As the days get shorter and the nights longer porch lights become visible throughout the neighborhood, but it is motion sensor lights that cause the kids to run across yards "playing with an invisible friend". Motion sensor lights are really two pieces of technology melded together to make a useful new device. Even though lights are a bit more sophisticated than when Ben Franklin was around, the basic premise is the same. The real leap forward was the invention of the motion sensor by Léon Theremin.
The motion sensor contains a sensor that translates motion into an electrical signal. The electrical signal then triggers the light. Obviously the motion sensor has to calibrated to ensure that it is sensitive enough to detect large objects moving and not so sensitive that it detects tiny things. The sensitivity is probably the most important aspect of a motion sensor light. If a motion sensor is so sensitive that small animals, such as cats, trigger it all the time then the light will likely be ignored. If the sensor does not detect larger objects then it will not be able to serve its purpose, illuminate the area.
Although the sensitivity of the motion sensor is the most important aspect, a sufficient light is still required to complete the set. One should ask themselves a few important questions when determining the correct light. How large of an area is required to be illuminated? Is the area omni-directional? Are there limits on how bright the light can be? If the area to be illuminated is only 5-10 feet in-front of a door then a smaller light suffice, but if you are looking to illuminate 50-100 feet covering an entire yard then a flood light might be required.
Once you have decided what type of motion sensor light you need the next step is to locate one. A search of Home Depot, Lowes, or other similar stores will show that motion sensor lights run from under $20 to over $100. There are two additional categories to consider before you purchase. Do you want a motion sensor light that will be plugged into an outlet, or do you want one that needs to be hardwired? The obvious advantage of the one that you plug in is that you do not require an electrician if you already have an outlet, but the disadvantage is that someone could unplug the motion sensor light. The advantage and disadvantage of hardwiring one is the exact opposite. Consider what is most important to you and enjoy shopping for that new toy for the kids that just happens to double as an integral part of any security system. Visit motion sensor lights or motion sensor alarm for further information.