If you are looking for a way to increase your home’s security, you can consider a video intercom system.
This is essentially an audio intercom system that comes attached to a camera. The camera is built into the hardware or comes as an add on. It aims to enable video and audio communication between two or more locations.
Video intercom systems enable high quality two way HD video calling and lots of additional features including:
- Remote entrance monitoring
- Facial recognition
- Remote unlocking
- Key card and mobile access control options and more.
If you’re a business owner, then you can opt for a video intercom system for business too.
Types of video intercom systems
Wired and wireless are the two main types of video intercom systems. Wired systems use cables to connect the outdoor station to the indoor monitors.
On the other hand, wireless systems use radio frequencies or VoIP technology to transfer voice and video signals.
Let’s consider some types of these systems below:
1. Residential doorbell intercom
It is the most common type of video intercom system and is used in single family houses and apartments.
This system contains a doorbell unit, an indoor monitor, and an outdoor camera.
The latest models of these doorbells can place visitor calls on mobile devices.
2. Commercial video intercom
These systems are designed for use in commercial buildings and consist of components like:
- entry panel
- indoor station
- door release button
- master station and
- request to exit
They are also designed to support multi-tenant directory, and the ability to release the door remotely.
3. IP video intercom
It is the most advanced type of video intercom system that uses IP networking for communication.
This system offers features like:
- Two way audio and video
- Call forwarding
- Standoff door release
- Video intercoms with door release
Some video intercom systems include remote door release. The person can unlock the door with the help of a button on their:
- Indoor station
- Mobile app
- Browser interface.
He or she has the opportunity to do this after visually confirming the visitor’s identity.
4.Room to room video intercom
These systems are used in multi-unit apartment and office buildings. They enable room to room audio visual communications within the same residential or commercial building.
This system can include an entry panel and door release button to serve dual purposes of internal communications and access control.
5.Cloud based video intercom system
It is an IP intercom system that uses cloud data and applications to operate on-site hardware. You can manage cloud based video intercoms from anywhere through mobile apps and browsers.
These systems offer many additional cloud based functionalities like:
- Access control
- Remote unlock
- Mobile calling and
- Facial recognition
Advantages of using a video intercom system
A video intercom system offers various advantages including:
- Enhanced security
A video intercom system has the ability to bolster security measures.
Users can communicate with and visually identify visitors before granting access with real time audio and video monitoring at every point.
The cameras’ ability to capture clear and detailed footage of visitors gives video intercom systems an advantage over their audio only counterparts.
That’s because they allow people to make informed decisions when granting access and reducing the risk of unauthorized entries.
- Better communication
Adding a visual component to a video intercom system allows users to see a visitor’s facial expressions and body language and provide valuable context in understanding their purpose.
The ability to visually confirm a visitor’s identity improves communication efficiency. Users can have prior knowledge about the person at the door and see if he/she matches who they were expecting.
- Improved access control
Advanced access control features in video intercom systems can enhance visitor management giving users more effective control over who enters their premises.
Additionally, smart technology integration enables you to access and manage these systems remotely using smartphones, tablets, or computers.
- Convenience
A wireless video intercom system for business provides exceptional convenience, saving time in both residential and commercial settings. Homeowners can pick up their smartphone or device to see and interact with the visitors in real time.
People can remotely view and communicate with visitors, granting access or requesting additional information to attend the door.
Factors to consider before you choose a video intercom system
Some key factors to consider when choosing a video intercom system are:
- Installation and maintenance requirements
Assess how much time, money, and effort it will take to install a new system. Look into the amount of infrastructure and wiring you will need and how well any external hardware will withstand the elements.
- Remote access
Determine whether you will be able to answer doorbell rings from any location or if you will have to be tied to a particular desk or device.
When you connect your intercom to a remote access control system, you can respond to calls and unlock doors from any place.
- Features
Look for various features that offer a good value for your money. Make sure you find a product with excellent video and audio quality to see visitors clearly.
Bottom Line
So do decide the following things before you opt for video intercom systems:
- How many doors you wish to secure
- No of units you want to connect,
- Features
These systems will offer dependable and scalable solutions when you need to enhance the safety and security of your business.
