An alarm ready portable case is provided in which to secure a firearm or
other protectable. The case includes sensors, a lock and, in several
embodiments, structure to support the article to be protected. The case
is adaptable to become part of a pre-existing facility security system of
any of a plurality of manufacturers by being configured to receive any of
several connectivity elements that are compatible with at least one of
the security systems. For example, wireless transmitters that are
compatible with different alarm systems may be connected. Terminals may
also be directly wired into a hardwired zone of a security alarm panel.
Transmitter receiving structure may be provided in the case for holding
any such transmitter. Terminals are provided to connect to external
wiring. Slots may be provided for communication interface cards, such as
ethernet cards, wireless telecommunications cards, or other connectivity
hardware. Internal conductors are provided in the case to connect the
sensors to the transmitter, external wiring or other connectivity
devices. The sensors may be normally closed switches that are opened when
the lid or the lock of the case are opened, motion detectors that actuate
when the case is moved, or other detection devices that generate a signal
when the case is otherwise tampered with. The case provides an efficient
way of retrofitting an existing facility alarm or security system to
specifically protect a firearm or other protectable item.