All wireless intercoms are installed differently. Communications by analogue, portable  and even the digital intercoms are distinct from each other. Only one thing matters with wireless intercoms; they way people communicate should still be easy as 1-2-3.

Wire ‘em Up

When we talk about analogue intercoms, we know that they have a direct current of 12, 30 or 48 volts to be able to carry voice signals with 1 or 2 volts. This passes through conductors on power rails. There are two ways that the signal lights can get through: send the tone frequencies of the voice below or above the audio frequency band or send through another conductor. In the same manner, if there are several conversations on various channels, we either use frequency/time-division multiplexing or  add conductors for the analogue device. Packet-switched digital intercoms are also used to allow multiple channels to communicate.
The connections used in portable intercoms are the covered and twisted pair of microphone cable which ends through 3-pin XLR connectors. These are also used by transportation and building intercoms. One difference is that its covered cable may have several twisted pairs. As for digital intercoms, to be able to communicate in Internet-protocol-architecture data packets, Category 5 should be used.

Intercoms for Media and Brodcast

There are two commonly used intercom systems in the media industry; very handy for TV stations and broadcast vehicles when they cover events. The two-wire party line and four wire matrix systems  are as generally used as the wireless intercoms are used today. It was a great improvement when TV stations stated using off-the-shelf systems compared to the old phones.

The Two-wire system

We saw in the 70s til mid ‘90s the use of the two-wire line party. It can utilize 32 volts of impedance that produce power supply brought to belt packs and drive stations. The operation of two channels with standard microphone cable can be done by using the two channel type. It is low maintenance and designed for long-lasting use, although it’s flexibility is in question and it being hardwired. If one tries to use it to communicate in a group or individual, he would need to reconfigure it to be  able to transmit messages to others.
Two-wire routers or source-assigned panels at the central location system allow the re-configuration. Pops occur when channels are switched because of the usage of the circuit for communication and external power. During production, it is not advisable to change systems. The popping sound will only distract the production crew.

The Four-wire system

The mid 90s has seen the usage of the small and cheap technology of the four-wire intercoms. It had been around for awhile, however, to carry out such technology needed more money and it gained less popularity. Large physical footprints are required when using these intercoms, which only big stations and TV networks can use. As for recognition, the wireless systems gained more than the wireless intercoms.

Motion alert detector is just one of the devices that can help boost a security system. Together with the installation of wireless intercoms in the building, the security system is further improved. It’s an inexpensive method that keeps your business safe. Here’s how:

1. Saves you money on equipment and installation.

Instead of purchasing an individual security system, incorporate your existing security devices to the wireless intercoms thus saving you more money. Installation of these wireless devices does not need the expertise of professionals for there are no wires involved so you don’t have to spend on one. And in case of having a MURS Alert Transmitter, transmission can reach the distance of four miles to any MURS Multi-Mile Base Wireless Intercom or/and Handheld Radio within range. As a result, buying four miles worth of wire is avoided.

2.  Save on security personnel fee.

Motion alert detectors can be used as a replacement of hiring personnel to take charge of your security. Rather than employing four personnel, four MURS Alert devices are just as effective in monitoring four different areas at the same time. Wireless intercom units can do the work of both monitoring and alerting without the need for workers.

3. Save on utility costs.

Putting up lights in any indoor or outdoor areas that need illumination for 24 hours or less can be an expensive venture. But with MURS Alert Transmitter, day or night, no added lighting is needed for it uses infrared sensors. For MURS Alert Probe sensor, monitoring driveways or any areas accessible by vehicles can be done either with light or not.

Setting up monitoring devices in isolated or remote areas is a very good idea. Security personnel have less risk of confronting armed burglars head on. In cases when unidentified movements are detected, an alert will sound off to handheld radios or intercom base and which in turn using the intercom system, the one in command can alert and send out security personnel to the location or he/she can just call the proper authorities. With this, personnel will be able to face the threat prepared.

Setting up an intercom and security systems in your business is an investment. However, instead of spending on two systems you can get one for a reasonable price. Integrate motion detector devices to your wireless intercom system and you will get one system that can be use for communication and security purposes.

Wireless Intercoms: Choose the Right One

Are you thinking of buying another wireless intercom system? Then keep in mind to check if the intercoms at hand are compatible with the new device. Also, consider the required features and range of the wireless intercoms you need.

Wireless Intercom Frequencies
The FCC of United States offers six frequency ranges that need no license to operate wireless devices, namely; 49MHz, 900MHz, 2.4GHz, 5.8GHz, Family Radio Service (FRS), and the newly added Multi-Use Radio (MURS) service. With the exception of MURS, these frequencies are the same as in Canada.

When wireless intercoms are first launched, it uses the frequency 49MHz spectrum. These devices are cordless telephones of earlier version, cheap baby monitors, and units that uses low-end spectrum. These units have short range and conversations are frequently interrupted due to interference so it is no wonder that these wireless intercoms are rarely seen in the market today.

Next came the products using 900MHz analog transmission. Just like the 49MHz products, conversations are not secured and any products tuned in to the same frequency can listen to. However, with the newer 900MHz digital spread spectrum, communications are more private for digital transmission are divided to different frequency range; and compared to analog 900MHz products, this have bigger range. Available on the market nowadays are no less than 2 wireless intercoms but just one uses this spectrum and have a range of 1000 feet the most.

Then the frequency that video intercom systems use is the 2.4GHz spectrum and a lot of cordless telephones as well although the wireless video intercoms have been lately discontinued by manufacturers. This frequency range is what WiFi wireless data networks (802.11B/G) use thus devices using this spectrum can interact with one another.

From walkie talkies came the Family Radio Service (462-467MHz) that uses the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) spectrum. The units are mostly handheld radios, no wireless intercom systems, and have heavy traffic competing with intercom systems so anybody can eavesdrop on any conversations.

The newer cordless phones are now using the 508GHz brand among other products. Devices using 5.8GHz and 2.4GHz can work together for there are no compatibility issues but there are no wireless intercom systems using this spectrum.

Then there is the “FM wireless intercoms” that are called wireless but are not and uses power wiring of the building to deliver transmissions and receive them through the AM band despite the name. An AC adapter is needed in order to use and once it operates, a buzzing or humming sound is heard so it is not suggested by many. Then the typical 240 volts of a house wiring is divided into 2 phases of 120 volts resulting to one side of the house works just fine but the other part does not because there are problems encountered as the signal cross between the phases. These types of intercoms are the cheapest among the others that you will find on the market.

Long Range Wireless Intercoms
The MURS is the latest wireless intercom introduced to the public. It uses the 150 MHz spectrum in a Very High Frequency (VHF). The MURS radios can power up to four times greater than FRS radios and you can increase its range by adding an external antenna. Several manufacturers of antenna declare that external antennas can boost your transmitter by a factor of 4 effectively and you can place it on your roof. With the additional external antenna, MURS intercoms transmission of up to 4 miles can be increased.

Usage of MURS frequencies is for free and no license are needed as pronounced by United States’ Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The MURS have 5 available channels and 38 interference eliminator or “quiet codes” for the channels. The quiet codes will help you keep others from hearing your conversation unless they are on the same channel and quiet code as yours which are unlikely for there is light traffic with MURS.

MURS Intercom system is ideal to use for people with large properties or one need to communicate with the neighbouring buildings. There is also a handheld device you can add to the MURS intercom system you own for convenient communication with those far from home.

Long Range Wireless Outdoor Intercoms
Available now are wireless callboxes, commercially produced, for an easy and convenient communication to two-way radios or base station intercoms. These callboxes are made to open gates or any door with gate relay model with a use of a remote. They come in vandal resistant housing and front panels that are stainless steel, and also designed as water proof as they are to be use outdoors. It also comes in UHF and VHF brand that gives a mile range but can be increase with any external antenna. These wireless callboxes are powered with battery, AD-DC converter, or solar. They have no compatibility problems with other two-way radios and can even work with MURS intercoms/radios.

The greatest advantage with wireless callboxes is that you don’t have to spend money on trenching and running cables. Also there is no air-time or any telephone service fees to be paid. Since it is wireless, handheld radios can be used for communication when one is monitoring the property making him mobile thus very convenient.

Wireless Intercom Features
When buying any wireless intercoms, keep in mind the features you required and select the needed ones from variety of choices. Like the MURS wireless system which comes with the optional two-way military-grade radios complete headsets, base station intercoms, solar-powered wireless callboxes, wireless public address systems, customer service callboxes, wireless remote switches, and even motion detector units. Then with 900MHz intercom system comes with the option of getting outdoor intercoms and doorbell intercoms for residential use.

Selecting wireless intercom system will depend according to the application at hand, other wireless units you own, the needed range coverage, and most important of all, your budget. Be careful in your choices for with the right system you will have many years to benefit from your wireless intercoms

Components

This MURS 151-XT system comes with a Callbox that can be set up on the course’s 9th hole or on any location you want. This Callbox is like the MURS Callbox Outdoor Intercom and built with fibreglass and stainless steel that can either be AC powered or battery operated. Also includes a handheld radio that can be carried on the food and beverage cart or on any employees, and one base station intercom. You are given the choice to add unlimited number of devices and combine them as to your preference.

Additionally, you will not have to spend on some costly trenching for the system is wireless. There would also be no complicated and expensive installation required. Since the system is like other MURS Radio that uses unlicensed frequency, you will not need a FCC license to operate.

Win-Win Situation

This system will benefit everybody. With the ordering system, your sales will not only increase but speeds up the golfers at the same time on their play particularly when they reach the 9th hole to take a break and eat their food. Players will then be happy seeing that their food is waiting for them and in turn raising your profits making you happy.

Works with Other MURS Products

The MURS 151-XT system is compatible with other MURS Radio wireless products. They have the same parts with MURS Commercial Intercom and MURS Callbox Outdoor Intercom so they can work together. This MURS 151-XT is available on packaged-priced and consists of 1 MURS Callbox Outdoor Intercom, 1 MURS Commercial Intercom, and 1 MURS 146 Handheld Radio.

MURS 151-XT Wireless Ordering System further safeguard your customers as well as employees with the NOAA Weather Scan that the handheld units and base station intercom has. It is now possible to notify both parties in advance if there are any serious weather conditions approaching. Safety of your customers is brought to another level with the Callboxes for they can be used to send out help such as deploying emergency defibrillator. Having this type of MURS Radio installed on your course will surely bring more golfers to your place compared to others.

MURS Alert monitors everything, people, animals, and vehicles. Once it detects something, a message alert is sent to MURS Multi-Mile Base Intercom base station and as well as MURS Handheld units. You can use four units of MURS Alert to monitor four different zones the most at the same time.

When an alert message is received, you will hear not a tone but a phrase such as “Alert Zone One,” “Alert Zone Two,” “Alert Zone Three,” or “Alert Zone Four” repeated three times depending on what zone is triggered. When setting up the transmitter, you can select the type of alert message you want. In the event that a zone is triggered, MURS base stations’ relay switch will be activated. To make the alert louder so everybody can hear, simply wire a siren or bell or any external alert device to the relay switch.

MURS Alert Transmitter and Probe Sensor are similar to other MURS Radio handheld units and base stations in which they can select the channels and sub-channels they want, 5 and 38 respectively, in order to avoid any interference. Both the transmitter and sensor have an extended range; monitoring  difficult areas possible. It can monitor customer traffic for businesses, farm sites that are vacant for farmers, remote warehouses for security guards, and game trails for hunters. With the MURS Radio MURS Alert, you can now monitor any location you want in real time.

Being able to call for help is important wherever the elderly person is – outside, bathroom or bedroom. Although medical alert devices are available that involves membership dues per month but it is too much for an elderly living with his/her caregiver. So the answer to this is MURS Radios. MURS Radios are wireless intercoms that can be conveniently placed in key areas of the house to easily reach caregivers.

The intercoms are battery-powered with battery life of 12 months and portable. There are no limits as to how many you can use and these intercoms give a range of 1000 feet at most. Additionally, digital security is provided to keep your conversations private.

Bath taking is one of the things that elderly people still like to do independently if they can. However, the National Safety Council noted that one U.S. citizen dies from shower or bathtub use every day and bathing is one of the dangerous activities that elderly people do. Placing a waterproof intercom inside the shower or bathtub is prudent for easy communication. These MURS Radios are needed to call for the caregiver as the hot water of the bath relaxes the elderly person’s muscles making it hard for them to get out of the tub by their own.

The device used should be battery operated to prevent the risk of electrocution. You can use either a portable radio or cordless phone but waterproof they aren’t. That’s why a waterproof MURS Radios are still the best and installed on the bathtub wall for easy reach. Having a conversation between the caregiver and the elderly in the tub is possible with just a press to a button.

MURS Radios can also be installed outside where aging parents mostly sit the day. These intercoms can even be attached to a wheelchair if the elderly parent is wheelchair-bound.

Having MURS Radios installed in your home everyone would feel secured knowing that caregivers or any assistance is readily available and within reach.

An outdoor intercom is a heavy duty weatherproof wireless system that allows easy communication between separate outdoor areas from indoors to an outdoor area. An outdoor intercom system may comprise of portable or mounted units, or a combination of both. These intercoms usually provides long-distance communication with up to a mile of coverage area. Some outdoor intercom units can even have a wider coverage with an add-on external antenna. An outdoor intercom system is very useful for businesses that require reliable two-way communication between distant parties and over large properties.

• Handheld Radios. MURS Radios outdoor intercom system may include portable units such as handheld radios. This enables roaming employees such as security personnel to communicate with the base station and/or with fellow roaming units, allowing for more efficient communication.

• Callboxes. Aside from portable units, a callbox can also be a part of MURS radios system. Callboxes can be set in usually unmanned areas, allowing communication between long distances. Outdoor callboxes are usually heavy duty, most of them weatherproof.

MURS radios Callboxes can have many features such as a gate relay. This provides remote access to systems that have an on/off switch such as magnetic doors, gates, lights and even alarm systems. This feature allows businesses to have switches manipulated at a a control station rather than having employees stationed at the swich area.
Another important feature of a callbox is the listen function. With a press of a button, users can listen to the sounds within the vicinity of the murs radios callbox, allowing users to monitor areas remotely. This feature can greatly enhance the security of business properties.
For more information on wireless intercom systems to suit your business today, visit MURS radios.
]]> http://wirelessoutdoorintercom.wordpress.com/2010/10/19/murs-radios-the-most-convenient-intercom-for-business/feed/ 0 sherman135 http://wirelessoutdoorintercom.wordpress.com/2010/09/28/emergency-alert-notification-system/ http://wirelessoutdoorintercom.wordpress.com/2010/09/28/emergency-alert-notification-system/#comments Tue, 28 Sep 2010 10:34:14 +0000 sherman135 http://wirelessoutdoorintercom.wordpress.com/?p=34 ]]> An emergency alert notification system can operate on several different levels.  They can be designed to broadcast over an entire property so that people can be informed and instructed on what to do in the case of an emergency.  Alternatively, they can be used on a much more personal level to notify family members or emergency services when someone (who may be elderly or disabled) needs assistance.  In either context, these systems can be a life-saving investment.

Personal emergency alert systems have advanced to an amazing level.  This has given a huge boost to the freedom of elderly or disabled people who want to live on their own.  There is now an emergency alert notification system, known as “Emergency Alert” that can be worn as a small pendant in a convenient location, such as around the neck, on a wrist band or attached to a wheelchair.  This pendant is contains a speakerphone that is connected to a base unit using two-way communication technology.

If an emergency occurs, the wearer can use the pendant to communicate with the base unit in order to phone pre-programmed contact people or 911 immediately.  They can be in anywhere in the home, yard or driveway, so long as they are within a certain range of the base unit.  Imagine the relatively common situation where an elderly person slips and falls in their backyard or bathroom and is unable to get to the phone.  With this personal emergency alert notification system they would be able to contact a friend, family member or emergency services immediately.  This would significantly ease their stress, pain and further damage.

This personal communication system can easily be customized to call up to four designated contacts and then 911.  Alternatively, it can be set to immediately call 911 when activated.  This is a matter of personal preference.  Setting it to dial 911 means that the wearer has access to emergency services at any time of day or night any time of the year.  This provides great peace of mind for the individual themselves and their families.  Emergencies can happen anywhere, but with this emergency alert notification system the victim need not be stuck without being able to communicate.

You can also add up to three extra pendants to the system so that several people can use the one device.  This is great for spouses or small group home scenarios.  The pendants are also completely water resistant, which means that they can be worn in the bath or shower.  This is an excellent feature considering that a lot of emergency situations take place in the bathroom.  You can also mount additional devices similar to the pendant on walls at various locations on the property, such as on the bathroom wall or next to the bed.  This means that the emergency alert notification system will continue to be useful even if the person forgets to wear their individual pendant.

These amazing devices have enhanced the freedom and quality of life for people who may have previously been concerned about living on their own without being able to contact emergency services.

Being able to control an emergency situation quickly can save your business thousands of dollars in repair costs.  It can also prevent legal actions from arising in the unfortunate case that people are injured on the property.  Emergency action notification is a cost-effective method of mitigating the potential expenses that may arise follow an emergency.

Wireless technology has made installing these communications systems a breeze.  All that you need to do is affix the PA receiver units and speakers in appropriate locations around the property.  You can then use hand held radios or other radio devices to connect with the receivers in order to broadcast the messages.  There is no need at all for burying wires or hiding them out of the way in walls.  Once installed, there is also very little need for ongoing maintenance.

One of the major benefits of a wireless communications system is that the announcements can be made using hand held devices.  This means that you don’t need to rely on being able to access a control center in order to send the messages.  This is a significant improvement from the older wired emergency action notification systems which were often rendered completely useless when the control center is cut off as a result of the emergency situation.

The fact that the messaging device is handheld also means that the operator is able to follow the situation closely anVVd provide updates to the people involved in real-time.  There is no need to relay the information to a communications center before it is given over the public system.  This can make a real difference in emergency situations where time is of the essence.  The person with the handheld radio device can be up to 2 miles away from the system for it to be picked up.  This range can be extended to over 2 miles with the addition of larger antennas to the receiver or the radio device.  The range of these emergency action notification systems is very important for large properties, such as university campuses.

Depending on the radio frequency that you choose for the broadcasting, you may also be able to pick-up important messages (such as weather updates) that are critical for the emergency response efforts.  You can also integrate the wireless communications system with other products on your property, such as motion detectors and security lighting.  This can create a totally holistic system which provides the best possible security, communication and emergency response capabilities.  This is a value-add for your business property in so many ways that you simply can’t afford to ignore it.