Enhancing Security and Convenience in Your Business or Home Using Smart Intercoms.

Are you wondering how smart intercom systems can contribute to your family or businesses safety and security? At EAV we advocate that effective communication can increase a layer of security in your home or business. One question we are often asked at EAV, is how smart seamless communication plays a vital role in maintaining a safe environment in your home or business.

Intercom systems play a crucial role in connecting the inside of a premises to the outside, providing a means to verify the identity of visitors and maintain a barrier of protection.

In this article, we will explore the importance of intercom systems, their cost implications, common problems encountered, and a detailed comparison of different types and models available in the market. Having a thorough understanding of these factors will help you make informed decisions when installing an intercom system for your home or business.

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Effective Communication Through Intercom Systems.?

Intercom systems serve as a vital tool for maintaining security and peace of mind in both residential and business settings. They allow individuals to communicate with visitors before granting access, acting as a physical protective barrier. At EAV we acknowledge that by providing a connection between the inside and outside of a house through microphones and speakers, intercom systems offer the following benefits:

• Verification of visitor identity: Intercom systems enable individuals inside the house to verify the identity of visitors before granting them access, ensuring the safety of those inside.
• Protection from potential threats: By providing a barrier between the inside and outside, intercom systems help keep individuals inside protected from potential intruders or threats. By implementing this, knowing that you can communicate with visitors and control access to your property can alleviate stress and bring a sense of security and peace of mind.?
• Convenience and time-saving: Intercom systems save time and effort by enabling remote verification and access control. For instance, in multi-story buildings or offices, intercom systems eliminate the need to manually open the door on a different floor.

Varying Costs of Intercom systems:?

Understanding the cost implications of an intercom system is essential for budgeting and making informed purchasing decisions. The cost of an intercom system can vary based on several factors, including:

• Specifications and features: Audio and visual intercom systems may be more expensive than audio-only systems due to the added functionality of video.
• Wired vs. wireless: Hard-wired intercom systems, which are connected by electrical wiring, provide clarity and reliability but may be more expensive to install. Wireless intercom systems, relying on WiFi, Bluetooth, or 3G radio waves, offer easier installation but can be prone to interference and hacking.
• Integration and additional features: Intercom systems that integrate with mobile devices, offer touchpad or key-fob entry, or have advanced security features may have a higher cost.
• Installation: The cost of installation can vary depending on whether it's a new installation or a replacement. Additional costs, such as carpentry work or repositioning of units, should also be considered.

Here are the prices for Control4 and DS2 products:

Control4 Chime Video Doorbell:

Wi-Fi (Satin Nickel): ￡478.95 +VAT

PoE (Satin Nickel): ￡507.69 +VAT

Wi-Fi (Black): ￡468.95 +VAT

PoE (Black): ￡497.09 +VAT

DS2 Door Station:

Flush Mount (Brushed Nickel): ￡1,010.00 +VAT ( Alternative colour options, Black - Venetian Bronze)?

Surface Mount w/Keypad (Brushed Nickel) - Bundle: ￡1,168.00?+VAT (Flush mount is the same price) ( Alternative colour options, Black - Venetian Bronze)

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DS2 Mini:

￡941.95?+VAT ( Alternative colour options, Black - Brushed Nickel - Venetian Bronze)

Surface Plate: ￡61.95 +VAT ( Alternative colour options, Black - Brushed Nickel - Venetian Bronze)

Flush Plate: ￡82.95 +VAT ( Alternative colour options, Black - Brushed Nickel - Venetian Bronze)

It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the retailer and location. For the most up-to-date pricing information, check with authorised dealers or sellers.

Four System Issues Your Intercom System May Experience:

• Power supply failure: Intercom systems rely on a power supply, and failure in the power source can lead to system malfunction. It is important to ensure that the power supply is functioning correctly so that it is ready to use.?
• Static or Humming noise: Static noise can occur in intercom systems, which may be caused by loose wires, power issues, or interference. Similarly, a Humming noise from a system may appear due to faulty wiring within the intercom system. If any are identified, it is crucial to address it promptly to prevent further issues or safety risks.?
• Interference from other appliances: Intercom systems may experience interference from other electronic appliances nearby. Keeping intercom systems away from potential sources of interference can help mitigate this problem. This is why it is advised to have the system professionally installed.?
• Alert fatigue: Finally, excessive notifications and alerts from the intercom system(s) can lead to alert fatigue. Adjusting the settings and customising notifications can help manage this issue effectively. Contact us today, if you require any assistance managing your app.?

Comparing Different Intercom systems: Control4 DS2 Mini Vs. Control4 Chime Video Doorbell Vs. Ring Doorbell:

When comparing intercom systems, it's essential to consider various options available at different price points. Let's take a closer look at the Control4 DS2 Mini, Ring Doorbell, and Control4 Chime Video Doorbell:

Control4 DS2 Mini (Price point starting at ￡960): The DS2 Mini stands out with its integration capabilities and expanded functionality within a home automation system. Key points highlighting the advantages of the DS2 Mini include:

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• Display on Touch Panels: When the DS2 Mini is rung, it can display the front door image on touch panels throughout the home, providing convenience and accessibility even without a mobile phone.
• One-Way Video: The DS2 Mini offers one-way video, allowing users to quickly assess visitors without being seen themselves, making it ideal for situations like cooking in the kitchen or getting ready in the bathroom.
• Integration with Control4 Intercom: The DS2 Mini seamlessly integrates with the Control4 Intercom platform, enabling communication between Android, iOS devices, and touch screens within the home. This functionality is particularly useful for remote calling to touch panels and facilitating conversations without relying solely on mobile phones.
• Additional Functions: The DS2 Mini goes beyond a standard video doorbell by offering features such as triggering gate unlocking or opening garage doors directly from the touch panel, enhancing convenience and home security.

Control4 Chime Video Doorbell (Price point starting at ￡322.90): For those looking for a video doorbell that fully integrates with the Control4 Smart Home system, the Control4 Chime Video Doorbell offers an excellent solution. Some of its features include:

• Integration with Control4 Smart Home: The Control4 Chime Video Doorbell seamlessly integrates with Control4 Smart Home, providing a unified and comprehensive home automation experience.
• High-Quality Video and Audio: With a 5MP HD camera and two-way audio, users can enjoy clear video and audio communication with visitors.
• Customisable Motion Zones: The Control4 Chime Video Doorbell allows users to define and customise motion detection zones, enhancing security and reducing false alerts.
• Cloud Storage: It stores seven days of event recordings in the cloud, ensuring that important moments are captured and easily accessible.

Ring Doorbell (Ring Doorbell pricing starts at ￡99): On the other hand, the Ring video doorbell prioritises simplicity and ease of use, making it a popular viable choice for many consumers due to its price point. Key points highlighting the advantages of the Ring include:

Mobile App Convenience: The Ring excels in providing a user-friendly mobile app interface for monitoring and interacting with visitors. It offers instant alerts, live video feeds, and two-way audio communication, all accessible from a mobile device.

• Widespread Adoption: The Ring has gained widespread popularity and consumer adoption, making it a well-established and trusted brand in the video doorbell market.
• Compatibility with Ring Ecosystem: The Ring seamlessly integrates with other Ring devices and services, creating a comprehensive home security system that can be easily expanded.
• Simplicity and Intuitiveness: The Ring's straightforward setup and intuitive interface make it an accessible choice for homeowners seeking a hassle-free video doorbell solution.

Ultimately, the choice between the Control4 DS2 Mini, Ring Doorbell, and Control4 Chime Video Doorbell depends on individual preferences, priorities and budgets. The DS2 Mini offers enhanced integration and expanded functionalities within a home automation system, while the Ring excels in simplicity, widespread adoption, and compatibility within the Ring ecosystem. The Control4 Chime Video Doorbell provides seamless integration with the Control4 Smart Home system, allowing you to control your home from a single platform.

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Honest and Trusted Reviews from Brands We Endorse:

We think it's important to read reviews and experiences from others who have used the same product to gain valuable and honest feedback before purchasing. Reviews from users provide valuable insights into intercom systems' performance and functionality. Here's a review of the Ring Chime:

"5.0 out of 5 stars Ring Chime: Wi-Fi Speaker for Enhanced Ring Video Doorbell Experience Reviewed in the United States on 26 April 2023 Verified Purchase The Ring Chime is a great addition to my Ring Video Doorbell. It's a Wi-Fi-enabled speaker that allows me to hear the doorbell even when my phone is not nearby. I love that it has a sleek and simple design that blends in with my home decor. The set-up was easy and only took a few minutes. Now, I never miss a visitor or package delivery because I can hear the chime from anywhere in my home. The Chime also has customizable tones, which is a nice touch."

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A Closer Look and Summary of One of Our Favourite Brands

Among all the notable intercom systems, let's take a closer look and summarise why we prefer the Control4 DS2.

Control4 DS2 Door Station: The Control4 DS2 Door Station delivers an amazing audio and HD video intercom experience, enabling customers to monitor and communicate with the front door or their security gate. Some key features we love, include:

• Available in flush-mount and surface-mount options
• Optional integrated keypad for customers with gates or those seeking additional security at their doors
• Fast connection speed
• Camera can be viewed outside of an intercom call
• Improved low-light performance
• Motion detection
• Camera snapshots can be emailed to a customer's mobile device

To Conclude?

Intercom systems are crucial for effective communication, security, and convenience in both residential and business environments. By understanding the cost implications, common problems, and comparing different types and models, residential and commercial owners can make informed decisions when selecting an intercom system. Whether it's the enhanced integration of the DS2 or the simplicity of the Ring, intercom systems play a significant role in enhancing home security and communication. By incorporating these systems, you and those within your premises can enjoy peace of mind and convenience.

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