When new apartment blocks are constructed, many feature digital video intercom systems. These fulfil the growing demands of residents for enhanced security and greater convenience from their entry systems. It’s no wonder, then, that those who live in older properties are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the poor user experience of their current outdated intercom setups.
The need for change
There are a number of important problems associated with outdated intercom systems. On their own, each of these would not, perhaps, be sufficient justification to upgrade the system; taken together however, the case for change becomes compelling.
Old intercom systems lack many modern features which have, over the years, become regarded as almost essential for modern apartment living. For example, we expect such systems to include high-definition video so we can see who is calling. Ideally, we also want to see who is calling even if we are not at home. As a result, mobile connectivity and integration with smart home devices has become part of the minimum requirements for modern intercom functionality.
Another issue – and one which becomes increasingly important as time goes by, are the maintenance costs associated with keeping old systems running. As finding replacement parts for obsolete technology becomes more challenging, so the maintenance costs rise for property managers and, ultimately, residents.
Old systems are also notoriously poor when it comes to scalability. Expanding the functionality or coverage area of an old analog intercom system can sometimes require a complete redesign and rewiring of the system.
Replacing old for new – modern intercom functionality using existing 2-wire cabling infrastructure
Many old intercom systems were based on a 2-wire copper cable system. These existing wires form the heart of the intercom infrastructure for the entire block. The great thing about a modern 2-wire intercom system is that, although they can offer the full range of modern functionality, they still operate over the existing copper wire infrastructure within the building. As a result, an intercom system is therefore relatively simple and cost-effective and can be carried out with minimal disruption to residents.
Hikvision's 2-Wire HD intercom solution
If you are looking for an experienced and reliable partner to help you seamlessly upgrade an outdated intercom solution Hikvision is an obvious choice. Our years of research and development expertise are clearly apparent in our industry-leading 2-wire HD video intercom solutions which blend advanced technologies with a range of modern user-friendly features.