Integrating Communications

May 1, 1998 12:00 PM, AC&SSI Staff

The intercom: an essential element of a layered security system. The intercom is like the Swiss army knife of security - its functions are virtually unlimited. Intercoms add another dimension to access control, protection and safety.

Intercom systems can provide fast, hands-free, clear communication in critical safety and security situations. An intercom system can provide multifunctionality, integration capabilities, ADA compliance, fault indication and ease of use.

A case in point The Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., has long used intercom technology for its internal communications systems, and recently implemented intercom systems for security purposes. The clinic interfaced the Stentofon intercom system with CCTV and access control.

The intercom network monitors various entry points during the night. If people want to gain access, they contact the guard by intercom, who looks at them on a video monitor, talks to them via the intercom, and provides access if deemed appropriate. This type of interactive security provides the guard with more information on which to base a decision. He can permit or deny access or dispatch security based on what he sees - and hears.

The difference is digital As digital technology improves, so improve the possibilities for security and communications systems. Digital systems can enhance security systems through a wider frequency range, better sound control, clearer voice articulation and superb signal-to-noise ratios. Digital technology provides remote programming from a PC, simultaneous functions, and increased speech paths.

Payback time Administrators must consider cost-effectiveness when choosing a security system. Purchasing the most productive, proficient system ultimately saves money.

Probably the most overlooked and possibly most important capability of some intercom systems is the capability to operate like several separate systems. In other words, the communications system that is used in the laboratory can be used for security.

Intercom systems also decrease costs by facilitating central monitoring and reducing the need for guard staff.

When combined with CCTV or access cards, intercom systems can increase the productivity of the overall system. With the addition of two-way intercoms, a CCTV system becomes interactive.

Making the transition Selecting the right type of intercom system depends on the size of the facility and level of security and types of communication required. Some system options include: - Handset stations should be used in areas where privacy is a concern. If the system is being used specifically for security, it is not recommended that too many handset stations be installed. - Wall stations are ideal for high-traffic areas with little space. - The standard desk station is an economical and frequently used hands-free station. The unit can be positioned in the most convenient area for users. - Direct access buttons can "speed dial" frequently called rooms or areas. Direct access buttons can also be used for group calls and zone paging, so they are a proficient way to distribute information or dispatch assistance in an emergency.

- Control room master stations enable multi-area security from one central position. These systems can include multiple direct access buttons and displays, which allow the user to see a feature menu and directory, as well as information on who is calling.

Strength in numbers To maximize security, layer different security elements into one system. Intercoms can be layered with access systems, CCTV, strobe lights and more. They also layer in ADA-compliance features.

Finally, fault indicators are an important feature for reliable communication in emergency situations.

Intercoms on the job securing shopping malls

Security and facilities managers at shopping malls throughout the country who find it difficult to balance the perception and the reality of security are implementing new technologies - in parking structures, stairwells, elevators, bathrooms and other potentially high-risk areas. Emergency phones in key locations can deter criminal activity and convey concern for customer service and well-being.

Pearlridge Shopping Mall, Hawaii Pearlridge Shopping Mall in Oahu, Hawaii, has implemented a security program using Talk-A-Phone's ADA-compliant hands-free emergency phones. The system helps deter crime in the parking facility, elevators and stairwells. A combination of indoor, ADA-compliant elevator phones and outdoor, emergency/information call boxes are used, including a head-end system that consists of a super consolidator and a Windows-based Talk-A-Lert package. The super consolidator connects up to 96 emergency phones into one internal "mini-PBX" configuration. The computer system polls emergency phones throughout the facility six times per day to test the integrity of connections and to check the microprocessor of the emergency phones. The system also identifies and logs incoming emergency calls.

Perimeter Mall, Atlanta Perimeter Mall in Atlanta has also implemented a security system using more than 120 Talk-A-Phone emergency phones. The mall selected the ETP-400V ADA-compliant hands-free emergency phone, which includes a voice identification chip. Upon activation of the unit, the security supervisor is called. If the line is busy or does not answer, the call is automatically rolled over to the officer's cellular phone. When the officer answers the call at either location, the Talk-A-Phone unit plays a prerecorded message giving the unit's identity, then opens up for two-way communication. The mall found this to be a valuable time-saver when responding to assistance calls.

Features of an effective intercom system include: - strategically located emergency call-in buttons; - automatic sound detection from selected areas; - alarm annunciation at security control; - fast, clear, two-way voice communication; - intercom back-up to CCTV video monitoring; - multiple inputs to mobile radios; - automatic alarms to wireless pocket pagers; - PC-controlled capability for flexibility, expansion and call-logging; and - easy integration with access control and CCTV.

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© 2008 Penton Media Inc.

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