Driveway Alert®Systems Troubleshooting Guide:
When your system is operating properly, there are three main functions being performed. First, the passive Infra Red
Sensor detects a vehicle or other warm object passing through the detection zone. Second, once an object is
detected, the Transmitter sends a signal. Third, the Receiver gets the transmitted signal from the Sensor Transmitter
and activates the Alert Tone and the Event Diode at the Receiver. If your system is not working as expected, review
this troubleshooting guide and keep in mind there are three different functions to consider. As you troubleshoot and
alleviate various adverse conditions, it is best to have someone help you perform the Walk Tests.
There are also two extremely important environmental issues that must be considered. First, as with all passive infra
red devices, certain conditions and acts of nature may cause false alarms or reduced sensitivity. Reflective objects
directing sunlight at the Sensor Transmitter Lens can cause false alarms. Certain weather conditions such as: heavy
fog, rain or snow can diffuse an object’s infra red energy enough so that the object can not be detected.
Second, and most important, many household appliances induce noise into the household electrical lines and outlets.
In order to maximize the range between the Receiver and Transmitter, our Receives are highly tuned and very
sensitive. When possible, isolate the Receiver on its own circuit or a circuit that has minimal use by other devices.
LED Lighting and LED TVs induce a tremendous amount of electrical noise into household circuits. Computers and
motors create a high level of electrical noise. Other wireless electronic devices, such as; garage door openers and
Wi-Fi networks, can transmit wireless signals that interfere or create false alarms in your Driveway Alert®System.
PROBLEM: My Receiver will not activate when objects pass through the sensor detection zone.
CORRECT THE ADVERSE CONDITIONS THAT EXIST:
The Battery in the Sensor Transmitter is not a new high quality alkaline battery.
The Battery in the Sensor Transmitter is depleted below the voltage required to sense and transmit.
The Sensor Transmitter’s detection zone is not clear of obstructions.
The Sensor Transmitter is not mounted one to two feet from driveway edge.
The Sensor Transmitter is not mounted so the Lens is 2 to 2 ½feet about the driveway surface.
The Sensor Transmitter is not pointed straight across the driveway.
The Sensor Transmitter Lens is not perpendicular to the object’s travel.
The Sensor Transmitter is either pointed upward or downward and not level.
The Sensor Transmitter is out of range and the signal is too weak to be received.
The Sensor Transmitter is very close to the Receiver.
The transmitted signal does not have a clear path to the Receiver for maximum unobstructed reception.
The transmitted signal is not propagating through the dense trees for maximum unobstructed reception.
The transmitted signal is not propagating through dense earth, rock or cement.
The Receiver is behind or shrouded by thick or dense walls.
The Receiver is plugged into an outlet with other devices or appliances.
The Receiver is plugged into the same circuit with other devices or appliances.
The Receiver is obstructed and not placed near a window for maximum unobstructed reception.
The Receiver Battery is depleted below its operating voltage (Portable Receivers Only).
There is interference in the area and the system coding needs to be changed.
PROBLEM: My Receiver activates when nothing passes through the sensor detection zone.
CORRECT THE ADVERSE CONDITIONS THAT EXIST:
The Battery in the Sensor Transmitter is not a new high quality alkaline battery.
The Battery in the Sensor Transmitter is depleted below the voltage required to sense activity.
The Sensor Transmitter is not securely mounted and is shaking or moving slightly.
The sun is shining directly into the Sensor Transmitter Lens.
The sun is reflecting off large reflective objects into the Sensor Transmitter Lens.
Objects free to move in the wind (bushes, small trees, etc.) are in the sensor’s detection zone.
PROBLEM: My Receiver is constantly activated.
CORRECT THE ADVERSE CONDITIONS THAT EXIST:
The Battery in the Sensor Transmitter is not a new high quality alkaline battery.
The Battery in the Sensor Transmitter is depleted below the voltage required to sense activity.
There is interference in the area and the system coding needs to be changed.
Still have problems or questions? Call Technical Support (603) 355-6677
