UniFi Smart Sensor Review
A Comprehensive Guide Updated in 2024 by Gabriele P.
Ensuring the security of your home is now more effective with UniFi Protect cameras. These advanced cameras, especially the latest G4 models, have the ability to detect movement and even identify people and vehicles. To enhance your home's security system further, Ubiquiti has introduced the UniFi Smart Sensor. These sensors, which operate on batteries, are an excellent method to augment your in-home security.
The UniFi Smart Sensor is not just a motion detector; it is a versatile sensor equipped with multiple in-built features. These features are not limited to home protection; they also serve as triggers for various smart home applications.
In this analysis, we'll delve into the UniFi Smart Sensor, exploring its various applications and how it integrates with your UniFi Protect system.
UniFi Smart Sensor Analysis
The UniFi Smart Sensor stands out as one of the most adaptable sensors in the smart home market. To ensure your home's security, relying solely on perimeter-monitoring cameras is insufficient. Integrating entry sensors on doors and windows, as well as motion detectors inside your home, is crucial for a robust home security setup.
The smart sensor is notable for its array of integrated sensors, which include:
- A motion detector with a range of 5 meters (16 feet)
- Entry sensors suitable for both doors and windows
- An accelerometer, particularly useful for garage doors
- Sensors for temperature, humidity, and ambient light
- An alarm sound sensor that recognizes UL217 and UL2034 alarm patterns
- A water sensor (available only in the 3-pack version, which is not yet on the market)
For installation, the UniFi Smart Sensor offers several options. It comes with a flat wall mount, pre-attached to the sensor's rear, and a corner mount for 45-degree placement or corner positioning.
The mounts can be installed using either the provided adhesive tape or screws. The package also includes a magnet for the detection of opening and closing of doors or windows, and a tab for detaching the sensor from the wall mount.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Ø24 x 83.5 mm (Ø0.94 x 3.29 inches)
- Processor: MCU Processor operating at 40 MHz
- Networking Interface: Bluetooth 5.0, BLE
- Antenna: 2.4GHz with a 0.5 dBm antenna gain
- Power Method: Lithium Battery CR123
Requirements for UniFi Smart Sensor
The sensors do not connect to your Wi-Fi network, as this would be too energy-intensive. Instead, they use the BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) protocol. To function, they need to be within 15 meters (49 feet) of one of these UniFi 6 access points:
- UniFi 6 Long Range
- UniFi 6 Lite
- UniFi 6 Pro
Note that without a U6 access point, the sensor will not operate.
Installation Process
The installation process allows you to choose the sensor's features. The initial step involves placing the sensor within range of the U6 access point and integrating it with UniFi Protect. The sensor indicates readiness for integration by blinking white once the protective plastic is removed from the battery.
You can assign a name to the sensor and pair it with a camera. The sensor's data will then be displayed alongside the camera's view.
The next step involves selecting the sensor's location and enabling various features. Remember, the more features activated, the quicker the battery drains. For instance, activating only motion detection in a hallway will extend battery life, but adding temperature, humidity, and light sensors will reduce it.
You can also set specific zones or sensitivity levels for each event, with options to modify these settings later in the device's settings.
With configuration complete, you can monitor the readings in the UniFi Protect console. The measurements will appear green within the safe zone and turn red if they fall outside this range.
Configuring Alerts Setting up alerts is a crucial step. In UniFi Protect's settings, you can customize alert parameters for the sensors under Settings > Notifications > Activity. It's advisable to enable Low Battery notifications via email to ensure you're promptly informed when the battery is nearing depletion.
For home security purposes, you might prefer receiving notifications only when no one is at home. This can be set under the “When to send” option for the sensor, choosing Location Based and activating it when everyone is away. Additionally, you can set up push notifications for motion detection or door opening/closing events.
Conclusion
The UniFi Smart Sensor is relatively new in the market. Currently, the 3-pack with the leak detection sensor is not available for purchase, and not all camera models support the pairing feature.
Nevertheless, the UniFi Smart Sensor is a truly versatile tool, ideal for monitoring all entry points in your home and a valuable complement to UniFi Protect cameras.
For any inquiries or feedback, feel free to comment or send a email :)