6 Types Of Intercom Systems For Your Next Building Project
May 20, 2022 | Multi-Line Corporation
What are the types of intercom systems for your next building project?
- Hard-wired intercom
- Wireless intercom
- Audio intercom
- Video intercom
- Gate intercom
- Mobile-connected intercom
An intercom is a two-way communication device that is used for transmitting and receiving video and/or audio transmissions. It allows tenants and occupants of a building to permit access to visitors. Access is granted by remotely opening a door or a gate. There are different types of intercom systems that are suitable for every kind of building.
But first, you might be wondering if you really need an intercom system for your next building project. There are several benefits to having one. First, it can provide enhanced building security for the tenants and occupants. This will improve the desirability of the building to prospective tenants as well.
Second, it adds convenience as well, because the residents of a building can easily grant access to guests they trust. Lastly, having an intercom system can increase the value of the property because there are many people and business owners that want to be in communities where it’s safer. If you want to learn more about the different types of intercom systems, keep on reading.
Hard-Wired Intercom
A hard-wired intercom system is the most common option for buildings. Every device needed for the system is connected to physical wires. These are usually installed during the construction of a building since the wires need to be placed inside the walls.
Wired systems are tried and tested, offering security and reliability because the devices are wired together — which means that the signal is not vulnerable to interference.
Wireless Intercom
In recent years, wireless intercom systems have become more popular because they’re low cost and easy to use. The devices can be easily installed in a short time because there’s less need for wires, so they’re ready for use sooner.
A wireless intercom system uses radio frequencies to transmit signals. Modern systems will use the internet too. The key thing to remember is to test the signals where you’re installing the intercom system.
Audio Intercom
An audio intercom is similar to a doorbell. But the intercom allows guests to speak with tenants and occupants of a building. With an additional feature of door release, the tenant can permit access to the building without having to physically open a door.
Video Intercom
A video intercom system is a good option for buildings where it’s important to see a visitor before letting them inside. This type of intercom is usually hard-wired because it’s easier to send and receive videos this way.
The system includes a camera to capture the video and a screen to display it to the viewer. Some intercoms have a built-in camera, while others are integrated with an external camera. By having video footage, it’s easier to verify the identity of a visitor and how many guests there are.
Gate Intercom
For some buildings, the main entrance that a visitor will encounter is a gate. That’s why there are gate intercom systems that can be used to restrict and grant access to cars and also pedestrians. You will often find this type of intercom in parking garage entrances, gated communities, and the like. Most systems have a camera, so it’s easier to see who’s the visitor.
A gate intercom can be more difficult to install, depending on the location of the gate from the building. In this case, the wiring needs to run a long distance to power the system.
Mobile-Connected Intercom
A mobile-connected intercom offers the additional capability to connect the system to a smartphone. This way, tenants of a building can always communicate with visitors and guests whenever they are.
For a mobile-connected intercom, it’s possible to unlock the door while onsite using a hard-wired master station or through a mobile app remotely. In some systems, the smartphone is used as a substation. This is usually a good choice for apartment buildings, since purchasing and installing substations at each apartment can be costly.
Key Takeaway
Intercom systems are beneficial for buildings where security and convenience are both important. Tenants and occupants can easily grant permission to guests that are trusted, which helps with restricting outsiders and reducing security risks. This can help increase the property value and desirability of a building to future tenants.
If you would like to learn more about the different types of intercom systems, you can contact us here at Multi-Line! When it comes to video audio entry systems, we partner with Btcino and Leelen to help our clients enhance security in their building projects. Both of these brands are a great source of high-quality, state-of-the-art, and easy-to-use intercom systems for residential and commercial buildings.
