How to Bypass Motion Sensor Doors From the Outside

Motion-sensing alarms emit invisible infrared beams to detect intruders.

Businesses and homeowners have valuable property to protect, and motion-detecting alarm systems are a common tool for theft prevention. Most motion-detecting alarms guard the building's interior, activating whenever a person crosses the path of the alarm's infrared beams. Some people use motion-sensing alarms to guard doors and other room entrances. If you have access to the alarm box, you can bypass it to go through the door undetected.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Knife or scissors

Instructions

1. Remove the motion sensor's front cover. Most covers come off when you pull them. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws in the cover, if necessary.

2. Locate the two unmarked alarm circuit wires inside the alarm panel. Wires marked either "6VDC" or "12VDC" are voltage wires. Do not remove the voltage wires.

3. Disconnect the two alarm circuit wires. Peel back the outer insulation. If you cannot remove the insulation with your hands, use a sharp knife or scissors. Take care not to cut the wires.

4. Twist the two bare wires together. This bypasses the alarm's motion-sensing function when you turn the device back on, allowing you to go through the door undetected.

Tips & Warnings

• You can bypass some motion sensors by simply covering them with something, such as a shirt or piece of cardboard.

• Do not try to bypass an alarm if you have no legal right to enter the home or building.

References

• Security Guy: Bypass Motion Sensor Alarms

Resources

• Collier County Sherrif's Office: Online False Alarm Awareness Course (PDF)