Burglary protection with motion detectors
Motion detectors increase safety - when parking in the garage, on paths and in stairwell areas. In addition to providing better orientation, they also increase burglary protection, as burglars generally look for easy ways to gain access unnoticed. Sensor-controlled light puts a spanner in the works.
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Home security against burglary consists of many factors, including doors, windows and locks through to building technology, e.g. with automated shutters and blinds. Sensor-controlled lighting and smart devices, e.g. outdoor cameras integrated into the WLAN, networked sensors and smart alarm systems, can further increase home security.
Where are motion detectors used for burglary protection?
For comprehensive burglary protection with motion detectors, it is important to illuminate more than just the main entrance. Side and rear entrances as well as windows and narrow entrances around the house must also be secured. These entrances are preferred by burglars as they are often not directly visible.
Facade and rear of the house
Smart alarm systems
Smart alarm systems use modern sensors to detect burglary attempts and report them immediately to the resident's smartphone. As with other smart home devices, smart alarm systems are usually connected to the WLAN via an access point. It can then be accessed from anywhere and at any time using a cell phone. Additional components can be used to expand and supplement the building security, e.g. with additional door and window sensors, separate motion detectors, smart cameras, indoor and outdoor sirens as well as smoke and heat detectors. Thanks to smart networking, these components can be connected to each other wirelessly and combined as required.
Kai Krzyzelewski
Copywriter & concept developer at Lights.ie
Expert tip
When dark corners are illuminated by sensor-controlled light, the house becomes a more difficult target for burglars, because not only you but also your neighbors become aware of the suddenly switched-on light. However, no matter how smart the protective measures are, full letterboxes are an indication that nobody is at home. Asking your neighbor to empty it regularly during the vacations is part of effective burglary prevention.
Further topics
FAQ: All about burglary protection
Light is an important component of burglary protection. Dark corners are efficiently illuminated when movement is detected. This makes the house a difficult target for burglars. If the light switches on, the neighbors also become aware of it. They can usually easily tell whether it is the homeowner or a burglar.
To achieve a deterrent effect, the lamp must reach 100 % brightness as soon as it is activated. It must also be switch-proof - frequent on and off must not significantly impair the service life. These conditions are optimally covered by LED lighting technology.
Different technologies are used for motion detectors. Infrared sensors (PIR) react to the approach of moving heat sources, e.g. people and vehicles. They are reliable, but are more likely to detect lateral movements than frontal movements towards the sensor. Intelligent high-frequency sensors (iHF, also known as radar sensors) work via electromagnetic waves and can distinguish animals from humans. They detect movements regardless of direction and in some cases even through thin walls or doors. Image processing camera sensors evaluate recorded image content. If a change occurs or certain image elements are detected, the motion detector responds. Most camera sensors can easily distinguish people from animals.
Each luminaire with motion detector as well as separate motion detectors must be tested and optimally adjusted after installation in order to cover the entire area to be protected without any blind spots. The light or detector should also be mounted as high as possible so that it is not easy for a burglar to reach. Many motion detectors are horizontally and/or vertically pivoting optical systems. The optimum alignment of the motion detector is usually checked by another person. This allows for easy readjustment.
Burglars prefer easily accessible buildings where no one is at home and where they can approach without being seen. If this is not the case, the burglar will focus on an easier target. With an intelligent presence simulation of smart home lamps and lights, it is easy to create the impression of a lively home. Smart light sources in different rooms can be programmed via app. This creates the impression of "everyday life" in the property. To the guide: Retrofitting smart lighting.
Separate, smart motion sensors such as the Outdoor sensor from Philips Hue can be used to control selected lights and monitor the property in a customized manner. The sensors are positioned separately from the luminaire depending on the application, e.g. in terms of height, at a corner or at the start of the driveway. Several motion detectors can address one and the same luminaire so that comprehensive monitoring is possible. Depending on the product, the separate motion detector also requires no additional power connection, which simplifies individual placement.