Burglaries happen every year in thousands of homes and businesses in the United States. Would you like to know what type of crime your company or property will be targeted for? In that case, it might be a good idea to think about adding an intercom unit to the surveillance system.
The first thing we need to know is how the communication system functions. Intercoms are electronic devices capable of transmitting in both directions. It features systems for sending and getting communication data. As cellular phones, digital telephones, and other communication devices emerged, intercom use started decreasing. However, communication devices are still more useful than anything else in several applications. Are you wondering why you should choose an intercom? Let's find out.
Types of Intercom systems
Wireless intercoms
It is often impossible or quite a hassle to set up cables all over a property, so cordless intercoms are an ideal solution. As long as a cordless intercom is active, it makes use of undetectable electromagnetic waves referred to as a spectrum. These waves are the basis of all cordless communications. The amount of spectrum being used, or the band, determines whether the wireless intercom can broadcast audio or visual signals. The majority of wireless networks today operate on low-frequency bands (under 2.5 GHz), which are also used to broadcast audio and video signals from cordless intercoms.
Make sure you ask the device installer for details about how the setup works when thinking about purchasing a wireless communication unit. Test the internet or cell phone signal where you intend to install the device if the communication device is wireless or cellular. External factors like interference from electricity can disrupt the signal strength of WiFi. The cellular network requires constant, high-bandwidth connections, and high-speed plans are usually required for cellular connections. Ethernet cables are recommended for connecting the communication device to the internet directly.
Audio intercoms
Visitors to an apartment building can converse with residents using a telephone intercom system. The residents can provide entry to the building to guests using the communication system with a remote control mechanism. The audio intercom is no longer commonly used because video intercoms have succeeded them.
Think about setting up a video communication device when planning or remodeling a future home. Like audio communication devices, they offer more capabilities at the same cost level. One may also want to set up a video communication device when one plans on upgrading the audio communication device. Nevertheless, it is imperative that one installs the intercom at the appropriate position, as well as the required cabling.
Wired intercoms
What separates wired from cordless communication systems is their internet connection. All communication devices require some form of wiring - some just require more wiring than others. The setup of intercom units is economical since the setup relies on cabling where the units are mounted. It is important to have wiring for powering your intercom and connecting it to your mechanical or automated door lock.
In some cases, an intercom must be wired throughout the whole structure. Moreover, the transmitter in the facility's entrance will require wiring from every underground component. It is suggested that one plugs in the system directly to the internet with the latest ethernet cable. You will thus be able to ensure the security of your communication unit while also reducing the possibility of interference from other wireless devices.
Apartment intercoms
Those living inside apartments and guests can communicate with each other using apartment communication systems. Apartment intercom systems are exclusively available for high-rise apartment blocks.
Apartment intercom master stations are found at the doorway to the structure, so guests can locate and reach residents by searching a database. There may be an interface to the internet, a door lock, and power at the intercom master station. In apartments, occupants have a communication substation they can use to interact with guests and give them entry to their respective homes. Phone applications are a great option when setting up the apartment communication unit since the occupants may utilize their cell phones as substations. Furthermore, the hardware, wiring, and labor charges involved in setting up substations in individual residences are high.
If the budget allows, apartment communication systems can be arranged for the entire building or connected to every apartment. However, it is not easy to deliver all the tenants to the same table. Their needs vary. The tenant’s total building security system can include communication units or guarding at the entrance to the main building while leaving separate apartment floors and doors without video surveillance. Including more cameras may be fine to some and expensive to other tenants.
In general, as a tenant, you cannot have the ability to control the entire building. Your apartment intercom system will largely depend on the goodwill of the owner. This is even more important if you need to install wired systems or other access control alternatives that require serious deconstruction and need to change the design of the dwelling. Many property owners don’t allow their tenants to do so. If you wish to safeguard your own home in such a way, you must obtain your landlord's signature or mention it in the contract.
The installation of an intercom system
Communication systems are complex and expensive to replace or install based on three factors: the type, the wiring, and the installation site. Installation costs will be higher and more complicated if you install video communication units in each apartment unit. Installing wiring and purchasing hardware can be costly. However, if you’re installing a wireless communication device that sends signals to a tenant’s smartphone, the installation will cost less.
Where you place the communication system matters too. The setup will be easier and less expensive if you're replacing an existing communication unit with already connected cabling and a switch. The setup will be more difficult and costly if you have to cut through a wall or break apart some bricks. It is often cheaper and more time-consuming to install the communication unit than the actual communication device. This is because additional components, labor, and wiring add up quickly. Compare quotes from several certified installers in your area to ensure you aren't paying too much. By comparing their quotes, you can choose which is best for you.
Determine whether to use video or audio-only
Additionally to selecting the type of communication that's right for you, you will want to consider whether you prefer being able to see the individuals with whom you're communicating or if you're content with only being able to hear them. People prefer communication units with video capabilities because they provide a sense of security and peace of mind. The price of systems with video capabilities can often be higher than ones with just audio.
Read Reviews
You should always read reviews about a product and the installation company before purchasing. A customer satisfaction survey helps you figure out how satisfied a seller is generally with their services. Taking action beforehand reduces your chances of encountering unpleasant surprises in the future.
Ask About Ease of Use
If you already have security equipment in place, your communication system should be easy to use and integrate with it. If you're considering different types of communication, make sure you ask about this, so you can be sure to purchase a product that has benefits you and your family will enjoy after it's installed.
Stay Within Your Budget
Last but not least, don't forget to consider the price. You can get a free quote from a reputable security and communication system installer before committing to anything. Make sure you stay away from sellers who charge you for quotes or do not clearly state prices. This will help you estimate how much you will spend and help you budget effectively.
Conclusion
It also gives you a combination of common life, security, and privacy for what you can be sure of, maybe your privacy invasion. Usually, you will have to rely on your personal housing safety system. Shared cameras or access control can be seen only as an additional option depending on how well you know the people in the building. In such situations, you will need something simple and understandable to you. Intercom systems for houses are easy to install with wireless security systems. For others, security vendors can provide instructions and arrange a security contract that fits well with your tenancy agreement.
