Troubleshooting Your Scout Motion Sensor
A motion sensor is a core component of your Scout alarm system, designed to provide a crucial layer of security. When it's not working correctly—either by failing to detect intruders or by triggering frustrating false alarms—it's essential to troubleshoot the issue promptly. This guide will help you diagnose and solve common problems with your Scout motion sensor.
## Problem: The Sensor is Not Detecting Motion
If you've tested the sensor by walking in front of it (while the system is disarmed) and it's not triggering, here are the steps to take.
- Check the Battery: The most common cause of a non-responsive sensor is a dead or low battery. Open the Scout mobile app and check the battery status for that specific sensor. If it's low, replace it with a new CR123A battery.
- Verify the Mode: Motion sensors are typically only active when your system is armed in 'Away' mode. They are automatically disabled in 'Home' mode to allow you to move around freely. Ensure you are testing it in the correct mode.
- Check the Connection to the Hub: The sensor communicates wirelessly with the Scout Hub. Ensure the sensor is within its maximum range (approximately 100 feet in open air). Large metal objects, like refrigerators or steel beams, can interfere with the signal. In the app, check if the sensor is showing as 'Offline'.
- Perform a Sensor Reboot: Remove the battery from the motion sensor. Wait for 30 seconds, then re-insert it. This will force the sensor to reboot and re-establish its connection with the Hub.
## Problem: The Sensor is Causing False Alarms
False alarms can be stressful and may even lead to fines from local authorities. They are almost always caused by incorrect placement or environmental factors. Scout motion sensors use Passive Infrared (PIR) technology, which detects rapid changes in temperature.
### Common Causes of False Alarms:
- Pets: While the sensor is designed to be pet-friendly (ignoring pets under 40 pounds), this works best when the pet cannot get too close. If a cat can climb on furniture directly in the sensor's line of sight, its body heat can be enough to trigger the alarm.
- Heat Sources: Never point a motion sensor directly at or near a heat source. This includes radiators, heating vents, fireplaces, ovens, or sun-drenched windows. A sudden blast of hot air from a furnace can easily cause a false trigger.
- Direct Sunlight: A beam of sunlight hitting the floor can rapidly heat that spot, which the PIR sensor will interpret as movement. Avoid pointing the sensor at windows that receive strong, direct sunlight.
- Moving Objects: Ensure there are no objects that can move on their own in the sensor's field of view, such as balloons, curtains near a drafty window, or hanging decorations.
## Best Practices for Sensor Placement
To ensure optimal performance and minimise false alarms, follow these placement guidelines:
- Height: Install the sensor on a flat wall approximately 7.5 feet (2.3 metres) off the ground.
- Location: The best location is in the corner of a room, as this provides the broadest possible coverage.
- View: Aim the sensor towards the most likely path an intruder would take, such as a doorway or a hallway.
- Avoid Obstructions: Make sure the sensor's view is not blocked by tall furniture, large plants, or other objects.
## Adjusting Settings in the Scout App
The Scout app gives you control over your sensor's behaviour.
- Sensitivity: In the device settings for the motion sensor, you can often adjust its sensitivity. If you have pets or are experiencing false alarms, try setting this to a lower level.
- Disable Sensor: You can temporarily disable a problematic sensor in the app. This is useful for troubleshooting while still being able to arm the rest of your system.
By carefully considering placement and checking the hardware, you can ensure your Scout motion sensor is a reliable and effective part of your home security setup.