Art Guard FAQs
MAP Product Specifics FAQs
MAP Installation
Q. How is Art Guard MAP different from other art security systems?
A. MAP offers the combination of a unique technology with broader applications, safety for the asset and better economics than other object-specific security solutions, including CCTV and motion or vibration sensors, either on RFID or standard security systems. MAP is the only object-specific security system that is capable of protecting very small objects, since what is placed on the asset is a tiny magnet as opposed to the sensor. This offers enormous flexibility in application to almost any stationary object. MAP is safer for the object since batteries don’t come in contact with and can’t endanger the fabric of the asset. The initial expenditure and life cycle costs are significantly lower than, in particular, RFID systems. Further, a MAP sensor can be used to protect multiple small-seated objects when grouped together on a surface.
Q. What types of objects does MAP protect?
A. The comprehensive nature of MAP makes it ideal for protecting most stationary art and objects, both hanging and seated. Besides works of art, other valuable assets include antiques, wine, jewelry, tapestry, guns, collectibles, specie, memorabilia and equipment.
Q. How far can MAP transmit?
A. Generally the working distance in a building is 400 ft. and can be increased with the aid of inexpensive repeaters. However, distances will depend largely on the construction and configuration of a building.
Q. Does one magnet size fit all applications?
A. Rare earth magnets come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from a tiny 2 mm disk to a large cube, which allows for discreet placement on anything from a piece of jewelry to an outdoor sculpture and varying distances between magnet and sensor. For instance, magnets can be sewn to a fabric or tapestry with a single thread. Or large magnets can be placed as much as 2 ft. from the sensor.
Q. How do I know which magnet to use?
A. We thoroughly review your entire installation with you and supply multiple magnets that are most appropriate for each particular asset.
Q. How are magnets and sensors attached?
A. There are a number of adhesives that can be employed for safe attachment of the magnet to the protected object, as well as the sensor to a supporting surface. Normally securing the magnet with museum wax and the sensor with double-sided pH neutral tape is sufficient. In cases where there is concern about adhering the magnet to a delicate surface, fresh wheat or rice paste can be employed. Art Guard’s staff is well versed in options and sensitive to delicate applications.
Q. Do the magnets or sensors affect the art or objects in any way?
A. MAP is a safe and effective security solution with no risk of damage to objects from the magnet, sensor or Art Guard-approved adhesives. Neodymium magnets are nickel-coated. There is no chemical reaction between the surface of a protected object and the magnet. Conservation adhesive, discussed above, further separates the magnet from the fabric of the object. Another major distinction of MAP is that the battery-powered sensor does not touch the protected object, eliminating concerns about battery leakage. Conventional motion/vibration sensors containing batteries are attached directly to the protected object. Art Guard is committed to the protection and preservation of fine objects. The entire MAP system has undergone extensive testing and review by qualified experts to insure that the integrity of objects is maintained.
Q. Can moving another magnet into range fool the MAP sensor?
A. No, once the sensor recognizes a particular magnet a logarithmic relationship is established with that magnet. Moving another magnet into the sensor’s capture field will trigger an alert.
Q. Do the magnets lose their power of attraction?
A. The loss of magnetism over many years is almost negligible and not enough to change the relationship with the sensor.
Q. How long do the sensors last?
A. MAP sensors can be used indefinitely. They operate with two replaceable coin cell batteries with 4-5 years of life and a low battery alert. Continuous movement during set up or after, for cleaning or re-installation, should be avoided since this causes transmission and can accelerate a drain on the batteries.
Q. What size and type of facility is Art Guard MAP designed for use in?
A. MAP is designed to meet the security needs of any facility displaying art or valuable objects, from private collections, i.e. residences, to institutional settings, e.g. museums, galleries, corporations, religious institutions, restaurants, hotels, hospitals and government facilities, in short, any facilities displaying art or objects.
Q. Can MAP protect outdoor sculpture?
A. As long as the MAP sensor can be installed out of sight and the magnet can be placed within an operating distance of the sensor, MAP can be used to protect objects out of doors. The MAP sensor can be placed in a waterproof plastic bag if exposed to the weather. The transmission distance of the MAP sensor to an indoor panel is 400 ft. without the aid of a repeater.
Q. How can pieces be moved for cleaning or other reasons?
A. The entire system can be disarmed and re-armed or individual sensors can be temporarily bypassed and re-activated by entering a user code. The security installer should include these in his operation instructions.
Q. Can I expect a reduction in premiums from my insurance company as a result of installing MAP?
A. Art Guard is working with the major providers of policies for art and other valuable assets toward reduced premiums. Many are already advising their clients on use of MAP to protect their assets.
Q. Why can’t I purchase MAP online.
A. Art Guard wants to ensure that every consideration is given to choosing the correct system and magnets for any given application. Therefore we encourage a conversation to answer questions and cover certain details before shipping.
Q. What is the capacity of the MAP system?
A. There is no limit on the number of sensors that can be employed. The quantity will determine the specific panel or whether panels are installed in series.
Q. Can I add MAP sensors at a later date?
A. Any number of additional sensors can be installed at any time and may only require additional panel capacity.
Q. Will MAP integrate with my current security system?
A. Most art security consultants recommend that an art security system be dedicated and independent from the main/intrusion security system, since it can be on 24/7 without interruption. But MAP can be integrated into a number of popular systems and partitioned to operate separately from the door/window sensors. MAP is designed to be compatible with DSC/Tyco equipment. A universal translator from Resolution Engineering can be used to integrate MAP into Honeywell, Ademco, GE, Qolsys (433), 2GIG and Elk control panels. It can also be integrated from a DSC panel into C-Cure 9000, Kantech and AMAG access control systems.
Q. Who supplies the system components?
A. Unless you are using the MAP Wi-Fi system Art Guard sells only the sensors and magnets and will supply them directly to the client or to the installer. The installer can determine the configuration of the system, supply the rest of the equipment and set-up the monitoring services.
Q. Does Art Guard install the MAP system?
A. Art Guard does not do installations. Installation into a conventional control panel or security system should be performed by a qualified security system installer, especially if a monitoring service or cell phone alert is required.
Q. Can Art Guard recommend a qualified security installer?
A. In the event that your current security company is not familiar with DSC equipment we will work with them to support a DSC installation or help them translate to other systems and work through a MAP protocol. In the event you do not have an installer Art Guard will help you find one in your area.
Q. Who warrants the MAP system?
A. Art Guard guarantees the MAP sensors based on installation by a qualified security installer and continued standard testing procedures. MAP sensors should be tested on a monthly basis. Instructions for testing, as well as other critical operations of the system can be obtained from your installer.
Q. Can the security installer apply the sensors and magnets.
A. When valuable art and assets are being secured the services of a certified art handler should always be used. Your insurance provider may insist on this but it is always recommended. The art handler can work with the security installer to insure proper application of the sensors and magnets, as well as effective operation by testing the system.
Q. What kind of alarm/response can I have?
A. Responses from the panel in the case of an event are broadly customizable and can include a call to monitoring service which can alert a response service, such as a guard, front desk, the police or off-site security company, an on-site audible alarm, turning on lights and/or camera, a text to multiple smart phones or other personal communication devices and an email alert.
Q. How do I know if MAP will work in my facility?
A. MAP is very flexible, with the ability to communicate with multiple security systems to best suit the client’s needs and facility configuration. System and transmission distance requirements can be determined by the installer by testing and with the support of Art Guard. In the rare case where significant amounts of ferrous metal are present throughout the facility and its structure, there is a chance that MAP’s wireless signal can be compromised. Otherwise, with accommodation for environmental factors, MAP has shown consistently dependable performance.
Q. Can Art Guard recommend a qualified art handler?
A. Art Guard works with a list of art handlers/installers nationwide. Art storage companies, art movers, galleries and museums are often sources for obtaining qualified people to handle and install art in private locations.
Q. Who do I call in case of a problem?
A. Art Guard has provided careful step-by-step instructions for setting up, enrolling and installing the sensors and magnets, as well as for testing, removing, bypassing and re-installing the sensors. There is also an extensive trouble shooting guide and accompanying video. If proper steps are followed to ensure the correct operation of the sensors and a problem persists, Art Guard will help to determine if there is a problem with the sensors or the system and if a call to the security installer is required.
How often should the MAP system be tested?
A. Art Guard recommends once every two weeks.
Q. Does Art Guard provide any warranty protection for MAP?
A. Art Guard warrants its products against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. This warranty gives Art Guard the option to repair or replace and does not include shipping and handling costs.
