The humble intercom system has come a long way in recent years and is no longer limited to the simple front door unit and control panel. More and more features are being added as technology becomes available and as a result the comfort and security they offer to the homeowner has increased tremendously. Once limited to commercial and apartment use, intercoms are now becoming commonplace in residential homes as they become more affordable and with a wireless system that is easily installed in an existing home. He read on to learn about the benefits you may not have thought possible with a modern intercom system.
1. Personal and home security: Number one on the list for good reason. It goes without saying that the world can be a nasty place and protecting your home and loved ones has never been more important. With the use of a video door phone system, you can see who is at your door before you decide to let them in. If the visitor is not someone you know, you can find out the reason for their visit before opening the door. A video intercom can also be used for surveillance recording, which is useful if you are going to be away from your home for a period of time and many units can support multiple cameras for complete protection.
2. Automated Entry – Add an automatic gate opener to your intercom system and protect your home on the front lines. Gate openers are available to fit all types of gates, from single to double and swing or sliding gates. Open your front door with the push of a button and with an auto-lock unit, ensure that once your visitor is inside, no one else will be able to manually open the door. The control of these units can be integrated into your intercom system and has the option of wired or wireless operation. Another feature that is available on some gate openers is solar-powered operation, which saves electricity and lowers installation costs. With some high end systems the gate can even be operated by your mobile phone!
3. Room Monitoring – With a central control panel and room stations installed throughout the house, you can use your intercom to monitor what’s going on in those rooms. Keep tabs on kids playing in the back room or use it to listen when your sleeping baby wakes up. With these units you can also communicate with the occupants of the room, so the children will have no excuse not to hear you anymore!
4. Have your favorite music in your home – Many control units have the function of inputs for a radio or CD player and some units come with this already built in. Tune in to your favorite radio station or put on your favorite CD and listen to music in every room that has a station installed. Outdoor units are available for patios and entertainment areas, perfect for barbecues or entertaining friends.
5. More home security options: The modern intercom system control unit can be configured to operate video monitoring and recording, motion detectors, window and door sensors, and glass break sensors. They can also offer back-to-base monitoring for a complete home alarm and intercom system in one. Why settle for a simple home alarm when you can have the convenience of both systems in one?