Motion Sensor Door Chime

A motion sensor door chime for the detection of people and animals typically uses passive infrared (PIR) sensor technology. This is an electronic sensor that measures the infrared energy emitted by people and animals within its operating range.

Emphasis must be made that all objects, especially organisms like humans and animals, with a temperature above absolute zero give off heat energy. The heat energy comes in the form of radiation, which is invisible to the naked eye but can be picked up by especially-designed devices. This is where a motion sensor system comes in. 

The term “passive” in PIR sensors refers to the fact that the devices neither produce nor radiate energy in the detection process. Instead, these work by detecting and measuring the energy emitted by other objects.  The heat energy itself isn’t the energy being detected and measured – it’s the infrared radiation.

This the detection technology used in the Doberman Security Motion Alarm Detector with Infrared Sensor. Let’s take a look at its features so that you can make a smart purchasing decision, if necessary.

Notable Features

The Doberman motion sensor door chime has the following features according to the manufacturer:

·         Infrared sensor triggers the alarm

·         100 dB alarm

·         15 feet operating range

·         60 degrees range vertically and horizontally

The sensor can be placed almost anywhere that a motion detector is needed. You can place it on a table although this isn’t a common method. Instead, the best places are on the wall or ceiling, as mounted using basic tools and supplies. 

Be sure to first determine the best location for the infrared sensor before finally mounting it. Keep in mind that the operating range is only 15 feet from the sensor. The degree of angle is ideally 60 degrees on the vertical and horizontal plane.

You may have to experiment with the placement and angle before getting your desired results. Otherwise, you can end up with one too many false alarms, which will defeat the sensors’ purpose. You shouldn’t take long in finding the best position since the unit also comes with a swivel mounting bracket.

The motion-activated sensor works when it detects changes in the infrared energy within 15 feet, its operating range. When a person or animal is detected, the sensor sends a signal to the receiver within seconds after the detection. The receiver, in turn, will activate the signal to sound the alarm.

And what an alarm it is! While it isn’t as loud as a jackhammer, the 100-decibel alarm will certainly be loud enough to wake up sleeping persons.  This has two effects – the burglar will likely be startled into running away and you can take the right action, such as calling the police.

Even the burglar running away is already a blessing for people who want to avoid nasty confrontations with intruders.  Many parents even use the alarm as a way to deter their children from being kidnapped in their homes. The alarm is placed on the stairs going up to the bedrooms every night such that people going up will trigger its loud sound. 

A few customers complain about the blinking red light on the sensor, which can alert an intruder about its presence. But this is a minor issue that can easily be resolved by covering the small light with a small piece of black electrical tape. This is also true if the small blinking light becomes a distraction when in it’s in your line of sight. 

The motion sensor door chime is also easy to install. While it isn’t like other stick-and-peel door sensors, it only requires two screws (included in the package) and a screwdriver to mount. You’re likely to spend 5 minutes or so on the actual mounting task itself. 

Better yet, you can just place it on a flat surface where you want security in the form of motion detection – no mounting involved.  Just turn it off and keep it in a safe place when it’s not yet needed. You have to remember that it can detect the motions of pets, which can mean unnecessary sounding of alarms. 

Emphasis must also be made on two points. First, this isn’t a fool-proof security system because of the possibility of false alarms brought by various reasons. Second, this can only detect people and animals but less chance of detecting vehicles. 

For these reasons, you should consider combining the motion sensor with other security measures, especially if you’re after better security measures. These can include closed circuit television systems, magnetic sensors on doors and windows, and perhaps even a guard dog. But for average home or business security needs, this PIR sensor will suffice for the purpose. 

For example, a buyer combined the motion sensor with a door sensor. By activating the motion sensor, he can leave the door open during hot weather yet still be alerted when someone comes in. 

Pros of the Product

The Doberman Security Motion Alarm Detector provides the following benefits proper installation and use:

·         Gives a chime or alarm when people and pets are detected within the operating range

·         Provides a loud siren that can wake up even a sound sleeper while the chime gives off a softer sound (i.e., like a European police siren)

·         Easy to install with screws and screwdriver

·         Suitable for mounting on any flat surface without being screwed into place

·         Easy to use alarm

·         Easy to conceal because of its compact size

In short, the unit works as well as can be expected, especially in giving alarms at appropriate times.

Cons of the Product

These are the disadvantages of the product:

·         No grace period to disarm it, which can be an inconvenience for owners (i.e., the electronic eye is ultra-sensitive)

·         Easy to turn off by manually sliding the switch to its off position, which a burglar can take advantage of

·         Chime can be too loud for some people

Who Is It Best For?

The Doberman Security Motion Alarm Detector is a great basic alarm system for home and business owners. The chiming sounds are sufficient to alert owners about the presence of people and animals within the operating range, a must for these types of products. 

Verdict - Should I Buy It?

Yes, this is a satisfactory product despite its basic features. But if you’re looking for more advanced features, then this isn’t the right product for your needs.