HARDWARE & SECURITY
Next-gen intercoms :
Why video is here to stay
» IN TODAY ’ S IMAGE-DRIVEN ERA , video has become the norm , particularly as most people now own a smartphone – giving them high resolution cameras and infinite video content at their fingertips . Video is a fast-growing trend that has only been accelerated by the pandemic , as many reach for a video call to replace faceto-face interactions or audio calls . In the housing sector , too , intercom systems are continuing to evolve in this area , as part of an ongoing digital shift .
In fact , the global market for video intercoms shows huge potential – its value is projected to reach an impressive US $ 41.07 billion by 2025 - that ’ s roughly £ 30 billion . The more advanced video intercoms are wireless too , bringing an even greater array of benefits to installers , property managers and residents alike . So , why have these devices become such a game-changer for the housing industry and what more can we expect from this fast-growing market ?
Added appeal
A key benefit of video intercoms is that they can help tenants feel more safe and secure in their home . Unlike a two-way audio feed , video is only one-way , which means residents can see who ’ s at the door without being seen themselves . Pinhole cameras , for example , mean they can identify who is at the front door without having to open it . For busy residents , this feature could be a valuable time-saver too – whether it ’ s to accept a delivery , let in a friend or open the door for a neighbour who has forgotten their key – having a videoenabled intercom means they can screen their visitor calls quickly and easily .
Beyond safety , video intercom systems bring added consumer appeal . The latest door entry technology is ideal for residents with higher expectations of their accommodation , namely those who are looking for more digitalised building services – whether it ’ s to better suit their digital mindset , or lifestyle . Developed with a sleek , flush-fit design , Intratone ’ s SC-02 intercom , for example , features an integrated , invisible pinhole camera and a hands-free fob reader to meet both security and aesthetic needs .
Wireless wonders
With digitalisation going from strength to strength , more installers are choosing to adopt GSM technology to set their video-enabled access control offer apart from the competition . GSM , or the Global System for Mobile Communications , isn ’ t new in itself – it ’ s the technology behind mobile phone networks that allows users to make and receive calls , as both voice and video streams , to other devices . As a completely wireless and digital system , GSM makes plastic handsets and traditional wired intercoms obsolete , which means door entry devices minimise cabling , for a hassle-free and more sustainable installation .
Implementing GSM capabilities into access control systems , like video intercoms , also enables easier property entry management for residents , as they can quickly and seamlessly grant access to visitors via their mobile phones or tablets – even if they ’ re not at home . GSM-based wireless systems also enhance security and improve accessibility for less mobile residents . From a housing and property manager point of view , wireless access control devices bring wider benefits , too . Mechanical keys are no longer needed as secure key fobs are used by residents . Plus , the intercom is connected to an online remote management system , making it easier for housing providers to oversee all access to their buildings without needing to visit a site . This helps streamline day-today administration tasks , such as making changes to key fobs , flat numbers and tenant information .
Join the digital revolution
Video intercoms have the potential to add real value to a property – and its management . With the latest GSMbased wireless access control devices , no cabling or physical handsets are required , which makes them ideal for fast retrofit
installations . Plus , installers do not need to enter individual properties to fit receivers or handsets , which is safer for everyone . Thanks to minimal hardware and innovative plug-and-play software , ongoing maintenance is also reduced , saving potentially time-consuming site visits later to diagnose or fix issues .
An optimistic outlook
After an uncertain year , when both tenants and housing providers have come to appreciate the value of communication more than ever , video and wireless intercoms have become an integral part of many installers ’ toolkits . As the digital drive continues its upward trajectory , these types of access control systems will become increasingly important for tenants and housing managers – helping to boost property security , streamline workflows and reduce inefficiencies , among other benefits . With advances in video and wireless technology , it ’ s never been a better time for installers to expand their portfolio – and potentially their business .
Find out more about Intratone ’ s video and wireless intercom solutions at www . intratone . uk . com
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SEP / OCT 2021
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