How Motion Sensors Work in Surveillance Cameras

Motion sensors work by detecting movements, sounds and energy transmissions which occur within a specified range of the device. Surveillance cameras employ motion sensors to monitor the areas surrounding the camera and can sometimes perceive motion as far away as 500 feet. Motion sensors that are used as part of surveillance cameras utilize mechanical and electronic detection to record activity.

Mechanical Detection

Surveillance cameras that have mechanical detection motion sensors require physical touch in order to trigger security alarms. Auto alarm systems most often employ mechanical detection motion sensors that sound an audible alarm when the vehicle is bumped, scratched or if an intruder is trying to break into the car. Banks and other businesses that fear burglary attempts also install mechanical detection motion sensors as a vital part of their surveillance systems so that if a vault or safe is being burglarized, the proper authorities can be dispatched to apprehend the suspects.

Electronic Detection

Motion sensors that use electronic detection to ascertain movement do not require bodily contact since optical, audible and energetic emissions can all stimulate detection by electronic motion sensors. Video surveillance systems which come equipped with electronic motion sensors often feature mounted cameras with swivel necks that turn in many different directions according to the electronic interruptions discerned by the camera. Every living thing emits a certain energetic frequency that is perceived by electronic motion sensors as a disturbance in the temperature of a given space. The energetic interruptions cause the video camera to turn to the inhabited area and record the motion detected there.

Surveillance systems using motion sensors with electronic detection are employed at many residential and commercial facilities and are offered through security companies for additional protection and peace of mind.