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What are the Different Types of Motion Detector Light?
Most home security systems include motion detector lights as an added criminal deterrent. The motion detector light is a special light that is programmed to illuminate when an object passes through the path of the sensors beams. There are many types of these lights available. These include lights for a garage, driveways, patios, and porches. Each light is designed to create fully illuminated visibility over a specific perimeter.
When configuring the placement of a motion detector it is important to be watchful for small animals and trees. These objects may become an annoyance if they inadvertently turn on the motion detector lights throughout the night. A motion detector should be placed in a secure area that is free from tree obstruction and higher then most small animals can reach. This will ensure that a small breeze does not engage the motion lights during the evening.
A single halogen garage motion detector light is designed to be placed over a garage door entrance. The motion sensors on these lights are designed to automatically illuminate when a vehicle approaches within 12 feet (3.65 meters) of the garage area. This type of light can typically provide sufficient lighting coverage for approximately 25 feet (7.62 meters).
A solar-powered motion detector light is a good lighting source that also saves energy. These lights have small solar chargers that power the motion detector light during the evening hours. A solar-powered light requires adequate sunshine during the day. Additionally, a few cloudy days could drain the power of the solar light making it nonfunctional during the night.
A driveway motion detector is a good advanced-warning system for a homeowner. These motion detectors can be configured to a motion detector light and a small alert device inside the home. When an object passes through the motion sensor beam of the driveway, lights can be configured to automatically turn on at the external entrances of the home.
Many homes use motion detector lights to illuminate a walkway. This saves energy and provides light for a sidewalk area. With a walkway motion detector light, the lights turn on as a person walks on the sidewalk. The lights will then automatically turn off after a preset time passes.
Motion detector lights can also be added into home security surveillance systems. With this design, the lights are typically configured to illuminate near cameras and dark areas of a yard. This lighted area can then be recorded on video automatically when an intruder approaches a predefined parameter.
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![A solar-powered light saves energy but requires daytime sunshine.]()
By: ReicherA solar-powered light saves energy but requires daytime sunshine. -
![A motion detector light is a special light that is programmed to illuminate when an object passes through sensor beams.]()
By: shockyA motion detector light is a special light that is programmed to illuminate when an object passes through sensor beams. -
![A garage door light is a common security device that enables the homeowner to see the garage area surroundings before he or she enters into it.]()
By: trekandphotoA garage door light is a common security device that enables the homeowner to see the garage area surroundings before he or she enters into it. -
![Some motion detectors are designed to illuminate porches and outdoor areas.]()
By: Iriana ShiyanSome motion detectors are designed to illuminate porches and outdoor areas.
Discussion Comments
Is it possible to get a motion detector ceiling light that is also hooked up to a fan? I have a light and a fan on my porch and I spend a lot of time out there in the summer reading or listening to the night sounds. I would love it if i could just walk outside and have the light and the fan come on automatically. Surely I could pay an electrician to rig something up for me, but does anyone know of a model like this that is ready straight out of the box?
People usually think of motion sensor lights as a security measure, but they can also be used for safety and convenience.
I am usually up and down all night long going to the bathroom or getting a midnight snack or stepping outside to smoke a cigarette. I never liked lighting the house up in the middle of the night because it might disturb my wife and it seems like a waste. So I decided to install battery operated motion detector lights along some of the hallways and in the bathroom and kitchen. They only let off a small glow and do not hurt your eyes if you are unused to the light. They also come on automatically when you get close so you don't need to go fumbling for a switch. They have made my nocturnal meanderings so much easier.
You will definitely want to test the sensitivity of any motion sensor light that you are thinking of purchasing before you pay any money for it.These can vary widely and there are some that are just ridiculous to try to get to come on.
I bought one and installed it on the top of my garage. I waited for it to go off and then walked through my backyard to try and see at what spot the light would get activated. Well I made it all the way to the garage door and I was still cloaked in darkness. Turned out that you practically had to do jumping jacks to get the light to activate. I took it down the next day and exchanged it for one that might actually help me keep my home safe.
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