Think "inside the box" is the theme Morse Watchmans has hit upon to define its commitment to ensuring its customers are buying the most advanced and reliable key management and access-control systems on the market.

The goal, says Fernando Pires, vice president of sales and marketing for the Oxford, Conn.-based security specialists, is “keeping our brand at the forefront of security technology” by building on a “heritage of reliable, durable and innovative products.”

Like KeyWatcher, a stalwart of the Morse Watchmans portfolio, an integrated access-control solution whose features include a built-in button pad, a Smart Key locking mechanism with a built-in memory chip for each individual key — data from the chip is stored automatically when a key is inserted into a key slot — illuminated storage that simplifies the identification and location of the correct key, Random Key Return, which allows users to return keys back to any open location within a cabinet, and an integrated communications system that sends priority e-mails to security managers to alert them when Smart Keys are removed or returned. Keywatcher can be integrated into a variety of access-control methods like biometric fingerprint readers and magnetic or proximity card readers, and it accommodates up to 2,000 PIN codes.

Morse Watchmans recently upgraded its popular KeyPro Management Software with a feature called the KeyPro Scheduler, which automatically downloads data to a secure PC, allowing system managers to sort and analyze information critical to the control of access and security.

The PowerCheck Guard Tour System is an example of this kind of advanced thinking — “It has quickly become an invaluable management tool in a variety of environments,” Pires attests.

The computerized system is comprised of a hand-held data recorder, checkpoint stations and reporting software. The data recorder allows security personnel to input incident codes on site, using the built-in keypad and display. Paperwork is minimized with 99 pre-set incident codes which can be downloaded to the computer at the end of the guard tour. An Auto Pilot feature prompts guards to visit the next station and can be programmed for random tour sequences for added security. Its Tour-Pro Data Sorting Software converts information from the data recorder into customized reports and enables users to program the data recorder and manage files.

But products “are only part of the story,” says Pires.

“We are equally proud of our reputation for providing outstanding customer service. Our customers know and trust the brand name and what stands behind it.”