Mitigating the threat of external sources of theft requires a comprehensive access control and intrusion detection technology based systems. FocusMicro supplies and installs the most technologically advanced systems in institutions throughout the United States. As existing systems are enhanced or expanded, or as new systems are installed, insuring that all technology based systems are integrated to enable data sharing is essential. An experienced, self-contained consulting firm like FocusMicro will be able to provide the necessary guidance and recommendations for equipment selection to guarantee compatibility and data sharing capabilities. FocusMicro’s self-contained capabilities extend to the installation and maintenance of security solutions as well. FocusMicro can provide complete turnkey security solutions without utilizing subcontractors or other outside resources.

Access control systems should use either digital keypads, personalized identity cards or biometric entrance controls. Intrusion detection systems should be fully programmable, with both automatic and manual based self testing capabilities. The museum proper and its storage areas must be armed with internal magnetic switches for doors and windows that open. There should be glass break sensors installed around all windows as well as near steel and aluminum doors. Infrared motion sensors should provide redundant door and window coverage, and should also cover hallways, entrances, galleries and secure areas.

To reduce the likelihood of internal theft and Administrative Losses, an all-inclusive surveillance system based on digital video technology should be implemented. Replacing any VCR tape based system with a digital video system should be considered a priority. This is a cost effective enhancement that utilizes existing cameras, yet results in a significant increase in image quality and improved video coverage with the elimination of multiplexers and other time-lapse devices. FocusMicro is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of Digital Video Servers. FocusMicro Security Consultants can assess a museum’s current surveillance capabilities and make expert recommendations to improve the system. Once installed and integrated with the other security systems, Digital Video technology can be demonstrated to employees, becoming a very effective deterrent to criminal behavior.

A thorough security program will identify luminary work within the museum and establish a secure perimeter for each one. These security perimeters should be monitored by cameras backed by a Digital Video Server with area motion sensing alarms such as those offered by FocusMicro, Inc.. The alarms should be fully configurable for covert or overt announcements depending upon the date, day and time of the alarm.

Every institution should have a security officer presence for the museum and storage areas 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Each institution should perform a thorough and highly detailed background check on all security officers. Security organizations should initiate a program of ongoing training for all security personnel, using a combination of internal (if available) and external training organizations. They should also ensure that the security officers conduct regular yet unpredictable patrols of the facilities.

To prevent accidental or deliberate abuse and to minimize losses, museums should implement a thorough and audited key control program. Because keys are such a routine part of our everyday lives, even trained security personnel can become lax in their handling.