Things To Consider When Buying An Intercom
Author: Mike Davidson

An intercom is an electronic communication system that is
commonly found in hospitals, schools, offices and other large
buildings, in ships and liners, and even in homes. With just a
push of a button, an intercom system enables people in
different rooms to communicate with each other in an instant.

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

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

2. Know the basics. Different brands may have different
systems, but their basic components are essentially the same.
In general, an 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.

3. Determine the range that you want. Different intercom
systems have varying ranges, with some even reaching almost
1,000 feet (or 304.8 meters).

Choosing the range of your 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).

4. Check its compatibility with your home (or building)
structure. The ability of the intercom system to deliver a good
sound quality 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 be more costly
than the traditional, hard-wired ones, but they have the
advantage of requiring simple installation: just plug them to a
power source, and you're all set!

6. Determine the power supply to be used. Intercom systems can
perform with either of the following power sources:

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

*Batteries (needs regular replacement)

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 guidelines that are mentioned above, shopping
for a perfect intercom will surely be an easy task for you -
allowing you to enjoy the many benefits of a good intercom
system minus the worries and frustrations. Happy hunting!


About The Author: For more great intercom information and
resources check out: http://www.intercomhq.info