Important things to consider when buying an intercom system

What are the important things to consider when buying a condo or building intercom system?

Intercoms are now becoming a popular component not only of workplaces but also of every household.
Bear in mind that the right knowledge and proper caution is important, our simple guidelines below will assist you in finding the perfect intercom that best suits your needs.

1. Budget:

The first important thing to do before shopping for an intercom system is to set your budget limit.
The type, make, brand, quality and features of an intercom system will largely depend on the amount that you are willing to spend on it.

2. Knowing the basics.

Different brands may have different systems, but their basic components are essentially the same.

In general, a wired intercom has the following basic parts:
*The master station - also known as the central control panel, this is the unit that controls the system.
*The sub-stations/door stations - also known as the speakers or slave units, these are connected to the control panel.
*The power supply - this feeds power to all the units in order to make them function.

A wireless intercom simply consists of the panel, when connected to a telephone line and power supply, would be able to facilitate communication for many users.

3. Determine your needs and the range that you want.

Different wired intercom systems have varying ranges, with some even reaching almost 1,000 feet (or 304.8 meters).
Choosing the range of your wired intercom system depends on their use and purpose, which can vary from room to room, floor to floor, and even as far as from one building to another.
In general, intercoms are usually used for the following purposes:
*To connect different rooms.
*To connect rooms to a central office.
*To broadcast announcements/as a public address system.
*To function as a 'bell', especially at schools (to signal the change of classes) and at home (connected to a door buzzer).

For wireless intercoms, like the schonell interphone, range is unlimited.

4. Check its compatibility with your home (or building) structure.

The ability of the intercom system to deliver a good sound quality largely depends on the structure of your home or building.
Obstacles, such as metal walls, may interfere with the signals and prevent your intercom system from producing a clear sound.

5. Choose the desired type of intercom system. Intercom systems can either be hard-wired or wireless.

*Hard-wired or traditional intercom systems - these require wires to connect the entire system that is installed throughout your home (or building). Although they provide minimum interference and/or restrictions, hard-wired intercoms can be expensive to install (even far more expensive than the actual cost of the units themselves). They can also prove to be less convenient, with all the wires running throughout the walls and ceilings.

*Wireless intercom systems - these units may appear to be more costly than the traditional, hard-wired ones, but they will save you much more in labour and infrastructure costs.
Just plug them to a power source, telephone line, and you're all set!

6. Determine the power supply and connections to be used.

Intercom systems can typically perform with either of the following power sources:

*An AC power outlet (or a 12 volts DC power supply)

*Lithium Ion Batteries (May need regular replacement)

Will it require an analogue telephone line or internet access point?

Make sure that the power source and connections required are compatible with your building's setup or project requirements.

7. Check the product's warranty.

In a way, the length of an intercom's warranty, including the extent of its coverage, reflects the manufacturer's confidence in their particular product.
Make sure that you understand the clauses and provisions that are stated in the warranty certificate, and that they are backed not only by the manufacturer but the local dealer (or dealers) as well.

8. Transact business with experienced dealers that are known for their reputation.

They will not only provide you with several possible options but also actually help you in choosing the best intercom that would give the best value for your money.
It is also strongly recommended that you deal with certified and accredited dealers and manufacturers that have been in business for a considerable length of time, who not only offer clear warranty considerations but also extensive after-sales support.

By following the above guidelines, hunting for a perfect intercom will surely be an easy task for you - allowing you to enjoy the many benefits of an effective and reliable intercom system minus the worries, stress and frustrations.

Learn more about the Schonell Interphone