Sometimes, the little things go unnoticed. In the grand scheme, however, these little things can make a big difference.
Take, for example, residential intercoms. Sure, they aren’t as sexy as a big plasma television with surround sound or a home network that accesses movies, photos and music at the click of a button, but they do serve a purpose and they can easily be taken for granted.
The benefit of an intercom system is its ability to provide a simple means of communication within the home and enable a homeowner to screen visitors and provide a safe living environment.
Basic 4-1-1
According to Roger Soucy, product manager for Russound, all intercom systems employ a fundamental list of components and technologies. Among that list, generally, are such features as serial data communications, analog audio distribution, digital chime tones and other amenities manufacturers include in order to differentiate its products from those of the competition.
Pluses and Minuses 4-1-1
Today’s home intercom systems offer much more than the systems of yesteryear. Many of the category’s manufacturers, which include M&S Systems, Russound and NuTone, bundle multiple services into their product lines — audio and video capabilities, for example, are popular. These added services make the system more attractive to homeowners than a plain old intercom or multiroom audio system. When combined with the full communication options, builders and their installation partners can design intercom systems that fit the exact requirements of a client. The only drawback to an intercom system is that it is much easier to install before the walls go up, which means it helps if builders plan for it during construction to ensure an efficient installation.
Installation 4-1-1
Most of the intercom systems on the market employ low-voltage power to accomplish their tasks, but there are some exceptions. Nevertheless, as Soucy explains, while there are some high-voltage products, their benefits are incremental at best. He adds that when contemplating a product like the Russound ComPoint, builders should consider that it is powered by 15-volt power supply.
Because most of the popular intercom systems employ low-voltage power, electronics integrators can install the system. This means that a homeowner can have the same professional install their home theater, home network, lighting control, security and intercom system and still have it meet code requirements.
Profits 4-1-1
Soucy says, while every system is different, Russound’s ComPoint can provide a reference point. Russound’s minimum advertised pricing (MAP) offers resellers approximately 50 points of margin.
Other manufacturers may vary their margins. In general, though, it can be said that intercom systems provide healthy profits to their resellers.
Warranties 4-1-1
On average, intercom systems are protected in much the same way other electronics components and systems are protected.
Russound and M&S Systems, for example, back their systems with two-year limited warranties. Other manufacturers offer similar warranty periods and parts and usage stipulations.
More 4-1-1
To learn about the basic parameters of residential intercom systems, visit the FAQ pages on the Web sites of NuTone and M&S Systems. M&S also provides a basic technology glossary on its site, providing an overview of the key technologies that make up an intercom system.