A Guide to Doorbird Motion Detection
The motion detection feature on your Doorbird video intercom is one of its most powerful security tools. When configured correctly, it can instantly alert you to any activity outside your door, allowing you to see who is there and take action, whether you are at home or away.
This guide will walk you through understanding, configuring, and optimising the motion detection settings for your Doorbird device to ensure you receive timely and accurate alerts.
Understanding Doorbird's 4D Motion Sensor
Doorbird devices are equipped with an advanced 4D motion sensor. It uses a combination of technologies to provide reliable motion detection:
- Passive Infrared (PIR) Sensor: This detects changes in infrared radiation (body heat) as people or animals move within its detection range.
- Video Analytics: The camera itself analyses changes in pixels between frames to identify movement.
By using these methods together, Doorbird can provide more accurate detection and reduce the number of false alerts caused by things like moving shadows or rustling leaves.
How to Configure Motion Detection in the Doorbird App
Setting up and fine-tuning your motion sensor is done entirely within the Doorbird application on your smartphone or tablet.
1. Accessing the Motion Sensor Settings
- Open the Doorbird app.
- Navigate to 'Settings' > 'Administration' and log in with your administrator credentials.
- Select the 'Motion Sensor' option from the menu.
2. Key Settings to Configure
Inside the motion sensor menu, you will find several important options that you can customise.
- Enable Motion Sensor: The first step is to ensure the motion sensor is turned on. There will be a simple toggle switch to enable or disable the feature.
- Sensitivity: This setting controls how much movement is required to trigger an alert. A higher sensitivity will detect smaller movements but may also lead to more false alarms. Start with a medium setting and adjust as needed based on your testing.
- Distance: The integrated 4D motion sensor's range can be configured. You can set the detection distance in metres (from 1 to 10 metres, depending on the model) to match your specific environment.
- Defining Motion Areas: One of the most useful features is the ability to draw detection zones. The app will show you the camera's live view, and you can draw one or more polygons to define the exact areas where you want to detect motion. This is essential for excluding public footpaths, roads, or neighbours' gardens.
3. Setting Up Schedules and Alerts
Once the sensor is configured, you need to decide when it should be active and how you want to be notified.
- Scheduling: In the 'Schedule for Motion' section, you can create a timetable for when the motion sensor should be armed. For instance, you might not need alerts during the day when you are home but want it active overnight.
- Push Notifications: To receive alerts on your phone, you must configure push notifications. Go to 'Settings' > 'Push Notifications' and ensure you have an event set up for 'Motion'. You can link this to the schedule you created.
- Other Actions: Doorbird allows you to trigger other actions on motion, such as sounding a relay to turn on a light or sending an HTTP(S) call to another smart home device. These are configured in the 'Actions' section.
Best Practices for Optimal Performance
- Test and Adjust: After your initial setup, walk in front of the Doorbird at various distances to test the detection. Adjust the sensitivity and motion zones until you are happy with the results.
- Keep the Lens Clean: A clear view is essential for video-based motion detection. Regularly wipe the camera lens and sensor area with a soft, clean cloth.
- Consider the Environment: Be mindful of sources of false alerts, such as trees that sway in the wind or reflections from passing cars. Use motion zones to exclude these areas.
By taking the time to properly configure your Doorbird's motion detection, you can turn it into a highly effective and reliable security tool for your home.