Defending Your Systems Against Power Problems

Sponsored content by MINUTEMAN / PARA SYSTEMS, INC.

A compelling case can be made for how important security systems are in protecting facilities, staff, faculty and students, and few would disagree that investing in a comprehensive plan to secure a campus is a wise decision.

When problems with power, such as surges, spikes, blackouts or brownouts occur, security systems must 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 seven critical areas that must be operational in the event of a power problem:

  1. Cameras and recording devices — At least one hour of battery backup time from a UPS.
  2. Access control — Low power requirement, can be inexpensively backed up with a small UPS.
  3. Fire alarm systems — Most states require an online UPS solution providing 24 hours of capacity.
  4. Emergency communications — Also subject to state regulations, often up to 24 hours of backup required.
  5. Telephone Systems — Communications are critical; backup of these systems includes UPSes for both the main system and workstations.
  6. Intrusion detection — Small on-board battery usually included, but a small UPS should be included for added protection
  7. Loss prevention — Assure theft will not occur during a power anomaly.

A complete security plan for any campus 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/collegeplanning.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

Featured

  • UTampa Breaks Ground on STEM Academic Facility

    The University of Tampa in Tampa, Fla., recently broke ground on one of its largest academic facilities ever, according to a news release. The Dickey Science Innovation Center will measure 153,000 square feet and has a scheduled completion date of fall 2028.

  • Rhode Island Boarding School Completes Student Dorm Renovations

    St. George’s School in Middletown, R.I., recently announced the completion of a $26-million renovation project on Arden-Diman-Eccles Dormitory, according to a news release. The school partnered with Voith & Mactavish Architects (VMA) on the new space, which places a new focus on collaborative community spaces open to both boarding students and day students.

  • Philadelphia Middle School Facility Earns LEED Gold Certification

    The Alternative Middle Years (AMY) at James Martin Middle School in Philadelphia, Penn., recently received a LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, according to a news release. The School District of Pennsylvania partnered with KSS Architects on the project.

  • FGCU Breaks Ground on New Health Sciences Building

    Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has launched construction on a major new academic facility that leaders say will reshape healthcare education in Southwest Florida for decades to come, according to university news.