Microwave motion alarms and how they work
This type of alarm uses microwave energy to detect movement and trigger a signal, usually an audible alarm. The device emits microwaves within a given area, which then bounce off any obstacle that may be present and return to the source. The frequency of these returning waves is then measured and analyzed. If someone or something enters that area, it will cause a disturbance in the flow of microwaves and change the frequency. Once the sensor detects this, a signal will be transmitted to a remote device and the alarm will be set off.

Microwaves are advantageous in that they work better at covering a larger area. Microwave energy can also pass through obstacles, so this type of alarm can be comfortably placed behind walls, for example, and still work. The only drawback is that microwave motion alarms are quite sensitive and will react to electrical gadgets such as radios, wireless phones, etc.

Another issue about the sensitivity of microwave motion alarms is that they tend to react at the slightest disturbance, which can often lead to false alarms. Their sensitivity level can be adjusted, however, so they can fit the environment where they are installed.

Infrared motion alarms and how they work
This type of alarm was developed in the 80s and has since become the most popular technology used for security systems. An infrared-powered security device uses light energy that is in the frequency beyond the limit of visible light, which is red – hence the name ‘infrared’. The wavelength of infrared light is longer than lightwaves and shorter than radio waves, making it ideal for use in detecting heat.

In order for it to work as a type of alarm, an infrared device uses a sensor that detects and measures the temperature of an object that passes through the beam of light coming from the device. If it measures sufficient heat, such as that coming from a human body, the sensor will trigger an alarm.

Infrared motion alarms are cost-effective, making them a top choice as security devices. They cannot provide coverage for a full area but if installed in the right location, they can be very helpful for catching intruders in the act.

People who are being stalked
Being stalked is one dilemma that can have serious consequences. People who have stalkers feel unsafe and unprotected and have to live with the possibility that they could be attacked at any time. Many stalkers even phone their victims, usually to make small talk in an attempt to make a connection. However, most stalking incidents escalate and become violent or threatening at the very least.

With the help of a phone recorder, threats made over the phone by a stalker will be recorded and used as evidence later, in case the victim requires police protection or decides to sue.

People who get prank calls
Prank callers don’t need a rational reason to do what they do. If you have been a victim yourself, you know how troublesome they can be. If prank calls are frequent and involve threats or inappropriate statements, consider using a phone recorder to make a record of the incidents.

People who are suspecting their spouses of cheating
Phone recorders are often used as part of a surveillance system to catch cheating spouses. Since this device can record incoming and outgoing conversations, people will be able to determine whether or not their spouses are being unfaithful.

People who want to protect their children from predators
Child predation is a very serious threat. Predators have hundreds of ways to find, locate and communicate with their potential victims – calling them up personally is just one of them.

If you are suspicious that your child is being stalked or is potentially at risk from a child predator, you can use a phone recorder to record phone calls. You can later review the recording to determine if the conversation is unsafe or questionable and use it as evidence that your child is in danger.

People who are being harassed
Harassment can come in all forms, the most common of which involves verbal threats or abuse. It can also involve anyone from ex-spouses and troublesome relatives to rowdy neighbors and determined scam artists. If the harassment occurs verbally, it may be difficult for you to prove that you are being badgered unnecessarily unless you are able to produce proof. With a phone recorder, you not only record the conversation, you can also record the time, date and frequency those harassing calls occur.