Design

The design of a security system is one of the most critical steps in achieving the goals and objectives laid out in the customer's Security Criteria. The design process requires that the FocusMicro Project Manager not only be able to have a broad overview of the system and the facilities that it will be protecting, but also requires planning skills that will account for the smallest of details.

FocusMicro Project Managers are experienced security professionals with first hand knowledge gained from planning and executing hundreds security projects. They have the tools necessary to design all facets of a company's security system, from cabling and wiring to cameras and lens selections.

The first step in the design process is to review the customer's Security Criteria or to develop one if necessary. It is important that the Project Manager have a clear understanding of the security needs of the customer, what constraints need to be placed on the project, how the finished security system will fit with the company's culture and the new capabilities of the customer's security organization once the system has been brought into service. All of these issues must be taken into consideration in planning the system to insure that the system is comprehensive enough to satisfy the needs of the organization but is not over-designed and exceeds what the customer needs and can utilize.

Most new security systems are an integration of multiple security systems, including CCTV, Intrusion Detection, Access Control, Fire Protection and others. While the benefits of integrating multiple security systems are substantial, care must be exercised not to over-sell the concept or to over state its capabilities.

All of the major industry standard CAD software programs are in residence at FocusMicro, enabling engineers and project managers to perform advanced levels of design. Drawings are stripped, as appropriate, of layers and information that are unnecessary to the security system design. Drawings are then amended with the layout of all of the elements of the security system.

Using CAD, care is taken to insure that cable runs are efficient and avoid sources of electrical interference. Motion sensors are specified and their field of coverage is mapped. Cameras are selected and the optimal focal length of lenses are chosen. Critical doors and entrances are identified and access control devices are planned. Smoke detectors, heat detectors and annunciators are specified and placed to ensure that the best possible protection for the building and its occupants is achieved.

The design of a security system also takes into consideration all local building and construction codes to insure that the installation will pass regulatory inspections.

More than anything else, the design process is a joint effort between FocusMicro and the customer. The end result is a well laid out, thoroughly planned security system that meets the needs of the customer and satisfies the requirements of the Security Criteria.