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There are two main types of 2, 3, 4, and 5 channel long range wireless intercom systems, 900 MHz and line carriers. The long range 900 MHz operate as a cordless phone and they can be plugged in or run off batteries, which comes in handy during a power outage. Line Carrier Wireless Intercoms utilize your electrical lines to move the sound from one unit to another. They must be plugged into electrical outlets at the wall rather than into surge protectors or multi-plex outlets. In addition, they must be in outlets that are on the same breaker box, not separated by sub-panels or by different breaker boxes. For optimal operation they should be plugged into outlets on the same phase or leg of the breaker box. When these operational conditions are met, these wireless intercoms systems are able to operate consistently and clearly.
2, 3, 4, and 5 channel 900 MHz and line carrier long range wireless intercom systems are not only used for communication, they are also perfect for child monitoring, front door response, and gate monitoring and entry. Since they do not require one to run cables, Wireless Intercom Systems are extremely easy to install, especially for homes and offices that are already built. They are also quite easy to operate, and voice activated models even have hands free operation. Since, as stated, almost all models have 2, 3, 4 , or 5 channels, different stations can have their own address and only stations on a certain address will receive a call.
One of the main reasons to use long range wireless intercoms is that the cost of retrofitting a building for a wired system is high. Another reason is portability. With many wired systems a user who is seated typically has to get up and go to a wall mounted station to use it. There are a few wired systems that have desktop intercom units. With wireless systems, a person can put an intercom unit anywhere they want. Most require AC power so they still need to be near an electrical outlet. Other units are battery powered so they can be carried around from location to location.
One of the challenges, however, is the possibility of interference. Since they communicate over the airwaves other wireless devices may interfere with communication. Higher quality intercoms reduce or eliminate this interference by using such technology advances such as "digital spread spectrum". Wired intercoms are inherently private, so long as the system isn't tapped by outside parties. However, Wireless intercoms are not inherently private; conversations are broadcast using publicly available frequencies which means other users with similar devices could listen in if they are within range. Most units on the market will allow conversations to be heard through other devices such as scanners, baby monitors, cordless telephones, etc. However, privacy can be provided if the audio stream is encrypted. Telex, HME and other intercom manufacturers offer encrypted wireless intercom for corporate, military and sports team customers desiring instant voice communications with privacy.
Purchase at the G.I.N. Electronics Custom Install Store