An intercom system is an electronic communication system that helps transmit and receive audio and/or video transmissions. It is commonly found in hospitals, large offices, schools, shops, and even in homes. With just a push of a button, an intercom system allows people in different rooms to communicate with each other instantly. In this article, learn the intercom systems buying guide to help you choose the best intercom system that will suit your needs.
With the emergence of cellular communication, digital telephone systems, and other more advanced communication devices, the use of intercoms may seem obsolete. However, there are still many good reasons why having an intercom system is a good investment. Aside from assisting you in communicating with other people in your home or facility, they can also provide advanced security, help you monitor your employees’ or children’s activities, and save considerable costs. Newer versions of intercom systems even offer more functions that make communication more convenient, affordable, and time-saving. So, without further ado, let’s get into the intercom systems buying guide.
SECURE YOUR HOME WITH THE BEST INTERCOM SYSTEMS TODAY
1. Learn the basics.
There are so many kinds of intercom systems, with various added features, from different brands in the market today. Identifying the basic parts of your intercom system can help you understand how it works and what features you will want on top of them. Here are its basic components:
- Base station
Also known as the master station, it is the point from which the entire system is controlled. All other parts are connected to the main base station and it has the ability to broadcast messages to all stations at once. Additionally, it has the capability to initiate intercom communication with any station connected to the system and also has the capability to mute any station.
- Substations
They are commonly known as intercom speakers or slave units. Substations broadcast one-way communication from the base station and not capable of initiating correspondence. They are commonly used in schools, airports, train stations, and malls. At home, they can serve as a baby monitor where the base station will be the baby’s room. The parent will hear the baby, but the baby will not be disturbed by any outside noises.
- Stations
Like the intercom substations, they are parts of an intercom system that connect to the base station. But, aside from serving as a speaker, an intercom station possesses a talk button and microphone and may initiate communication with the base station.
- Power supply
Like all electronic systems, intercom system has a power supply that feeds power to all the units to make them function.
2. Determine the range needed in your property.
Different intercom systems have varying ranges, with some even reaching as far as 1,000 feet. Choose the range of your intercom system based on the size of your home or facility and the purpose you want it to perform. Intercoms are generally used to connect different rooms, connect all rooms to a central office, act as a public address system or function as a door buzzer. Determine where your base station will be and check the range you will need from the base to where you want to place stations or substations.
3. Choose whether you want a hard-wired or wireless system.
Traditional intercom systems require wires to connect the entire system installed on your property. Although they offer minimum interference, hard-wired intercoms can be difficult and expensive to install. On the other hand, wireless intercom system units may be more costly than the traditional ones, but they are easy to install. You can just plug them into a power source and start using them right away! However, you will also need to consider their compatibility with your property’s structure. Obstacles, such as metal walls, could interfere with the connection and prevent your intercom system from producing a good sound quality.
4. Set your budget.
Based on your needs, you can now explore the products and features available in the market. Find the most reputable brands to get a quality product and compare prices and features. Watch out for features you might not need, just stick with the basics and a few related features. Also, remember that your intercom system will be fixed to your property for a very long time, so spending good money on it can be an investment to a lifetime of easy communication and better security.
5. Consult a professional locksmith.
Modern professional locksmiths go beyond fixing your door locks. You can consult them about adding security or communication devices, such as intercom systems, to your building. Call them for guidance in choosing the best products that will fit your property’s requirements. Simply searching “locksmith near me” on Google will help narrow down all the available locksmith services in your area. They can help determine the most strategic areas for installation, and mount your intercom system. They will even provide after-care and maintenance services in case of malfunctions.
For the best intercom systems installation support, call us at Apex Locksmiths. We also provide 24 hour emergency lockout services for car or house lockout situations. And offer a variety of other services for your other residential and commercial locksmith needs.