6 Reasons to Pick an IP Intercom System over a Traditional Intercom
Technological advancement once saw the advent of traditional intercoms, a communication setup that started by utilizing technologies similar to how telephones operated. However, the world has moved past it as IP intercom systems are now the go-to option for several reasons.
By the way, the usefulness of intercom systems at large transcends just homes and regular offices. For example, they have played big roles in the evolution of television and mainstream entertainment. You can click here for more information about this.
In this article, we will focus on helping you see reasons to invest in IP intercom systems rather than an outdated setup. So, read on to find out more.
Advantages of IP Intercom Systems over Traditional Intercoms
Intercom systems have become a necessity for many businesses, institutions, and even homes within and outside the country. However, it is only ideal that the right choice is made when the need to choose arises.
This explains the advice to opt for IP intercoms over traditional options. Some of the reasons for this recommendation include the following:
Audio & Video Quality
Intercoms are communication tools, which is why it makes very little or no sense to use them if audio and/or video quality will be compromised. Well, this is more of a possibility with traditional intercoms, mainly because they rely on analog signals.
Several things can lead to the degradation of analog signals, with poor wiring and interference being high on the list. As a result, it is better to opt for something that guarantees audio and video quality, which is what IP intercom systems offer.
Their reliance on far more reliable digital technology ensures seamless communication by enhancing clarity and minimizing noise, among other things. It is also one for the long term, making it particularly beneficial for settings where communication is vital.
Remote Access & Control
When it comes to accessibility, control, and flexibility, traditional intercoms do not come any close to IP intercom systems. The rigidity of the former due to their reliance on a wired range is the major reason for this. In clearer terms, the network range is determined by the physical network structure available, implying that network accessibility is impossible outside the structure’s range.
On the other hand, enhanced control is one of the highlight features of the more modern IP intercom system. For example, remote access & control using external devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones is very possible.
This makes it possible to perform actions such as granting access and monitoring entry points. The point is that they do not have to be restricted to a certain range before this communication setup can be engaged.
Scalability & Integration
Business growth is something that business owners and major players in such businesses hope for. However, with business growth comes the need to scale up, and this requires the expansion of existing intercom systems.
Doing this with traditional intercoms is usually labor-intensive and generally costly. It requires the installation of additional hardware and wiring. However, an IP intercom system would not require that much as its expansion can happen without extensive modifications. For starters, it is usually designed for third-party integration.
It is this functionality that makes it possible to integrate security systems such as smart locks, CCTV cameras, and access control systems. This is very important considering that increased security is often an important requirement with business growth.
Enhanced Security
This should come as no surprise, considering how seamless third-party integration with security systems happens, as explained above. Furthermore, there are in-built security features that further justify this, including:
- Mobile Authentication
- Real-Time Monitoring
- Encrypted Communication
- Facial Recognition
The above-listed and several others ensure that security is not compromised even as communication happens seamlessly. On the other hand, traditional intercoms are more exposed because of the outdated form of technology that they deploy, increasing the possibility of security breaches. Considering how important security is, this makes opting for an IP intercom system the right decision.
Long Term Cost-Effectiveness
The upfront/initial cost of getting an IP intercom system is usually way more than the cost of getting a traditional intercom system. This is a major reason why many who end up with the latter opt for it, as they act under the impression that it is a cost-effective choice.
Well, that is far from the truth, as initial purchase and installation costs are not a sufficient yardstick for determining how cost-effective an intercom system is. Other factors, including maintenance, hardware replacement cost, wiring issues, and frequent repairs, need to be considered.
Bearing this in mind, it turns out that an IP intercom system is by far the more cost-effective option. This is especially true when you think long-term. For example, their maintenance cost is low compared to traditional systems.
Its overall operational expenses are lower when compared to traditional systems. By the way, there is also the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of scalability for growing businesses.
Future-Proof Investment
The rate at which technology keeps evolving suggests that this trend will not be slowing down any time soon. As a result, investment in future-proof technologies must be a priority when setting up any system.
Bearing this in mind, traditional intercom systems should be ruled out. This is because they do not even align well with current technologies.
Furthermore, they are susceptible to issues that can compromise communication & security. Signal interference, wear & tear, and wiring troubles are prime examples of such issues. For more information on this, you can see: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/communication-security#:~:text=Communication%20Security%20refers%20to%20measures,physical%20security%20of%20communication%20materials
For starters, you would not have such issues with an IP intercom system because of its extensive utilization of modern networking protocols. In essence, efficiency and reliability are guaranteed. Furthermore, they are further proof considering how staying up to date usually requires executing updates and integrating some third-party systems.
Conclusion
Although the initial cost of having an IP intercom system may seem way more than traditional intercoms, the former is the right option. This is for the six reasons discussed here and several others.
However, you should also be mindful of the system you choose if you plan on getting value for money and enjoying all the benefits listed above. You should therefore take some time to make an informed choice.
