Every business and home is unique and has different needs. When shopping for an intercom system, it’s important to make sure it will be able to fulfill all your specific needs. Think about things like what type of intercom you need or whether you need a wired or wireless system. Once you’ve decided on those aspects, it’s time to look at features.
Not all intercoms are created equal. The system that works best for the business across the street might not be the one that works for your home. When making your decision, think about what features you need in your intercom system.
Internet Connectivity
Many modern intercom systems offer internet connectivity. Not only can your intercoms to communicate via the Wi-Fi in your home of office, it also offers an easy way to add video and remote access to your system from anywhere in the world.
Access to your home or business’s Wi-Fi network can also allow your intercom to work with your existing virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Voice Assistant. Check individual systems for compatibility.
Remote Access
One of the most helpful features that modern intercom systems offer is remote access. Most of the systems that offer remote access use an internet connection to establish a link with your mobile devices via an app. No matter where you are in the world, if you have data service or Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to access and use your intercom systems right from your phone or tablet.
One of the most popular intercom systems that offer remote access is the Aiphone JO. It has all the benefits of a wired system with the freedom and flexibility of a wireless system.
Video Calling
Video intercoms have been taking over the market in recent years and are likely going to continue gaining momentum well into the future. They help increase the security of establishments by allowing business and home owners to see exactly who’s at the front door or gate without having to rely on audio alone.
Scalability
Installing an intercom system can be expensive. Many business and home owners choose to start small with just two or three intercom stations to cut costs and test the effectiveness of the system. What if it works well and they want to expand?
It’s not always easy to install additional stations without intense rewiring or reconfiguring. Especially for growing businesses, make sure you can add more stations to your intercom system as needed without much difficulty.
Group Calling
If you manage a large business – or if your kids are always scattered throughout your house – and you frequently need to get everyone’s attention, group calling might be an important feature to look for in an intercom system.
With group calling, just press a button and you’re instantly talking to every station simultaneously. It’s great for general announcements, emergency protocols and calling the family for dinner.
Extended Range
If you’ve opted for the convenience of a wireless intercom system, it’s important to think about range. Your intercoms will only work if they’re close enough to the main hub or Wi-Fi router to receive a signal.
Most wireless systems can reach up to 300 metres when the signal is unobstructed. If you’re interested in using a wireless intercom at the front gate of your business, you might want to look into a system that features an extended range. Systems with an extended range can send a signal over 1,500 metres! If you’re just looking for an intercom to install in your home, that range might be unnecessary. It all depends on your specific needs.
Noise Cancellation
For people who work in loud environments like manufacturing facilities, noise cancellation is a must-have feature. What good is an intercom if you can’t communicate over the pounding of machines?
There are several intercom systems that offer noise cancelling features that can help to alleviate the headaches brought on by yelling over background noises. They do tend to be more expensive, but in a noisy environment, they’re invaluable.
Four Walls Security Experts
There are hundreds of different types intercoms to choose from, and they all have their own unique features. If you’re interested in installing an intercom system in your home or place of business, contact the experts at Four Walls Security. We have years of experience serving the Brisbane area and can walk you through every step of the decision-making process to ensure you get the perfect system that fits all your needs.
