Wireless communications is available for residential and commercial applications. Residential has a range up to 300 feet and commercial units have a range of two plus miles. These are virtually wireless intercoms for users to communicate with visitors at a door or gate. The user can also release a door or activate a gate so the visitor can gain access.
Wireless communication is more then just wireless
intercoms. Some systems include wireless PA systems, wireless digital announcements to inform management
of conditions such as temperature, humidity,
or unauthorized use of exits. Wireless communications
can even be used to activate electrical devices
such as motors, lights or fans.
The most popular are wireless intercoms. They provide two way communication between a visitor at a gate and a client's home or staff at a commercial concern. Wireless intercoms are available in commercial or residential models. A weather resistant intercom is installed at the gate or door. The visitor presses a button on the intercom which sends a signal to a portable base station located in the residence home or office. The base station produces an audible signal to announce the guest arrival. The resident presses and holds a button on the base station while speaking to the guest. To reply, the guest must also press the button on the intercom. The resident can open the gate remotely by pressing a second button.
Wireless intercoms are a practical alternative
to telephone entry systems or intercoms, both
which require labor intensive wiring. Wireless
intercoms eliminates costly trenching, installation
of conduit and the pulling of wires between the
gate and residence. The range of a wireless intercom
is directly related to site conditions and other
radio transmissions. Site conditions may limit
the range or quality of the audio signal making
the use of a wireless intercom unacceptable.
It is recommended to test a wireless intercom
to assure the range and quality of the
audio are acceptable prior to permanently mounting
the components.
The savings and convenience that wireless intercoms provide are not without a cost of convenience to the user. The necessity of pressing and holding a button is not as convenient as the hands free operation of a telephone entry system. Telephone entry systems can be answered by any telephone at the location where a wireless intercom usually has a single base station.
Wireless is very reliable and perform best in line of site situations. Building structures, communications towers and other equipment will have an impact on the performance and range of the equipment. Consumer expectations should be tempered until an actual system is temporarily installed to confirm that the location does not have an adverse effect on the equipment performance.
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