The first telephone-based intercom systems were developed in the early 1890s. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the technology was used for apartment building access. The years following 9/11 saw the apartment intercom systems transform from rudimentary communication devices to become an essential part of any building’s security infrastructure. Integration of front door access, alarms, and facial recognition systems allowed property managers to safeguard their tenants from intruders.

Wireless Intercom Systems

Fast forward to 2020; the pandemic is fueling another shift in how Americans perceive personal security. Facing an invisible intruder, apartment managers are searching for ways to secure their properties and tenants better within. Keyless entry availed by wireless intercom systems provides an excellent solution, allowing visitors and tenants to enter the building without making contact with the commonly touched surfaces. Additionally, tenants can verify the identity of the visitors through the video intercom system, eliminating the need for face-to-face interactions. Additionally, security teams can schedule automated entries for deliveries, cleaning, and maintenance crews. Here are a few do's and don’ts of installing wireless intercom systems.

Do: Consider Your Future Needs

Technology in the Internet of Things (IoT) subsector is fast evolving. As a savvy property manager, you may need to ensure that the wireless intercom system that you pick not only works for you now but also in the future. Do you wish to expand your property in the future? Will the security protocols change then? Is the system easily adaptable to novel technologies that are coming up? Flexibility for your wireless intercom systems can help future-proof your investment with easy-to-set-up upgrades.

Don’t: Install An Apartment Intercom In Noisy Environments

The speakerphone on your door intercom system can carry background noise to the receiver. The location of the intercom may affect communication between your tenants and their visitors. You should avoid placing the intercom system in areas with constant noise. If your front door faces a noisy street, you may opt for wireless intercom systems with noise-canceling features. Your tenants and their visitors may not have to yell over the background noise to communicate.

Do: Factor In The Size Of Your Property

Wireless intercom systems utilize radio waves with allotted frequency ranges. The distance between your intercom base station and the receiver modules may affect the strength and quality of the radio waves. The more distance, walls, and equipment standing between the modules in the network, the worse the quality will be.

Don’t: Buy A Cheap System

Wireless intercom systems have made themselves desirable to property managers due to their low costs of installation. You may not have to worry about extensive cabling and hardware. However, it would help if you did not compromise on quality while seeking to pinch off some pennies from the final installation costs.

Do: Get A Professional Installation

Wireless intercom systems for an apartment building are fairly easy to install. However, you should risk a botched DIY installation for something as important as your property’s security. Hiring a professional to complete the installation can help put your mind at ease about the project. Besides, you can receive ongoing support if you encounter any problems.

Apartment intercom systems have evolved quickly over the years as property managers seek to find better ways to secure their tenants and buildings. It also means ensuring a proper installation of their access control systems. For more information on wireless intercom systems, reach out to Whoo.ai.