Checklist for choosing an IP intercom – read before buying

IP intercoms can be used anywhere: in residential premises (apartment buildings, private houses, office buildings), to control what is happening in territories, including large ones and those adjacent to buildings.

The uniqueness of IP intercoms lies in the fact that data transmission to them occurs using a digital line: a local area network or the Internet. Through any device (desktop computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, etc.) connected to this network, you can manage, configure and communicate with the visitor. To fully function on any of these devices, you only need to install the software for the IP intercom.

In addition to the functions of a conventional intercom, an IP video intercom has advantages that make it an indispensable device:

• high image quality easy installation (PoE technology to support power supply);
• ease of use (the ability to control via a computer, including over long distances, remotely;
• the ability to combine several video intercoms and manage them from one device);
• scalability of recording video images; the ability to connect network cameras to IP intercoms (ie, the ability to connect the video surveillance function);
• function of the notification of tenants/employees possibility of association of several devices (for example, neighbors or security points) through a local area network;
• Possibility of integration with security systems Possibility of integration with engineering networks at home, which allows remote control of water meters, electricity meters, household appliances and other devices.

Among the additional features of the IP intercom is the presence of built-in IR illumination in the calling panels.

The IP intercom consists of a calling (external) unit, which is located at the entrance to the premises or at the checkpoint, a user terminal or a video monitor (including a touch one) that allows you to identify a visitor. For the functioning of the system, an IP module is provided, thanks to which the signal and remote devices, the control system are synchronized. To install an IP intercom, you need to set up a local network, provided that it has not been installed before.

When buying an IP intercom, you should pay attention to (choosing an intercom checklist):

• what are the capabilities of the video module;
• what screen resolution;
• what lens and camera resolution;
• how much memory;
• what interface language;
• Is the casing of the outdoor unit impermeable (important for moisture protection);
• whether there is protection against temperature extremes and other negative environmental influences;
• whether the outdoor unit is vandal resistant.

Installing IP intercoms, this process is a little more complicated (compared to conventional intercom systems), since it becomes necessary to set up communication with control devices, set up image transmission and call calls, via a local network or the Internet.

But these are trifles compared to the conveniences that the user of an IP intercom has. IP video intercoms have appeared on the market relatively recently, and their price is still quite high, but this technology is confidently making its way and taking its rightful place in the intercom market.