Emerging Technology Alert: Wi-Fi Motion Detection
There’s some cutting-edge technology emerging that has the potential to eventually replace or augment traditional motion detection. It’s software that uses Wi-Fi equipment already installed at a customer premises to detect motion by interpreting changes in Wi-Fi signals.
According to Cognitive Systems, one of several companies developing the technology, Wi-Fi signals create ripples that change when there is motion in a room. Humans create different patterns than pets or electric fans and the software is sophisticated enough to tell the difference.
The technology could be used for security purposes by detecting intruders or for smart home purposes – for example, turning on a light when someone enters a room or adjusting the thermostat when someone gets home from work. It also has potential uses in wellness monitoring because it could generate an alert if an elderly person has not moved around by a certain time of the day.
If motion detection could be a function of a customer’s Wi-Fi equipment, will it be a threat to traditional security and smart home systems?
The Cognitive Systems web page suggests that the company sees the physical security industry as one of several channels for bringing Wi-Fi motion detection to market. The company indicates that it is interested in partnering with companies in the industry to augment traditional security systems and reduce false alarms. Other potential partners might include internet service providers and Wi-Fi equipment makers, according to the website.
The idea of obtaining motion detection functionality from Wi-Fi equipment, which is found at virtually every internet-connected home, would seem to have considerable appeal for those security and smart home customers who would prefer not to have traditional motion detectors.
At SES, we will be keeping an eye on developments in this area, and we will aim to update our customers whenever we learn of new product offerings that would be of interest to security dealers.
Security Equipment Supply (SES) is a leading wholesale security, smart home, access control and audio/video equipment distributor in the U.S. with 37 years of experience serving security professionals. We carry a full line of security and smart home equipment, and our knowledgeable salespeople can help dealers with selecting the right equipment for their installations.