A compelling case can be made for how important security systems are in protecting facilities, assets, employees and customers, and few would disagree that investing in a comprehensive plan to secure a business is a wise decision.

When problems with power, such as surges, spikes, blackouts, or brownouts occur, it is imperative that security systems go on unfazed. The prospect of protecting all of the systems involved can be daunting, but a granular approach can simplify the process greatly.

There are 7 critical areas that must be operational in the event of a power problem. These include:

 

1. Cameras & Recording devices – back up camera power supplies and digital video recorders (DVRs) with at least 1 hour of battery backup time from a UPS.
2. Access Control – these systems typically have a low power requirement, meaning they can be inexpensively backed up with a small UPS that provides a significant amount of runtime.
3. Fire Alarm Systems – most state regulations require an on-line UPS solution providing 24 hours of capacity; see your state’s laws for exact requirements.
4. Emergency Communications – these, too, can be governed by state regulations, often requiring up to 24 hours of backup protection from a UPS.
5. Telephone Systems – communications in an emergency are critical, and backup of the telephone system is key to a complete security plan. This includes UPSs for both the main system, and workstations.
6. Intrusion Detection – the first line of defense against unauthorized access, these systems often include a small on-board battery; this can be effectively backed up with a small UPS for added protection.
7. Loss Prevention – shoplifting and ‘shrinkage’ account for more than $10 billion in losses annually; backing up anti-theft systems assures theft won’t occur during a power anomaly.

Another critical addition to a power plan would be one of Minuteman’s remote power managers.  Everyone knows that electronic systems can lock up, and when that happens, security systems become vulnerable.  Rebooting a locked up system is as simple as going to an IP address from any smart device and re-starting the system.  The RPM’s from Minuteman are also able to quickly notify a security or IT manager that a device is locked up, and immediate action can then be taken to get things up and running by using a cell phone, PC, laptop or tablet.  There is no need to roll a truck or send someone across campus just to re-start a system – it can be conveniently and quickly resolved with an RPM.

A complete security plan for any organization, whether it’s a business, school, or government entity, must focus on each area of the system’s requirements for power protection. With each piece working in harmony, the next power problem will not turn into a disaster.

For more detailed information on power protection for security, visit www.minutemanups.com/security.

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