So far the motion detection on the Skybell has been completely inadequate. You have to be within arms reach of the doorbell before it senses movement, and by the time it starts recording all I get are people’s butts as they’re walking away. I was really expecting this to capture all activity occurring on the porch, particularly as people approach and you can see their faces.
In the ADC settings for recording schedules I see where recording can be triggered by other sensors. Is there a way I can add a motion detector on the porch to trigger the Skybell, but not have it trigger the alarm when armed to away mode?
Yes, but note that the Doorbell Cam won’t have a pre-trigger recording buffer, unlike standard ADC cams. As in the video clip will not contain any footage leading up to the trigger.
However, you could use an outdoor motion detector like the Honeywell 5800PIROD, programmed as a (23) No Response Type sensor as opposed to (04) Interior Follower.
(23) No Response Type still sends activity to Alarm.com and is eligible for activity monitoring, but is never “armed” and will never generate a panel alarm, regardless of state.
Thanks Jason. That should do the trick, but that’s one pricey motion sensor. For the cost I think I’ll be better off just adding an additional camera to the porch, and leave the Skybell strictly for doorbell/intercom purposes.
but that’s one pricey motion sensor
Yeah the ones rated for outdoor use are higher cost generally. Using a camera can provide a better angle as well I suppose, so that may be a better solution anyway depending on the layout.