5 MHz motion sensors.

Resetting an Interlogix Simon XTi and XTi-5 to Factory Defaults

Jorge demonstrates how to reset an Interlogix Simon XTi or XTi-5 System to factory default settings. Once the system has been defaulted, all programmed codes and sensors will be deleted. The Master, Installer and Dealer Codes will all be reset to the factory default values. All system settings will be restored to the default. A user will basically need to reprogram their entire panel after a factory default has been performed. Therefore, we usually only recommend a default if it is absolutely needed.

Adding Hardwired Zones to an Interlogix Simon XT

Dylan shows users how they can use hardwired sensors with the Simon XT System. There are a couple of ways that this can be done. The panel has two hardwired inputs for supporting two normally closed hardwired sensors. This is a great option if a user only needs to use a couple of sensors. The other option is to use a compatible wired to wireless converter. This is good for using several wired sensors. A good converter to use is the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 8 or 16.

Sensors Compatible with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Alarm System

Joe talks about which sensors can be used with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2. The standard IQ Panel 2 contains a wireless receiver for supporting 319.5 MHz sensors. This includes all Qolsys Sensors and Interlogix/GE Sensors. If Qolsys S-Line Sensors are used, then they will be encrypted. Additionally, the upgraded Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus can support 915 MHz PowerG Sensors, plus one type of legacy sensors. This depends on which legacy daughtercard is installed. There are legacy options for 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz (Honeywell 5800 Series & 2GIG) and 433 MHz (legacy DSC).

Demonstrating Installer Code & Dealer Code on a Simon XTi and XTi-5

Joe explains the differences between the Installer Codes and Dealer Codes on the Simon XTi and XTi-5 Systems. Both of these codes are set to 4321 out of the box. However, they can be individually programmed if desired. The Dealer Code can do a few things that the Installer Code cannot. These mostly deal with the dialer for the system. Other than that, these codes serve exactly the same purpose. We generally recommend leaving these codes set to their default of 4321 so that the user does not get locked out of programming.

Hi DIYers! We are excited to announce that Lutron Smart Lighting Devices are now available for purchase on the Alarm Grid website. Lutron is one of the leaders in smart lighting and home automation. Their products are perfect for users who want to achieve an automated home lighting setup.

Lutron uses its own smart wireless communications protocol that is different from WIFI and other home automation signals like Z-Wave. The Lutron signal is specifically designed to not interfere with these communication signals. We have found that the Lutron wireless protocol is one of the most reliable and consistent signals for use with smart lighting and home automation. These devices can truly make a user's life easier, giving them complete and total control of their lights.

The centerpiece of a Lutron Smart Lighting System is the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge. This is what makes remote access and control possible for a Lutron device. All Lutron Lighting Devices will integrate with this central hub for access and control. Some of the smart home assistants and platforms that can be used with Lutron include Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Nest and Sonos. Whenever a command is sent out through one of these platforms, it will first pass through the Lutron Bridge before being forwarded to the specific device. Voice commands for Lutron Devices are possible when used with Apple HomeKit, Google Home and Amazon Alexa.

Some of the Lutron Devices that can connect with the Lutron Smart Bridge include the Lutron In-Wall Light Dimmer Switch for hardwired lights (no travel wire required) and the Lutron Plug-In Lamp Dimmer Module for lamps and floor lights. These devices can all be controlled remotely from virtually anywhere using the Lutron App or Apple HomeKit. They can also be operated by on-site users by using a Lutron Pico Remote. There's also an audio Pico Remote specifically designed for use with Sonos Sound Systems. And with the Lutron App, a user can even have their lights activate based on the Geofencing location of their smartphone!

By using a Lutron System with a Honeywell Lyric Controller (MR7 firmware update required) and Apple HomeKit, a user can even have their Lutron Devices activate with certain security events. For example, a might have all of their Lutron Smart Lights set to turn on when they return home and disarm their Lyric Alarm System. This is the best way to integrate a Lutron Smart Lighting System with a home security system.

Please note that Lutron integration with Alarm.com is only possible with the L-BDGPRO2 Smart Bridge PRO. If you are looking for the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 that can integrate with Alarm.com, it can be purchased here.

Lutron Products are available now on the Alarm Grid site. Obtain a robust and complete smart lighting setup for your home!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the 2GIG PANIC1-345 Panic Switch for use with the 2GIG GC2 and GC3 Alarm Systems. This device has many possible applications, but it is most commonly used as a medical alert device. It provides a quick and easy way to request emergency help.

It can be very concerning and scary to leave an elderly or disabled relative in their home alone. However, these people will often want to live as independently as possible and be able to take care of themselves. A panic switch like the 2GIG PANIC1-345 provides an ideal solution for these situations. If the user experiences a fall or medical emergency, they can quickly and conveniently get the help they need, even if nobody else is around.

The device can be conveniently activated by pressing and holding the large central button for 2 complete seconds. Having to press and hold the button prevents any false alarms from occurring due to accidental button prices. The red LED light on the device will activate after holding the button for 2 seconds, letting the user know that the signal has been successfully transmitted to the alarm system.

The PANIC1-345 is easy to set up with a 2GIG Go!Control GC2 or GC3 System as a medical alert device. This is usually a Sensor Type of (08) 24-Hour Auxiliary Alarm. With this setting, an alarm will be immediately sent out to the central station once the device has been activated. However, no siren or strobe will be set off during this time. The central station will then know to send out emergency medical dispatch to the residence immediately. Alternatively, the device can be programmed for police or fire dispatch if desired.

The device comes with a sensor clip and accessories for wearing the device as a wristband or lanyard. It is lightweight and water-resistant, allowing the user to keep it on their person at all times. This makes it perfect for users who might forget to put on the device after getting out of bed or bathing. However, the device should not be fully submerged underwater. But it is durable enough for reliable daily use. The battery inside the PANIC1-345 has a lifespan of about 2 years before requiring replacement.

The PANIC1-345 is available on the Alarm Grid website. Protect your loved one and help them live independently with this easy-to-use and convenient device.

Hi DIYers! As you know, we love the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Alarm System. It is definitely one of the most robust and advanced security systems available on the market today. But a feature that is sometimes overlooked is the built-in glass break sensor that is integrated with the system.

The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 internal glass break sensor functions in basically the same manner as any other standalone glass break sensor. It will actively listen for the sound of breaking glass and trigger an alarm if it detects this type of sound while the system is armed. This is great for monitoring a window in case an intruder tries to break-in. Both the standard Qolsys IQ Panel 2 and the new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems contain this sensor.

The sensor must be activated from within the Installer Settings menu in order for it to be used. The internal glass break sensor is essentially treated as a wireless zone by the system. Once activated, the internal sensor will count towards the system's 128 available wireless zones. A user may want to keep this in mind if they use an extremely large number of sensors with their IQ Panel 2 System.

For the best possible detection, there should be no obstacles between the system and the window. The recommended distance between the panel and the window is from 3 to 15 feet. The internal glass break sensor will only be active when the system is armed and receiving power from its plug-in DC transformer. Depending on the sensor's programming settings, a user can set the glass break sensor to be active when the system is set to Arm Away only or both Arm Away and Arm Stay. Both "Low" and "Normal" Sensitivity options are available.

Both the IQ Panel 2 and IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems with an integrated glass break detector can be purchased from the Alarm Grid website. Protect your home or business with one of the world's best alarm systems!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the 2GIG SP1 Wireless Touchscreen Keypad for use with the 2GIG GC3 Security System. This keypad provides a secondary point of access for a GC3 Panel, and it offers virtually all of the same operation functionality and controls as the GC3 itself.

The GC3 System is already known for its bright colors and responsive touchscreen controls. This makes the system a joy to use for end users. But what if a user wants to control their system from a second location. That is where the 2GIG SP1 comes in. Previously, the only touchscreen keypad option was the 2GIG SP2. This was fine, but the SP2 didn't provide all of the features and conveniences available with the actual GC3 System. But the SP1 made it possible for users to get nearly all of the same functionality and performance out of their secondary keypad that they get out of their GC3 Alarm Panel. In fact, the only thing that the SP1 can't do is make changes to system programming.

At first glance, the SP1 and SP2 keypads might seem very similar. Both devices feature a 7-inch full-color touchscreen display, can be mounted on a wall or a desk (with 2GIG CP-DESK), WIFI connectivity, basic security controls, the ability to check current system and sensor status, bypassing capabilities, and chime functionality. This makes both devices highly capable secondary keypads. And if a user only requires basic functionality for a secondary controller, they will usually do just fine with the SP2.

But the SP1 goes above and beyond by offering features not available with the SP2. The SP1 is capable of voice annunciation for verbally announcing any zone that has been faulted. It also offers smart home automation control so that a user can control their Z-Wave devices directly from the keypad, without having to go to the GC3 System itself or pull up the Alarm.com Mobile App. This includes the ability to execute any Z-Wave Smart Scenes that have been established. The SP1 also provides the current weather data so that the user can get a quick look at the local forecast.

The SP1 and SP2 can both be purchased from the Alarm Grid website. Add a secondary keypad to your GC3 System and make your life more convenient!

Alarm Grid has received news from Honeywell that the iOS version of the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App has recently been updated. This update brings a few new changes to the end user experience. Please note that these changes only apply to the iOS version of TC2, and not the Android version.

With the update, it is now possible to enable the Total Connect 2.0 Alexa Skill for Amazon Alexa devices directly from the Total Connect 2.0 iOS Mobile App. Previously, this had to be done through the Alexa App. This will make it more convenient for users who are setting up an Alexa device to work with TC2.

Face identification and touch identification are now both available options for logging into the TC2 iOS Mobile App. The respective option must be enabled from within the settings menu of the app. Many users will prefer this login option over having to enter in their TC2 password.

The Locations Menu now displays the current security status for all of the locations associated with the user's Total Connect account. This will make it easier for a user to get quick information regarding the status of any particular system.

Honeywell also says that this update will offer various stability improvements and bug fixes. Overall, this update should provide a more pleasing experience for end users. If you have any questions about this update, please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at 888-818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST Monday thru Friday.

Hi DIYers! Today, we're highlighting another outstanding PowerG accessory, the DSC PG9911B. This is a wireless outdoor siren that offers impressive functionality and tremendous versatility, while still being remarkably easy to use and set up. it is one of the best sirens available today.

Traditionally, adding a siren to an alarm system wasn't necessarily an easy task. Most sirens had to be hardwired to the system and set up with a power supply and relay. Wireless sirens made the installation process much easier, as they only need to be mounted and programmed with the panel. But unfortunately, the initial wireless sirens didn't offer the same performance as hardwired sirens. And many of them couldn't be used outdoors.

But the DSC PG9911B proves that it is possible for a wireless siren to be both powerful and versatile. The PG9911B packs a serious punch with its 110 dB noise rating. This is about as loud as your average rock concert. Everyone will hear this siren activate, even in a large industrial complex. Bottomline, it is powerful. This makes the PG9911B excellent for increasing the volume of your current setup.

Also included with the DSC PG9911B is blue strobe light for providing visual indication of an alarm event. The strobe is extremely bright, and it grabs the user's attention to let them know that there is a serious problem that requires them to evacuate immediately. This is great for letting any hearing-challenged occupants know about the alarm occurrence. It makes the perfect complement to the 110 dB sounder.

And like any PowerG device, the versatility of the PG9911B second-to-none. It has a direct line-of-sight signal range of roughly 2 kilometers. That's more than 6,500 feet away from the alarm system! If that's not enough, the range can be effectively doubled with the DSC PG9920 Wireless Repeater. Since all PowerG devices are protected by 128-bit AES encryption the PG9911B is nearly impossible to hack or take over. It is indeed one of the most secure wireless devices available today. And its IP55 waterproof rating will allow it to stand up to whatever nature can dish out.

The DSC PG9911B Wireless Outdoor Siren can be used with any PowerG-compatible alarm system. This includes the all-new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. You can purchase the DSC PG9911B from Alarm Grid now. Get yours and boost the siren for your system!

Hi DIYers! We missed the last video recap with the Labor Day holiday. So we've got an extra large update for you this time! Joe, Jorge and Dylan are back, and they are ready to help you get the most out of your security system. Let's take a look at the newest how-to videos from Alarm Grid!

Honeywell VISTA vs Honeywell Lyric Alarm System

Joe explains the differences between a Honeywell VISTA System and the Honeywell Lyric Controller. A Honeywell VISTA System and the Lyric Controller are both Honeywell Alarm Panels, and they can both be used with Total Connect 2.0. The biggest difference between these panels is that the Lyric is an all-in-one wireless system, while VISTA Systems are hardwired. This means that a VISTA System will require an external keypad for operation and a wireless receiver for supporting any wireless sensors.

What Is Bypassing a Zone on a Security System?

Dylan shows viewers how to bypass zones on Honeywell Security Systems. Bypassing a zone will have specified zones on the system remain inactive while the rest of the system is armed. This can be useful for when a user doesn't want a particular sensor to cause an alarm on the system. For instance, if a user is arming away, but they want to leave a window open, they might bypass the door and window contact that is used with that particular window.

How Does Crash & Smash Work?

Joe discusses "Crash & Smash" and how it is used with Alarm.com. An alarm system must be set up with a central monitoring station to use Crash & Smash. If an intruder breaks into a building and destroys the alarm system, then Crash & Smash will allow an alarm event to still occur. With Crash & Smash, Alarm.com knows that either a disarm signal or an alarm event must occur after a system has been activated. If neither event occurs, then ADC will recognize that the system must have been destroyed, and emergency dispatch will be sent out.

Can I Convert My Wired Honeywell System to be Wireless?

Joe talks about having a hardwired Honeywell VISTA System work with wireless sensors. By adding a compatible wireless receiver, a Honeywell VISTA System can communicate with wireless Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors. It is also possible to take wired sensors and connect them with a compatible wired to wireless converter, like the Honeywell 5800C2W. Then, as long as the VISTA has a wireless receiver, the hardwired sensors can be used with the VISTA as wireless sensors. This can eliminate the need for running wires across the entire building.

Does a 2GIG GC3 Require an Internet Connection?

Joe discusses how a 2GIG GC3 does not necessarily require an internet connection for alarm monitoring. The 2GIG GC3 can communicate with Alarm.com and a central monitoring station through a cellular connection. Cellular connectivity is required for a GC3 System to receive monitoring service. A cellular communicator must be added to the GC3 for this purpose. But the GC3 can still connect to WIFI for a dual-path communication setup. The system comes included with a built-in WIFI card.

Can I Use a 2GIG GC3 Without Alarm.com?

Joe explains how Alarm.com is required for the 2GIG GC3 to receive monitoring service. However, the system can be used as a local sounder without Alarm.com. This will still allow the system to activate a siren during an alarm event. This can be useful for letting building occupants know about an alarm. But without Alarm.com, the GC3 System will have no way of alerting off-site users or requesting automatic emergency dispatch from a central monitoring station.

Capabilities of the Lyric SiXSIREN Video

Joe goes over the functions and features of the Honeywell SiXSIREN. This is an external siren that is designed exclusively for use with the Honeywell Lyric Security Controller. The wireless siren can be mounted in a separate location from the panel to provide an alarm notification to a second part of the building. Both the SiXSIREN and the Lyric internal siren operate at a 85 dB, so a SiXSIREN won't make the alarm louder. But it can be good for spreading the alarm across a larger area. The SiXSIREN LED light provides visual indication of an alarm.

Changing the Installer Code on a LYNX Touch Security System

Joe explains how to change the Installer Code on a Honeywell LYNX Touch Alarm System. We usually advise users to keep their system Installer Codes at their default. This way, if a user ever forgets their Installer Code, they can look up the default Installer Code and get back into programming. But if a user changed their Installer Code and forgot it, then they would have to use the backdoor method to get back in. However, it is still possible to change the Installer Code for a LYNX Touch if desired.

Using Simon XTi with Total Connect

Dylan explains how the Interlogix Simon XTi cannot be used with Total Connect 2.0. The Total Connect 2.0 service is designed for Honeywell Systems only. The Simon XTi is manufacturer by Interlogix, and it is not compatible with Total Connect. Instead, the Interlogix Simon XTi can be used with the Alarm.com service. Alarm.com will offer similar functions and features as Total Connect 2.0. A cellular connection is required for the Simon XTi to be used with Alarm.com.

How Do You Delete a Honeywell Wireless Device?

Jorge shows users how to delete wireless sensors from their Honeywell Alarm Systems. This is done through system programming. A user will need to know the system's Installer Code to access programming. The default Installer Code for almost all Honeywell Systems is 4112. Once a wireless sensor has been deleted, it will need to be reprogrammed if the user wants to use that sensor with the system. A deleted sensor will no longer send alerts or notifications to the alarm system.

How Do I Enable the Receiver in a 6160RF?

Joe demonstrates how to enabled with wireless receiver inside a Honeywell 6160RF Keypad that is used with a Honeywell VISTA Alarm Panel. This is necessary for using wireless sensors with the system. Not only can the 6160RF be used as a primary controller for a VISTA System, it also provides a functional wireless receiver for the system. Once the wireless receiver for the 6160RF has been enabled, wireless sensors can be learned-in using the keypad. But it is important to remember that each VISTA System can only support a limited number of zones.

Resetting an Interlogix Simon XT to Factory Defaults

Jorge shows users how to reset the Interlogix Simon XT System to factory default settings. Defaulting the Simon XT will delete all sensors from the system, and it will clear any user codes that have been set up. Both the Installer Code and the Master Code will be restored to their default values. Because any sensor will need to be reprogrammed, we only recommend defaulting the system if it is absolutely needed. But defaulting the system can be useful in certain situations.

How Do I Un-Bypass a Bypassed Zone on a Honeywell System?

Jorge demonstrates how to un-bypass a zone that is currently bypassed on a Honeywell System. A bypassed zone will remain inactive when the rest of the system is armed. By un-bypassing a zone, the zone will once again be active when the system is armed. The advantage to bypassing and un-bypassing later is that the user will not have to delete the sensor and reprogram it later. They can simply bypass the sensor and then un-bypass it later, and the sensor will work perfectly with all of the settings still programmed.

Hi DIYers! Some of the most important sensors used with alarm systems are passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors. When installed properly, these devices do an excellent job of detecting any motion that can occur inside a home or business. They are critical for a complete security setup.

But while motion sensors provide many great benefits for alarm systems, they are also some of the most prone to experiencing problems and issues. These problems are usually the result of PIR motion sensors being mounted poorly and/or in unsuitable locations. Problems may also occur if a motion sensor is ever used in an improper application or setting for its intended use.

By obtaining a better understanding of motion sensors and how they operate, a user is less likely to experience reoccurring problems with their PIR motion sensor. Just a few tips and general guidelines need to be followed. It all comes down to installing the motion sensor correctly, selecting a good location for the device and choosing the correct type of PIR sensor. If these three tips are followed, then a motion sensor will be much more likely to work properly.

First, it's a good idea to understand what a motion detector is trying to accomplish and how it works. The goal of a good motion sensor is to detect the motion of a human intruder, while also ignoring unimportant sources of motion, like a ceiling fan, curtains or a pet. But this is easier said than done. If a motion is too sensitive, then false alarms will occur. But if it isn't sensitive enough, then it won't detect intruders.

A PIR motion sensor works by taking a reading of the infrared (IR) energy in a room and detecting any significant changes in IR energy that occur. All people, animals and objects give off some amount of IR energy. When a person, animal or object comes into the field of view of the motion sensor, it causes a change in detected IR energy. Once the motion sensor has detected enough of a change, it will send an alert to the alarm system to let it know that motion is present. The alarm system will then respond accordingly based on the programming settings.

But most users wouldn't want a motion sensor to activate because of very tiny changes in IR energy. This would cause too many false alarms on the system. That is why motion sensors usually have sensitivity levels that can be adjusted through an adjustable pulse count. The pulse count determines how large of an area needs to experience a change in IR energy before the motion will activate. A higher pulse count will mean that a wider change in IR energy is needed to activate the motion detector, thereby making the sensor less sensitive. Likewise, a lower pulse count will increase the sensitivity. Many motion sensors also have lenses that can be swapped out to provide the optimal view for the device.

But it's important to remember that a PIR motion sensor will only work if it can "see" the movement. That is why it is critical that a motion sensor is mounted at a height where it can properly detect a human intruder. A hypothetical scenario is to imagine a motion sensor that is mounted too high up. In that case, a person could just duck down and move below the field of view without setting off the motion sensor.

Most motion sensors are mounted at a height of about 6 to 8 feet high. This should allow the device to detect any human moving in the room. For optimal coverage, we generally recommend mounting motion sensors in the corner of a room. But mounting height becomes even more important for "pet-friendly" motion sensors. The goal of a pet-immune motion sensor is to detect the motion of a human walking upright, while still ignoring the motion of a small animal walking close to the ground.

Users should realize that pets can still set-off pet immune motion sensors, even if the pet is within the suggested weight limit. But the goal is to prevent this from happening. By setting up the motion sensor correctly and by making it impossible for the pet to get within the field of view (FOV) of the motion sensor, false alarms are much less likely to occur because of the activities of pets.

If a user intends on using a PIR motion sensor in a home with pets, they should first make sure their PIR motion detector offers pet-immunity. A pet-immune motion sensor features a lens that is designed to detect the motion of a human walking upright, while ignoring the movement of pets closer to the ground. If a motion does not have this special type of lens, then it will still see a pet moving throughout the room.

Second, a user should make sure that their pet is within the listed weight limit of the motion sensor. The idea here is that pets that weigh more are usually larger in size. So if a dog is 60 pounds, it is estimated that it will be large enough to set off a pet-friendly motion sensor for pets rated for up to 40 pounds. Of course, the pet-immunity values provided from motion sensor manufacturers are rough estimates. But these values should still be taken into account when planning.

Third, the motion sensor should be mounted at a proper height. It will need to be at a height where it can still detect the movement of a human, while ignoring the movement of a pet closer to the ground. Generally speaking, 7.5 feet high is a good height for accomplishing this. But this height can vary for different sensors. Also, the motion sensor should be mounted at a proper angle. If it is facing at too low of an angle, a pet might still set it off.

Finally, the motion sensor should not be facing any "obstacles" that a pet could climb on top of to get within the FOV of the sensor. Even if the motion sensor is mounted at a good height and at a proper angle, a pet can still manage to set it off if it is able to get up high enough. For example, a pet could climb on top of a sofa or walk up the stairs and get within the motion's FOV. For that reason, motion sensors shouldn't be mounted facing furniture or a stairway if pets are present.

There are also a few general guidelines that a person should follow when choosing a location for a PIR Motion. Remember, these devices respond based on changes in infrared energy. By installing a PIR motion near a vent or an air duct, the flow of hot or cold air could result in false alarms. A similar principle can be applied for appliances such as stoves and refrigerators. It is also advised that users do not install motions facing windows, as heavy sunlight could cause the device to activate. Additionally, motion sensors tend to work poorly in environments such as bathrooms, garages and attics, since they tend to feature high levels of humidity and/or dust. A user should also avoid mounting a motion sensor facing a moving ceiling fan or curtains, as this may result in false alarms.

Some users may also overlook the type of PIR motion sensor that is being used. Not all motion sensors are created equal, and there are many types of possible applications. For one, there are residential versus commercial motion sensors. Residential motion sensors are typically less sensitive and better-suited for homes and apartments. Pet-immunity features are usually only found on residential motion sensors. On the other hand, commercial motion sensors are usually more sensitive and feature lower pulse counts. A commercial motion sensor will also typically feature a larger FOV, making it more suitable for commercial settings.

Another common issue is to use an indoor motion sensor in an outdoor setting. Outdoor rated devices feature rugged exterior casings that protect the devices from exposure to rain, wind, dust and extreme temperatures. If a user tries to use an indoor motion sensor in an outdoor setting, then it is very likely that the device will become damaged due to environmental exposure. And while a user can use an outdoor motion sensor indoors, this is usually not recommended because outdoor motions are considerably more expensive. Make sure that the motion you use is suitable for the desired environment.

Following these tips will help ensure that your PIR motion sensor works properly and doesn't cause you problems. When used properly, these are great devices that do an excellent job of keeping homes and businesses secure. You can buy motion sensors of all types on the Alarm Grid website!