New Security System Integrated in Dallas’ Perot Museum

DALLAS — A new construction project was recently completed at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, a nonprofit organization focused on inspiring both children and adults through nature and science. The focus of the project was to install a new security system throughout the building. The upgraded control system was completely integrated and designed around the unique structure of the six-story museum and its exhibit space. Schneider Electric, a global company specializing in energy management, oversaw the project.

The main feature characterizing the new control and security system is Schneider Electric’s use of the Andover Continuum solution — a Building Management System (BMS) that, according to the company, is built from scratch based on each building’s specific operational needs. Because the system was tailored specifically to the museum’s architecture, its operational system was able to conserve energy and maximize efficiency. This is especially useful in a space like the Perot Museum, which has 20-foot ceilings and a unique and complex layout for its exhibits.

A combination of new access and lighting control, video surveillance and HVAC helped reduce the quantity of materials required during the project and, for a unique building such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, reduced the overall operational cost.

Other notable features of the project include a combination of equipment from other companies that helped enhance the system’s efficiency as well. Pelco by Schneider Electric provided the IP cameras and closed circuit television. Schneider also worked with Stentofon for the IP intercom, Radionics for the intrusion detection system and Notifier for the fire alarm system.

Kenneth Cadenhead, director of facilities at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, was particularly impressed with the success of the project. “We are thrilled with the work Schneider Electric has done with the construction on our museum. When running a nonprofit organization, efficiency is extremely important to our sustainability,” he said in a recent statement. “The savings we’ll earn from this project will ensure we are able to invest properly in educational programs and exhibits, giving our patrons the best possible experience at the Perot Museum.”

Perot Museum’s new safety system isn’t just cost effective. The BMS can be operated from anywhere, making the surveillance and management of the system run more smoothly. The success of the project is a positive step forward for the museum as it continues its mission to provide engaging exhibits and programs for students, parents and educators in the Dallas area.

The museum has locations in Victory Park and Fair Park in Dallas. The Victory Park site, which opened in December 2012, was a $185 million project designed by Thom Mayne — a Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate — and his firm, Morphosis Architects.