How to Install Driveway Patrol Motion Detectors
Motion detectors offer a way to know when someone has entered your driveway. An alarm system not only adds security, but also makes it convenient for you to know when guests or deliveries have arrived. This article will explain how to select the location for the sensor and receiver as well as how to install both units. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure Pencil Screwdriver Exterior screws Drywall screws Small level
Instructions
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Select Appropriate Area for Sensor and Receiver
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Select an appropriate area to mount the sensor. If you live in a climate where you get snow, be sure to mount the sensor above the expected highest snowfall of the year. If that is not possible, be sure to mount it high enough that it won't be hard to dig out during high snowfalls. Be sure to avoid high pedestrian traffic areas. If your sidewalk is close to your driveway, aim the sensor across the driveway at an angle to reduce false alarms from children or pets walking through the area.
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Select an appropriate area to mount the receiver. Make sure that the receiver is within the range of the sensor. If you have small children who take naps, be sure to mount the receiver where it will not interrupt their sleep. Mounting the receiver close to a window allows you to be in the yard and still be able to hear the alarm when someone enters your driveway. For night-time security, you may want to consider mounting the receiver in, or close to, your bedroom.
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Test the range before installation to ensure the receiver will pick up the signal for the sensor. Put batteries in both the sensor and receiver. Place the sensor and the receiver in the area you chose for each. Have someone near the receiver while another person activates the sensor. If the receiver picks up the signal and activates the alarm, go ahead and install the motion detector. If the receiver does not pick up the signal, choose a new location for the receiver until you find a place in your home that allows the receiver to pick up the signal from the sensor.
Install the Sensor
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To mount the sensor on a stake, first put the stake in the ground.
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Measure from the ground to the height that you want the sensor and mark the board at the bottom of the sensor with a pencil.
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Measure the sensor from the bottom edge of the sensor to the holes where you will attach the sensor to the screws you will put in the stake. Measure the same distance from the mark on the mounting board and mark again to note the height for the screws.
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Measure the distance between mounting screws on the back of the sensor. Use a small level to keep the marks for the screws level and transfer this measurement to the mounting board at the mark you made for the height of the screws. Use exterior-grade screws so the screws don't rust and break over time.
Install the Receiver
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Mark the wall where you would like the bottom of the receiver.
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Measure the receiver from the bottom edge to the holes where you will attach the receiver to the screws you will put in the wall. Measure the same distance from the mark on the wall and mark again to note the height for the screws.
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Measure the distance between mounting screws on the back of the receiver. Use a small level to keep the marks for the screws level and transfer this measurement to the mounting board at the mark you made for the height of the screws. Use sheetrock screws or screws with a coarse thread.
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