MAP v2 Sensor FAQ’s
Q. How is Art Guard’s MAP v2 sensor different from other technologies?
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 video and motion/vibration sensors, either on RFID or standard security systems. With the addition of an accelerometer option the v2 has added even great flexibility and coverage to an already unique sensor. MAP’s patented use of a small rare earth magnet to indicate movement of an asset makes protecting almost any stationary object, regardless of size, possible. When an ambient environment contains excessive magnetism, the v2 can simply be switched to accelerometer mode. MAP is agnostic in its integration into systems, offering either of two MAP DIY systems or interface with a growing list of panels and access control systems. No other solution offers the flexibility, coverage and interface possibilities.
Q. How safe is MAP for delicate objects?
A. Seated objects in particular often demand extreme care because of the delicacy of their surface, whether a parchment, porcelain, tapestry or other. The choice of benign adhesives (see next) or opposing magnets held in place by their attraction, possibly with a small piece of velum to avoid contact, or placing a magnet in foam and resting it inside a vessel may be called for.
Q. What adhesives do we recommend?
A. MAP sensor comes with a strip of 3M tape that can be used whole or cut into smaller pieces. We also recommend 3M Command tape or conservation tape, both available in MAP Sensor Accessories. To affix the magnet, painter’s or conservation tape is usually used. A small piece of the 3M tape can also be used. Museum Wax can be used in certain situations but its effectiveness is compromised by certain surfaces and temperatures. In the most extreme cases where a tiny magnet can be used on a very delicate surface, wheat or rice paste can be used. In any case make sure surfaces are clean before affixing either sensor or magnet.
Q. What is the lifespan of a MAP sensor?
A. Two coin-cell batteries last 4-5 yrs. with normal usage and can be replaced. Batteries are available in MAP Sensor Accessories.
Q. How do I know which magnet to use?
A. This will be dictated by the situation and each is different. Magnets come in all shapes and sizes, again viewable and available on in MAP Sensor Accessories. Art Guard ships a small disk- shaped magnet with each sensor for hanging works unless otherwise instructed. We are available to help you determine the best fit and placement.
Q. How far can MAP transmit?
A. Transmission distance often depends on a number of factors. The average range to a panel/receiver is 400 ft. In open air it can be far greater but may be shorter depending on configurations of a space and construction materials. Repeaters can easily be added to boost signals making coverage in a large facility, even between floors, possible.
Q. Why are there no prices on your site?
A. Since every situation is different we prefer to discuss the particulars of what is being protected and those of the space. We would also like to know what type of response you prefer from a system before recommending an installer or one of our DIY systems.
Q. What if I want to move or replace a piece or send it out on loan?
A. The sensor and magnet can simply be removed and placed on another piece. If the sensor has the name of the object associated with it that can be changed. If the sensor is no longer attached to a piece, it can be by-passed or deleted from the system and re-enrolled when needed.
Q. Are there any downsides?
A. There may be situations where the atmospheric magnetism is problematic or magnetism generated by something mechanical in the space and the use of the accelerometer is prohibited by limited placement options on the back of a painting. It may not be possible to use MAP in those cases.
