Motion sensors are security systems triggered by movement from people and other moving objects. Business motion detectors can be used to automate doors, activate an alarm, turn on lights, or any combination of these functions.

Depending on your needs, motion sensor light systems can be installed inside an office space or outside a building. Take the following into consideration when choosing motion sensor security:

1. Amount of area to be covered - square footage of rooms for internal needs, range of detection and number of vantage points for external needs;

2. Internal requirements for safety and security - certain rooms, doorways, windows, or all points of access; and

3. External needs - outward perimeter or close building protection.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Calculate the degree of motion sensor security coverage you need

Whether your business motion detector interior needs range from a single small room to a hallway or large storage area, there are motion sensor alarm and light products available to fit your budget. Exterior needs vary from a few feet surrounding a doorway or access point, to a few hundred yards outside a facility.

I recommend: Visit Norco Alarms, Inc., for a variety of motion detectors ranging from low cost alarm motion sensors for small space coverage to large range outdoor coverage capability. For easy online shopping, elights.com covers the spectrum of motion sensor needs.

Protect the interior with motion sensor security

People sensors without alarms during non-business hours give a sense of security in a darkened building. A motion sensor alarm aids in protecting the business from unwanted visitors.

I recommend: GE Security offers many motion sensor detectors which can trigger an alarm from door or window movement, any activity within a certain radius from an entry point, or cover any floor-to-ceiling motion. The Home Security Store offers a variety of motion sensors to fit any budget for DIY installation.

Light up the perimeter with an outdoor motion sensor for lights

Choosing the right amount of light can be an important decision. Bright, high wattage lighting may be required in order to record activity clearly, where lower intensity lights can be used in conjunction with an alarm if theft deterrence is the primary consideration. If the lights are used more for safety reasons or to light up a driveway, then a strong but not blinding wattage would suffice.

I recommend: RAB Lighting has numerous choices when it comes to choosing an outdoor motion sensor light needs ranging from triggered flood lights to small area lights. NexTag is also an abundant resource for motion sensors information.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Infrared, which uses heat patterns to detect motion, is a common technology with motion detection. Lower-tech capability is available via an ultrasonic motion detector which measures distance to a moving object by determining length of time it takes an ultrasonic pulse to return from the object.