AI VS Motion Detector: A Comprehensive Comparison of Passive Infra-Red and Microwave Technologies with AI-Based Camera Analytics for Enhanced Outdoor Perimeter Protection and Security Solutions
Do you want to stay one step ahead of intruders on your property? Remote video monitoring is an effective way to do this, and today’s options come with some interesting features. Two of the most popular choices are Passive Infrared & Microwave (PIR) Sensors or AI-based cameras. But which option is best for you?
While both technologies have their pros and cons, which one comes out on top when it comes to outdoor perimeter protection? Does today’s advanced camera analytics surpass PIR & Microwave sensors? Are there cases in which one is better suited than the other?
In this blog post, we’ll compare PIR & Microwave vs AI-based camera analytical systems so that you can decide which delivers the better intelligence when it comes to remote video monitoring
Keep reading to find out…
PIR and Microwave Motion Detectors
Passive Infra-Red (PIR) and Microwave Technologies play an important role in remote video monitoring. PIR is used to sense movement within a certain area and can generate signals that trigger recording devices such as cameras.
This makes it ideal for surveillance applications where detecting motion is the primary goal, such as security systems or wildlife monitoring.
Microwave technologies can be used to detect objects in the distance, making them suitable for applications where identifying objects at a distance is important such as military surveillance or traffic monitoring.
Both PIR and microwave technologies can be combined with cameras and other recording devices to provide an effective way of remotely monitoring events from afar.
PIR and Microwave Motion Detectors offer an effective way to monitor remote locations. By installing motion detectors in strategic locations, businesses can keep a watchful eye on their property from a distance. Combined with a video surveillance system, these motion detectors can provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind for businesses.
*It is important to note that only a combination of PIR and Microwave motion detectors is efficient and reliable for outdoor perimeter protection. Using only one of those two technologies would result in an excessive number of unfounded events.
The Science behind PIR and Microwave Motion Detectors
PIR sensors work by detecting infrared radiation, which is emitted by objects with a temperature above absolute zero. When an object passes in front of a PIR sensor, the sensor will detect a change in the infrared radiation pattern, triggering an alarm.
Microwave motion detectors use microwaves to detect movement. When an object passes in front of the sensor, it causes a change in the reflected microwave pattern. The detector then triggers an alarm.
Together, PIR sensors measure infrared radiation given off by warm objects, while microwave detectors transmit high-frequency signals and measure the reflection or movement of objects near their antennas.
AI-Based Camera Analytics
Remote video monitoring and AI-based camera analytics technologies are transforming the way companies monitor their premises. These technologies provide real-time insights, data accuracy, and proactive security measures that traditional security systems can’t offer.
With remote video monitoring, businesses can access live feeds from multiple cameras located in different areas within a single platform, enabling them to monitor activity from anywhere with an internet connection.
AI-based camera analytics can automatically alert users of suspicious or abnormal activities, such as people entering or exiting unauthorized areas or unauthorized objects being left behind.
Additionally, these technologies can identify objects and persons in real-time using visual recognition algorithms, providing a more accurate security measure compared to standard surveillance systems.
Businesses can now make decisions and respond to potential threats more quickly than ever before, improving safety and security on their premises.
Remote video monitoring and AI-based camera analytics technologies are revolutionizing the way businesses monitor their facilities, providing greater control over access, improved data accuracy, and proactive security measures that standard surveillance systems can’t offer.
The Science Behind AI-Based Camera Analytics
Computer vision is the use of algorithms to interpret visual data, such as images and videos. Image processing is the manipulation of digital images to enhance or extract useful information from them. Machine learning is the ability of algorithms to learn by recognizing patterns in data.
AI-based camera analytics uses a combination of computer vision, image processing, and machine learning to detect objects and events. It can also be used for retail analytics by recognizing customer behavior such as frequency of visits and time spent on the premises.
By combining these three technologies, AI-based camera analytics can detect objects and events in real time with a high degree of accuracy.
But how do computers learn to recognize objects? This Ted talk will please the geeks out there.
PIR & Microwave vs. AI-based camera analytical systems: Which is better for remote video monitoring?
While both PIR and microwave and AI-based camera analytical systems are popular choices for providing effective detection and remote video monitoring, several distinct differences could make one more suitable in certain scenarios. Let’s explore the respective pros and cons of each to help you decide which type best meets your needs when it comes to safeguarding your property.
PIR & Microwave
Pros
- Instant movement recognition.
- Efficient movement recognition despite obstructed view.
- Easy and quick installation.
- It works in complete darkness.
- A little less expensive than AI-based camera analytics.
Cons
- Short-detection range. (Long-range motion detectors tend to generate false events triggered by irrelevant moving objects.)
- 9-foot height restriction for device installation.
- Malfunctions and anomalies are impossible to detect remotely.
- It is hard to understand what triggered a false event.
- Low configuration possibilities.
- Camera installation is required to obtain a visual of the area covered by motion detectors.
- No metadata is available for events.
Camera Analytics
Pros
- There is a long and broad detection range.
- There is metadata available with each event, helping the operator to understand the situation.
- There are numerous configuration options. (area masking, zone priorities, movement direction, etc.)
- Malfunctions and anomalies are easily identifiable remotely.
- Fewer restrictions on installation requirements.
- Versatile AI applications. (human detection, slip and fall detection, loitering, occupancy management, etc.)
Cons
- Minimum time required for target detection.
- Luminosity is needed.
- It is more difficult to install and configure than PIR and microwave.
Discover a range of cutting-edge perimeter security solutions, and dive into our invaluable guide on remote video monitoring.
FAQs
How does AI differ from motion detection in video monitoring?
AI video object classification is more accurate than pixel-based motion detection. It can adapt to changes in lighting and camera angles and filters out false alarms caused by environmental factors. AI also provides real-time alerts, allowing operators to respond to incidents more quickly.
What are the benefits of using AI for remote video monitoring?
There are numerous advantages to using AI for remote video monitoring. Unlike humans, AI can monitor camera feeds indefinitely without becoming tired or distracted. It can also be set to detect specific changes, such as when a person, vehicle, or bike enters a predefined perimeter within the camera’s frame and alert the person watching the feeds.
However, the human element remains critical for situational awareness. When AI detects activity and alerts a security operator, the latter can assess the situation and determine whether it is a genuine security threat or something as innocuous as a passerby. This reduces false alarms, assists operators in identifying and anticipating new threats and risks, and improves overall security.
How does motion detection technology work in remote video monitoring?
Motion detection technology in remote video monitoring works by recording video based on CCTV cameras’ sensitivity to movement. These cameras measure the pixel difference between consecutive frames. The camera will turn on automatically if there is enough difference between frames. The level of sensitivity can be adjusted to detect major or minor movements.
How does AI technology reduce false alarms in remote video monitoring?
Through the use of license-free deep learning video analytics that run onboard high-definition cameras, AI technology reduces false alarms in remote video monitoring. These analytics provide high detection accuracy while reducing false alarms.
This is due to their ability to detect and classify multiple object types at the same time, such as people, vehicles, faces, and licence plates. AI technology can reduce false alarms caused by external variables and improve overall security by accurately identifying objects.
What does AI mean in security cameras?
The use of computer software programmes to analyze the audio and images from video surveillance cameras to recognize humans, vehicles, objects, attributes, and events is referred to as AI in security cameras.
This technology, known as “artificial intelligence for video surveillance,” employs advanced algorithms to locate and classify various items in real time. This allows for faster responses to potential security threats. Security cameras that use AI can eliminate false alarms caused by environmental elements, improving overall security and safety.
How accurate is AI detection?
AI detection provided by security cameras has the potential to be extremely accurate. AI security cameras’ object detection can detect a wide range of objects, including humans, vehicles, and licence plates, with up to 99% accuracy. This level of accuracy is due to AI technology’s advanced algorithms and deep learning capabilities, which can identify objects based on a variety of features and characteristics.
Which security cameras have AI detection?
There are several security cameras available on the market that have AI detection capabilities.
Here are a few:
Reolink’s 4-camera 8-channel kit
Night Owl’s 4K resolution 8-channel 4-camera
4mp IP Dome Camera, IR Night Vision, IP67 Indoor Outdoor, PoE ONVIF AI
4mp IP Bullet Camera, IR Night Vision, IP67 Indoor Outdoor, PoE ONVIF AI
How does motion AI work?
Motion AI analyzes video footage and detects motion using advanced algorithms and deep learning capabilities. When motion is detected, the AI system can classify it and send real-time alerts about potential security threats.
This technology is frequently employed in surveillance and monitoring systems, where it can provide a more accurate and efficient method of detecting and responding to potential security breaches. By continuously learning from and adapting to new circumstances, Motion AI can reduce false alarms and improve overall security.
Wrapping up
When it comes to outdoor perimeter protection, Passive Infra-Red (PIR) and Microwave technologies have been used for years. While these technologies have been effective, they can be easily triggered by false alarms due to motion from animals or other environmental factors.
Additionally, these technologies are limited in their ability to detect the difference between human or vehicle activity and animal motion.
On the other hand, AI-based camera analytics offer a more reliable and accurate solution for outdoor perimeter protection. AI-based camera analytics are able to better detect human or vehicle activity by utilizing deep learning algorithms that can distinguish the difference between human or vehicle activity and animal motion.
Additionally, AI-based camera analytics can be programmed to identify specific objects, such as intruders, vehicles, or weapons. This gives a more complete picture of the security situation and can lead to quicker and more accurate responses from law enforcement.
In a nutshell, for organizations with low-value goods and where theft is unlikely to occur, dual-tech motion detectors (PIR and microwave) can be an acceptable option. However, after a certain time, these detectors may stop working spontaneously.
Organizations become at risk for theft and vandalism as there is no way to detect malfunctions or anomalies remotely. If your business has a large perimeter to protect and theft is very likely, the use of camera analytics is recommended.
Final Verdict
AI-based cameras offer a more precise and reliable outdoor security solution than PIR and Microwave technologies, making them the ideal choice for perimeter protection.
Sirix’s solution
Sirix goes above and beyond to make sure that camera analytics works well. Every day, Sirix sends the integrator a list of problems and solutions to help reduce false alarms.
Example of our daily reports :
Problems :
- Outside boundary detection (Cam 9 Front Lot, NW Facing) (Drive-Trough)
- Numerous false alarms; spider and/or spider web on camera lens (Cam 6 NW Facing (Driveway)
Solutions :
- Clean the camera lens and refer to the recommendations under “Spider web issue”.
- Adjust masking (Cam 13 North lot, SE Facing (S Boulevard) and ensure that your new masking is tested both throughout the day and night when there is activity on-site.
What types of detection products do you use the most on protected sites?
- Video Analytics
- Lidar
- Radar
- Fence Detection
- Photoelectric Beams
- Microphone / Glass Break
- Microwave Sensors
- PIR/IR Motion Detector
- Door Contacts
Reach one of our experts to chat about your methods and how we can perhaps help.
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