Multi-apartment video intercom: types, how to choose and connect

Intercoms are intercoms with two-way communication. Intercom sets include two blocks - a calling block, located in front of the entrance to the room, and a response block - with the ability to open the lock relay.

Installing an intercom not only provides remote control of the lock, but also increases the level of security and safety of property. When choosing one or another intercom device, you need to familiarize yourself with their varieties.

How to choose a video intercom

Buy devices from trusted manufacturers. Products from Vizit, Samsung, Eltis, Metakom, Commax have proven themselves.

Model specifications

The parameters of video intercoms in an apartment building (apartment building) affect their cost and operational efficiency. Pay attention to the following characteristics:

• screen diagonal (from 3 to 10 inches);
• color or black and white monitor;
• permission;
• number of cameras;
• lighting (needed only if the area near the entrance is poorly lit);
• additional video monitor;
• recording a conversation on a memory card;
• availability of speakerphone;
• type of control (buttons or touch panel).

Technical characteristics of some models include Wi-Fi support for viewing recorded video from a phone or laptop, or a port for connecting alarm sensors. When they are triggered, the video intercom begins recording what is happening near the entrance onto the memory card.

Video intercom for an apartment building. Photo source: amazon.com

The equipment can be wired or wireless. The first option is connected to the main device via cables, so the internal panel must be mounted next to the front door. This type of video intercom is most often installed in multi-storey buildings.

The wireless device operates using radio signals. The external structure can be placed at a distant distance from the base unit (the number of meters depends on the technical characteristics of the models). This intercom option is more suitable for cottages.

Popular intercom models

Areas of use of a comprehensive video surveillance system

The equipment is installed in apartment buildings, private properties, warehouses and enterprises.

The purpose of the video intercom

The main objectives of the device are to limit unwanted visitors, increase the safety and comfort of residents.

Features of the video intercom

During the call, the owners see the visitor’s image on the monitor and may not answer him or open the door remotely.

If you have an answering machine, you can listen to a recording of a message from a guest. The equipment saves video and photos of what is happening near the entrance to a memory card.

Using the built-in camera, you can view the staircase, exit to the street, and courtyard.

Difficulties and features of installation

It is difficult to connect a video intercom in an apartment building without experience. It is necessary not only to install the equipment, but also to lay the wires. The problem is connecting all the components according to a certain scheme. The failure of one device will disrupt the operation of the entire system.

Connecting equipment to a regular entrance intercom is difficult. First, they install a video panel, which most often does not combine with the audio system. Therefore, you will have to do the installation again and lay all the wires.

Recommendations

To protect yourself as much as possible from uninvited guests, follow these tips:

• Only let people you know into the entrance. If a person introduces himself as a government official (for example, a police officer), ask him to show his identification when he arrives at your entrance.
• Many video systems allow you to record video or take photos. If a stranger comes to you, do not open the door for him, but be sure to take a photo/video in case you contact the police.
• If possible, try to negotiate with your neighbors to install a shared video system on the floor. This will save a lot of money and improve the security of the entrance.

Multi-apartment video intercoms: direct call, digital, connection diagram, areas of use

The type of device is selected depending on the number of residents in the entrance and the degree of protection desired.

Direct call video intercoms

The device can be single- or multi-subscriber. On the panel there are buttons with the numbers of each apartment. An important advantage is the ability to initiate communication from home.

Direct call video intercom. Photo source: alibaba.com

Such equipment is usually installed in private properties or club houses with a small number of floors.

Digital modular video intercoms

The panel is equipped with 12 buttons for connecting to apartments. You need to dial the digital code and click on “Call”. But you won’t be able to initiate communication from within.

Depending on the additional built-in modules, the functionality expands, the following appears:

• viewing pictures from the camera, list of subscribers;
• communication with the concierge;
• entrance by electronic card.

For example, a Samsung apartment video intercom can be equipped with a digital concierge switchboard function. Communication between guests and hosts will be through a third party.

Connection diagram for an apartment building

It is better to install equipment at the same time for all residents, so that later you do not have to select devices and combine them.

Connecting a video intercom. Photo source: getsafeandsound.com

Installation of a video intercom in an apartment building is carried out according to the following scheme:

1. Drill holes on the inside of the entrance wall to install the calling unit and lead out the wires.
2. Make a recess in the door trim for the back of the video intercom housing.
3. Secure the electric lock and lead the power wire into the entrance.
4. Install the compositor, make openings in the ceilings between floors and stretch the cable.
5. Mark the installation location of the device on the wall in the apartment, drill a hole for the video intercom wire and stretch it to the stairwell.
6. Supply power to the call block located at the entrance door.
7. Connect the terminals to the signal cable, and it, together with the electric lock, to the calling panel.
8. Start the system, check the operation of each street intercom button.
9. Program the call block for the keys of all residents.

Only after checking the correct connection and communication of the device with each apartment can you bury the wires in the wall.

Object type

If the intercom will be used in an apartment building, then in most cases the most common option is chosen; such a device comes with a handset, and on the control panel there are only two buttons for turning it off at night and for opening the doors to the desired visitors. The most common models that are still standing in Russian entrances are Visit and Metakom.

For a private home, more expensive models are selected, to which more than one camera can be connected, since they usually need to be installed in front of the gate and at several points in the residential area. For offices and other public facilities, an entire security video surveillance system is installed around the entire perimeter, and naturally, intercoms are selected with a video monitor and memory, so that, if necessary, it is possible to immediately identify an outsider who has violated the boundaries.

What is a system for combining an apartment video intercom with a general one?

Check the compatibility of devices before purchasing, otherwise the devices will not connect to the same network.

The system consists of several components:

• combined video intercom (attached to the wall in the apartment);
• street camera (mounted at the entrance door);
• calling block (used instead of a bell).

Street and apartment devices are connected to each other according to the diagram from the attached instructions. But the combined video intercom is a modified version of the classic version. Manufacturers do not produce such designs. They are made by private owners.

Adapter selection

The equipment is used to combine intercoms located near the entrance and in the apartment. Therefore, it should fit both devices.

Choose an option with galvanic isolation or dampers that suppress interference. Such an adapter will instantly send a signal from one device to another and eliminate call interruption.

Selecting an interface module

There are two main options: MSC and MSC. When purchasing, be guided by the type of intercom.

The MSC module is suitable for coordinate-type devices, the MSC module is suitable for digital ones.

Connection diagram between an apartment intercom and an entrance intercom

To combine both devices, the audio transmission line is replaced with a video cable. A common scheme is using a socket box with low current wires. The ends need to be ringed and cleaned. Then connect the connectors, insert them into the intercom and isolate them.

Diagram for connecting a video intercom to an entrance intercom. Photo source: avigilon.com

Cables from the entrance and apartment are fixed on a common board. One end is led into a low-current shield and included in the call panel. And the other - to the wire of the common intercom, which is located in the riser of the floor.

Installation example

Operating procedure:

1. Connect the wires from the audio intercom handset and video equipment to the MSC module. There are inscriptions on it indicating the attachment points.
2. Connect power, video, audio and ground wires at the same time. They need to be twisted, soldered, clamps put on them and melted.
3. The camera near the entrance is connected to the “ground” and “video” sockets.

Installation of the MSC module is carried out in a similar way.

Connection with electric lock

There are two ways: connect the device to a subscriber unit or calling panel. It's better to use the second option. There is no need to lay additional wires.

Installation example. Photo source: becintegrated.com

You will need a separate power supply for connection because the device consumes a lot of current.

How much does an installer cost?

The installation price depends on the region, brand of equipment, and additional work. Installation with connection to a street intercom costs from 2 thousand rubles. There is usually no need to pay extra for wires and cable channels. Connecting another camera and call panel will cost from 800 rubles.

The price of a video intercom for an apartment building starts at approximately 9 thousand rubles per set and depends on the model.

Where to go to install and connect a video intercom

Contact the management company or find contacts of a specialized company in your city. Each subscriber is connected individually.

About the manufacturers

There are products from about a dozen manufacturers on sale on the Russian market.

1. Visit. Mid- and low-price segment, assortment - audio and video intercoms, single-subscriber and multi-subscriber. The cost of a simple audio kit for 1 apartment is from 4000-5000 rubles.
2. Cyfral. The same features as the Visit intercoms.
3. Metacom. In addition to audio and video intercoms, it produces contactless intercoms. The cheapest single-subscriber kit starts from 2,700 rubles.
4. Commax. An old company, started operating in 1968 in South Korea. Products are sold in more than 100 countries around the world. The assortment is about 100 models.
5. One Touch. A line of expensive video intercoms that work via the Internet. Can be controlled from a tablet or smartphone.
6. Falcon Eye. A line of several dozen video intercoms, most models have an internal unit in the form of a monitor, without a handset. Color touch display.
7. Slinex. The line of expensive premium video intercoms includes about 10 models.
8. Tantos. Several lines of simple budget audio and video intercoms.
9. Kocom. It produces audio and video intercoms in different price segments.

What is an IP video intercom and what to look for when choosing it

The device has wider functionality, Internet access and only works if there is a local network. An important advantage is the ability to send a signal to a laptop or smartphone.

When choosing, standard parameters are taken into account: protection from moisture, viewing angle of the video camera, operating temperature range, case material. Some models have echo and noise reduction and can communicate with other devices of the same brand. The IP design can also be integrated into a smart home system.

IP video intercom. Photo source: cctv-mag.eu

The equipment works in a similar way to conventional video intercoms. Guests call the desired apartment to enter, and residents use their keys. But due to the expanded functionality, you can differentiate the level of access. This option is more suitable for the office. Employees will open the main entrance door but will only be able to enter certain areas.

With or without video

One of the main indicators is the type of signal that the intercom transmits.

The device can transmit either voice only or voice with video. Video intercoms are more expensive (30-50%). There are also models that broadcast only video, without sound (video eyes).

Expensive video intercoms can not only broadcast video from an external unit to an internal one. They have functions for video recording and signal transmission to other devices (smartphone, TV, tablet).

This functionality allows you to see and communicate with the visitor, even if the user is not at home.

Which cable to choose for connection in a high-rise or cottage

For video intercoms, it is preferable to use a conductor of the ShVEV and ShVEP types. It is a sealed shell with separate lines for the lock, video signal and audio communication.

Cable for video intercom. Photo source: ssgnlbdq.com

Main characteristics: characteristic impedance 75 Ohm, thickness within 1.5 mm, copper central conductor and braid.

Security level

Intercoms control the entry of people into a certain object, so they are closely related to the opening and closing of gates and doors. During installation, several locks can be combined at once. They are electronic and can be of two types: mechanical and magnetic , the latter are more convenient to use, they are almost invisible and are characterized by silent operation.

The operating principle of the devices is based on remote door opening: when the owner of a home in which an intercom is installed answers a call on it, he presses a special button after identifying the guest. She transmits a signal to the lock and it opens the front door.

This device is especially convenient in homes where there are small children, because when they hear the bell, few of them are interested in who is behind the door and can immediately open it. If there is an intercom, they first talk to the visitor, and if he is unfamiliar to them, they do not let him in. In this case, it is better not to skimp and buy an intercom with a DVR, so that you can then view who could come in the absence of adults and with whom the children communicated.

Connecting a video intercom

Call specialists if you have no experience in installing the device. It’s better to pay than to incorrectly install a video intercom in an apartment building with your own hands.

Typical connection diagrams

Equipment is often installed using a controller. There are markings on the diagrams for specific models. It makes it easy to understand which connector to connect the components to.

Connect the call panel to the monitor, and to it - the controller, lock, key reader and power supply. This option provides access to the entrance if you have a suitable electronic key.

Typical video intercom connection diagram. Photo source: globalmarket.com

The connection diagram depends on the location of the open lock control contact: in the handset or in the calling panel. And also from the use of a power supply or lock control module.

Required equipment set

Before installing a video intercom in an apartment building, check that all devices are present, otherwise the system will not work.

Monitor

It displays the image from the camera. The image can be color or black and white depending on the model.

power unit

Without this device, the multi-apartment video intercom will not function. Choose equipment with a rechargeable battery so that work can continue during power outages.

Lock

There are two types - electromagnetic and electromechanical:

• In the first case, a magnetic field keeps the doors closed while power is applied. When you press the door open button, the voltage is temporarily relieved. But there is an important drawback - the lock stops working during a power outage. Strangers will be able to enter the entrance.
• The electromechanical design cannot be switched off. It is equipped with crossbars recessed into grooves. The lock starts working after receiving a request from the controller or control unit.

The first option is more reliable and costs less.

Video intercom calling panel

This is a basic device that provides communication between a person inside the apartment and guests on the street.

Video intercom calling panel. Photo source: koontech.com

It has a built-in camera, speaker, microphone, numeric keypad and a module for reading keys. Depending on the model, IR illumination may be present.

Connecting wires

They are necessary to connect power to the lock and the calling panel to the video intercom. Check the integrity of each cable and the tightness of the insulation.

Choose wires with braided shielding to prevent possible interference on the line.

Device connection features

When installing a video intercom in an apartment building, secure the power supply in the panel to protect it from bad weather and vandals. To improve image quality, route wires as far away from power lines as possible.

Crimping of cable lugs provides a more reliable contact connection.

Self-installation

Mount the monitor on the wall in your apartment and connect it to electricity. Hang the calling panel outside near the front door or gate. It is better to slightly deepen the device or build a canopy over it to prevent damage and moisture.

Hang the device at a height of about 1.5 m so that the video camera fully displays the visitor's face. It is better to lay the wires underground in a recess of about 20 cm in protective pipes made of steel or plastic.

Recommended installation height for the intercom calling panel. Photo source: wallsheaven.com

Connect the components of devices with a key reader to the control controller. Without it, go directly to the call panel.

Helpful installation tips

Familiarize yourself with the diagram first, even if you have already installed the device. And make sure that all the necessary components are there and fit together.

Do not install the calling panel on the entrance door or gate. They are constantly opening, so the wires can be damaged. Hang the device from the side of the lock, not the hinges.

Install a video intercom for the entrance of an apartment building with a camera with a viewing angle of at least 30-60 degrees. First install the calling panel, and then the rest of the components.

By design and principle of operation

According to the addressing method, intercoms are divided into:

1. Coordinate (coordinate matrix). To connect, you need as many wires as there are subscriber units. For example, if you need to connect 30 apartments, 30 separate wires are run from the outdoor unit. Such systems are cheaper than others, but they are more difficult to maintain. The principle of operation is the same as that of a mini-PBX.
2. Digital. To connect, 2 wires are used, from which the wiring goes to the subscribers. They cost more than coordinate ones and are easy to install. Most apartment buildings have exactly these devices. The main disadvantage is the higher likelihood of problems (call signal loss, difficulty opening doors, listening to conversations from other subscribers).
3. Wireless. They do not require a separate line - they are connected via an existing telephone cable, via Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable. The most expensive category includes a small number of models, mainly in the premium segment.

Intercoms of different models may have the following additional functions:

• acoustic signal of pressing buttons (call and/or all buttons);
• the ability to open doors with a digital code or key;
• possibility of setting individual codes.

Video intercoms in the expensive segment may have the following functionality:

• recording photos, audio or video, which is triggered by pressing the call button or when a motion sensor is triggered;
• the ability to talk with a visitor from a smartphone/tablet when the owner is away from home;
• the ability to open doors from a smartphone.

Commax

If you are in doubt about which intercom to buy, take Commax! Video intercoms from the Korean company Commax have been no less popular than Tantos video intercoms for many years. By annually improving its products, this company continues to win the trust of more and more new customers.

By purchasing video intercoms from this manufacturer, you will receive an easy-to-use device that even a child can understand. Many models include a monitor, calling panel and electric lock. An additional advantage will be the low cost.

A popular model from this manufacturer is the CDV 35A. This video intercom is equipped with a TFT LCD touch screen and has a color display. There is also a handset for talking. This device is equipped with a minimum of all necessary functions.

For a private home

Every private owner dreams of the security of his home, so he tries to protect it with a high fence and additional security equipment, among which an intercom is often used. It is often chosen with a DVR; several cameras are connected to it at once in order to cover as much of the site as possible.

The monitor can be either black and white or color. The latter transmits a colorful picture, but in the black and white version it will be clearer, so the choice of display depends entirely on the wishes of the future owner of the intercom.

For large areas, it is better to choose wireless devices; moreover, their installation is much cheaper, because you do not need to spend money on laying a cable or its aerial fasteners. The high price of the device itself quickly pays for itself, considering that it will work around the clock.

The number of calling panels depends on the need to install them near each gate and gate; you can connect several electronic locks to one device, and hang the panel only at the main entrance , while at other places entry will only be made using a special key.

Since the calling panel will be constantly in sight and in the open air, it must be sealed, vandal-proof and waterproof. In a private house, one button will be enough to make a call, and in protected private areas, the optimal solution would be to use reading plastic cards.

Technical requirements

Sound intercoms are, of course, useful, but their counterparts with a display are still more functional; they allow you not only to talk with a visitor, but also to examine him, as well as the situation near the door at a certain moment in the conversation, which increases the safety of your home. When choosing between a black and white and color screen, it is worth choosing the latter option, since recently the price for them has dropped significantly, and the difference has become insignificant.

The larger the monitor, the better the image can be viewed. Now on sale there are standard panels with diagonals: 3.5”, 4”, 5”, 7”, 8” and 10”.

In the dark, it will be difficult for the camera to transmit a clear picture if there is no light nearby, so you need to choose a model with infrared illumination, which will provide a brighter image.

The memory block significantly affects the price of the device. Models with it are expensive, so there are few of them on the market. The presence of such a block allows the intercom to automatically take photos of guests or unfamiliar visitors who are near the house. All images are stored in the device’s memory; if necessary, they can be transferred to a computer for more detailed consideration. If such a device is supplemented with motion sensors, then shooting will occur from the moment a subject appears in the field of view.

In addition to such important technical characteristics, when buying an intercom, its design is also taken into account; it is desirable that the panel with the display fits harmoniously into the interior of the corridor (where it is usually installed) and does not attract attention to itself.

The function of adjusting the sound and light indication will also be useful , if the family is sleeping at night and guests are due to arrive, then when they call the intercom, the panel will give a light signal about the call or play a muffled melody. Read more about the intercom device and technological features in this article.

For apartment

When planning to purchase an intercom for your apartment, you need to find out a few important points for yourself:

• what type of equipment for intercoms is installed at the entrance: digital or coordinate;
• ask the seller about all the nuances of the chosen model, find out about this brand of device and its manufacturer;
• find out from specialists whether the selected intercom system is suitable for the entrance system;
• Taking into account your personal budget, choose a device with or without a display, choose the installation location in the house, and select the appropriate panel size.

In addition, there are several useful functions for certain apartments, such as:

• if the apartment is large, then it will be inconvenient to use a model with a handset; it is better to choose a device with a touch screen and a control panel;
• for residents of walk-through entrances, you should purchase an option with two blocks, then they will have the opportunity to let guests in through the front and back doors of their choice;
• There are models with a TV connector; they are used for large apartments where the front door is significantly removed from the rest of the rooms; they are usually equipped with a memory card.

There are ultra-modern models that provide for the use of several memory cards; their total capacity allows you to record all visitors, even in the absence of the homeowners for a long time, with the date recorded.