Intercoms can be an incredibly useful addition for a lot of businesses, which is why they’ve been growing in popularity over the past decade. They can be used to communicate between rooms or even buildings, to stream music, to keep an eye on employees working in other areas, and to see who’s at the entrance before letting them in.
If your system has started looking a little worse for wear, it might be time to start thinking about updating or replacing an old intercom system.
At Tekplex Solutions, we pride ourselves on delivering premium and bespoke electronic intercom systems and ongoing maintenance to commercial clients around Melbourne. We can help you to determine whether it’s time for a replacement, as well as help you to choose a new system that complements your business activities.
When to Consider a Replacement
A lot of people have the mindset that ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’. But just because your intercom system is physically working doesn’t mean that it’s providing a benefit to your business. In fact, an outdated system can actually do more harm than good.
If you’re thinking about replacing an old intercom system, start by asking yourself these questions:
- Is your current system working properly?
- Does it have remote access?
- Is it intuitive?
- Does it have locking capabilities?
If you answered ‘no’ to even one of these questions, then it’s time for a replacement.
Even if your current system is working, consider how many times it’s had to be repaired since it was installed or you moved into the premises. If it’s been three or more times, it’s probably on its last legs and it’s time to consider a replacement.
Also, consider the level of crime in your area. If you’ve noticed an increase in unwelcome visitors, trespassers and even break-ins, upgrading to a more modern intercom system with additional features could help to improve the security of your business.
Features of Modern Intercom Systems
The main feature of any intercom system is that it allows communication between different areas or buildings. A person simply pushes a button and talks into the microphone; their voice is carried to the relevant speaker.
As we touched on above, however, modern systems offer additional features that make them incredibly valuable in the business environment. Some of these newer features include:
- Video calling
- Internet connectivity
- Remote access
- Group calling
- Noise cancellation
- Access control
Choosing a Replacement System
When replacing an old intercom system, there are a few things that you need to consider:
- Who will be using the system? Also, take into account how big your premises are and what areas need to be covered.
- Which employees will need access? Does anyone have hearing trouble? How loud are the areas you’ll be installing the system in?
- How much integration do you want? Some of today’s systems can be combined with CCTV security systems if desired.
- Do you want remote access? This will allow you to use your smartphone to interact with the system, no matter where you are.
- Should you go wired or wireless? Whilst wired systems are typically more reliable, older buildings may not be set up for this.
The answers to these questions will give you a better idea of the must-have features that your new intercom system should possess. If you’re unsure of how to answer any of these questions, be sure to reach out to your security expert for assistance.
Choosing a Location for the System
Depending on the intercom system you’ve ultimately chosen, it may be comprised of up to three different components:
- The Base Station, which is the brain of the system and controls all the other parts;
- The Substation, which is like speakers located throughout your premises; and
- Intercom Stations, are individual units that can be wall-mounted, placed on a desk, or even handheld.
Choosing where to install the base station and accompanying units is actually quite an involved decision and one that should not be made without the assistance of your security system expert.
Upgrade to a Modern Intercom System with Tekplex Solutions
Let’s face it – intercom systems can be complicated! From understanding your options to knowing which brands to buy, it can be overwhelming if you’ve never done this before. This is why it’s always best to hire a professional and let them handle the installation for you.
The friendly team at Tekplex Solutions has years of experience in replacing old intercom systems for business owners – plus, we can also handle ongoing maintenance and support.
