Tech Watch

Apr 1, 2008 12:00 PM

By simplifying communication, intercoms promote security and begin the process of visitor management by identifying individuals before they enter a facility. Some of the latest intercom products include high-resolution video and options to integrate cameras and access control system components.

Hands-Free Color Video Intercom

IDENTIFIES VISITORS IN HIGH-RESOLUTION VIDEO The JF Series color video intercom system from Aiphone features hands-free and push-to-talk communication, a slim design and is available in five door station models. The system identifies visitors clearly both day and night. In low-light conditions, the unit's built-in white LED illuminator activates and sends a clear color image to the 3.5-in. TFT (thin film transistor) color LCD monitor. For hands-free or VOX (voice operated exchange) communication, the LED light turns on when users speak with visitors and turns off when the user is listening. For push-to-talk and release-to-listen communication, the LED light turns on when pushed and turns off when released. Users can monitor the area around the unit without inside sound being heard from the outside to ensure privacy. The intercom is suitable for education, government, commercial, health care and residential applications. JF Series, Aiphone (aiphone.com) Circle No. 1 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Multi-Unit Audio/Video Intercom System

INTERCOM UNITS ARE AVAILABLE IN SIX FINISHES The QwikBUS video and intercom entry system from Alpha Communications requires only two looped wires for installation and features open voice intercom technology, which does not use “talk” or “listen” buttons. Users can install up to 120 monitor stations and up to eight lobby entry stations per application. Lobby entry stations are available with optional Prox readers and biometric access modules. Users can mix and match audio-only intercom and video intercom stations on one QwikBUS system, choosing from the supplier's 12 audio-only intercom and video monitor station models. The video intercom system features a 4-in. LCD color screen monitor and can be surface- or flush-mounted. Intercom stations are available in six finishes, including 24-carat gold-plated, crystal (glass), white, anthracite, stainless steel and titanium. QuikBUS, Alpha Communications (alpha-comm.com) Circle No. 2 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

IP/Ethernet Audio Intercom System

OPERATES OVER WIRED, WIRELESS AND FIBER NETWORKS Digital Acoustics' IP7 Series IP/Ethernet Audio intercom and paging systems deliver voice-quality audio over an Ethernet/IP connection in local area (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN). The product family includes intercoms and I/O expansion products, ICC-based paging and intercom board products, speaker systems and software development kits (SDKs). The series' modular IP edge-device design allows for scalability in a range of application sizes. Features include the ability to convert analog call stations or speakers for IP-based two-way communication, a DIN rail or optional surface mount, an on-board relay and sensor for door/gate access control and a multicast protocol for timely message delivery across multiple networks. The system's audio uses 64 kbps of bandwidth. Applications can include classroom intercom/paging; corporate, building and campus communication; door/gate communication and access; and distress point communication. IP7 Series, Digital Acoustics (digitalacoustics.com) Circle No. 3 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Rescue Assistance Intercom System

MEETS ADA AREA OF RESCUE ASSISTANCE COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS During an emergency, building occupants can use the multiplexed Pro-Alert 480 intercom system from Jeron Electronic Systems to call for assistance from an ADA-designated Area of Rescue in high-rise buildings and commercial facilities. The system operates over a Cat-5 bus cable using addressable call stations to conduct hands-free, two-way communication with the master station. The minimal need for conduit, wire and labor minimizes installation costs. Multiple master stations are supported, and the intercom is expandable to accommodate high-rise buildings that have a requirement for an Area of Rescue Assistance communication system and riser-based applications. Pro-Alert 480, Jeron Electronic Systems (jeron.com) Circle No. 4 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Emergency Phone and Broadcast System

SPEAKERS PROVIDE 180 DEGREES OF COVERAGE The wall-mounted Wide-Area Emergency Broadcast System (WEBS) from Talk-a-Phone features an integrated ADA-compliant emergency phone and concealed high-power side speakers to provide 180 degrees of coverage. Users can remotely broadcast to WEBS stations individually, in selected groups or in an all-call configuration with the use of a Zone Paging System. The unit features an attention-getting blue light/strobe that is continuously lit and mounted behind a polycarbonate window. The strobe is activated by an emergency button when a call is placed or by command of a remote guard calling into the emergency phone. The unit's faceplate is lit at all times by ultra-bright LED lights. Users can choose from a range of lettering, signage and color choices. Optional accessories include the addition of a fixed CCTV camera, CCTV housing and a pole-mounting kit. WEBS Wall Mount, Talk-a-Phone (talkaphone.com) Circle No. 5 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Audio/Video Intercom Systems

FOR COMMERICAL AND RESIDENTIAL APPLICATIONS SSS Siedle's iDor Handset intercom systems were designed for retrofit applications using a two-wire BUS protocol technology. The system can save time and money by using the existing wires in a user's building for simplified installation. The iDor Handset systems are available in packages that include entry stations, internal stations and the power supply for any application with up to four doors and four master/sub-master stations. Features include high-resolution color video, plug-and-play programming and a compact, aesthetic design. Options include external camera, HID Prox/iCLASS Reader and access control system integration capabilities. In addition, users can add an anti-theft device to the unit. iDor Handset Packaged Systems, SSS Siedle (siedleusa.com) Circle No. 6 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

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© 2008 Penton Media Inc.

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