Ultrasonic vs. Infrared Wireless Motion Detectors

Wireless motion detectors are among the most popular effective home security devices. These types of systems are available with ultrasonic and infrared technology. While these two types of detectors operate in similar ways, there are some differences, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Read on to learn more about the differences between ultrasonic and infrared motion detectors so you can determine which type is right for you.

Newest and Improved Technology

Wireless motion detectors have been around for several years. Bother infrared and ultrasonic technologies have undergone tremendous breakthroughs since their inception. Infrared technology has become more affordable as a home solution. However, ultrasonic motion detectors remain effective, but are not practical for home applications and have not progressed to the point of mainstream applications.

Sound vs. Visual

Infrared wireless motion detectors use the heat of a subject to activate it. The sensors inside the unit cast a field of vision which interprets the different temperatures. When something passes through that field of vision the filters removes anomalous data and transforms it into usable data. Infrared wireless motion detectors can be calibrated for sensitivity. The camera actually sees an image in a spectrum of light humans cannot see.

Ultrasonic wireless motion detectors do not use a visual cue or takes a picture. An ultrasonic motion detector uses sound waves to cast a net. As this sound wave hits an object the discrepancy is sent back to the detector. This echo is then translated into a picture to give an image of the object. If something changes position within this field the alarm will sound.

Casting a Wider Net

If you have a large property then ultrasound motion detectors are the best choice. The field of view of an infrared motion detector is very limited when compared to that of an ultrasonic motion detector. Because the motion detector uses sound to cast a shadow of an object the sound can travel much further before the signal degrades.

Signal Strength

Wireless motion detectors are more expensive than those that are wired. When dealing with anything that is wireless you will have marked signal degradation. This makes any wireless solution a very limited one. The stronger the equipment means that the signal is stronger and will last longer. Infrared motion detectors monitor at a constant whereas ultrasonic wireless motion detectors are continuously sending out sound waves to reflect back information.

Trace Signature

Infrared wireless motion detectors can detect a heat signature for several seconds as heat will interact with an environment. If a human touches a tree, a car or any other object they will transfer their heat to it. This will change the heat signature of that object for several seconds. Ultrasonic motion detectors make it possible for an object to hide or be masked behind other objects regardless of the signal strength.