ESA Certified Alarm Technician Practice Exam

Choosing not to mount the PIR sensor upside down will most likely result in what?

1. Reduced dead zone

2. Increased false alarms

3. Better energy efficiency

4. Wider detection range

The correct answer is: Increased false alarms

Choosing not to mount the PIR (Passive Infrared) sensor upside down is most likely to result in an increased number of false alarms. PIR sensors are designed to detect the infrared radiation emitted by bodies, typically within a specific mounting angle. When a PIR sensor is mounted incorrectly, such as upside down, it may misinterpret environmental changes, such as animals moving, heat from appliances, or even changes in ambient temperature as valid signals. This can lead to a higher likelihood of false alarms, as the sensor is not accurately interpreting its designated field of view and may be triggered by non-threatening movements or heat sources. Additionally, mounting a PIR sensor correctly is crucial for ensuring that it functions effectively within its intended detection parameters, allowing it to provide the best balance between sensitivity and false alarm reduction.