Intercom systems for homes are very useful in that they can amplify a house’s security, and can also help the house’s occupants communicate better without having to resort to yelling. People who have decided to install a system in the home should look for three indicators; technology, range and security.
A home owner wanting to install one must first decide whether they want a wireless or wired system. Wired systems typically work best in houses where the new intercom will act as a replacement, or in an older house. Typically, these houses will already be outfitted for wires, so installation is just a simple matter of getting an electrician or telephone operator to do the installation. Some wired system offer extras such as radio or music players, to add a little ambiance to a location. However, it is also acceptable to install a system that just does the basic voice communication.
Otherwise, a homeowner may decide to install a wireless intercom system, depending on the house location and his or her technological ability. Surprisingly, wireless systems are not at all complicated, and are developed to be used by laymen. The advantages of home wireless intercoms, is that they can be plugged in or be carried around or moved in order to maximize their benefits. Furthermore, there is no need to drill holes or run wires, as some systems can be mounted instead of being fixed to walls.
Obviously wireless systems have the technological advantage but there is a downside to choosing wireless. First, wireless systems are susceptible to interference from other devices. Just as a computer may be affected by a ringing mobile, it is possible for the wireless system to pick up signals from other sources. A radio, television or another device at another location may interfere with reception and the proper relay of messages and images. Secondly, it is possible for the signal to be tapped. To prevent this try getting a wireless system with a certain range – about 200 kHz to 270 kHz or 2.4 GHz will do.
Wired systems, too, have their disadvantages. If the house’s wiring is shoddy, or if the system has not been installed along the correct lines, then it is very likely that the system will not work well. The wires are also susceptible to outside influences on the interior walls, so that it is quite possible to have ‘weird’ experiences with the wired intercom system from time to time.
The best range for a system is 1000 to 1500 feet. With a wireless system, this can be extended due to their mobility. However, performance for both types of device drops outside at the limits of this range. Additional equipment will have to be utilized, if the homeowner’s needs extend beyond this.
Lastly, security is an important function of the system. There are no cons, exactly, associated with security, but which features one chooses depend a lot on actual need. Will the house need video monitoring, or just sound? Will locks be necessary, in case the device must stay on in a certain area? These are good questions to consider before making a purchase.
Intercom systems, on the whole, are good investments. Make sure that the investment chosen is the right one.