Guide to Wireless Intercoms

Improve workplace communication and security with commercial wireless intercoms
By Rebecca Turley

Regardless of your workplace environment, commercial wireless intercoms can prove to be an important method of communication between you and your employees at any given time.

Home offices, small office environments, large offices, manufacturing settings or construction sites can all benefit from the convenience and versatility offered by wireless intercoms. No wires mean a quick, inexpensive set-up without the need to dig trenches, run conduit and fish wire.

You may want to consider a wireless intercom system for your business if communication and security have become an issue. Some questions to consider when choosing a wireless intercom system for your business include:

1. What is the wireless intercom system's operating range?

2. Do I need to consider a weatherproof wireless intercom system for outdoor use?

3. How many wireless intercom units do I need?

4. Are there workplace conditions (i.e., concrete walls and floors) or equipment that could produce interference?

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consider different power options for your wireless intercom system Commercial wireless intercom systems can operate using either a power outlet or batteries. Battery-operated units offer a true, wire-free intercom system, yet will at some point require replacement batteries. Commercial wireless intercom systems that utilize a power cord require a nearby outlet for operation.

I recommend: GadgetShack.com sells a portable, wireless intercom system which operates using 4 AA batteries. This unit has a transmission range of up to 1,000 feet and a secure, 900 MHZ radio link. In addition, A/C adaptors may be used if battery operation is not desired. Another option is the MURS 4-mile range intercom, which is operated using A/C adaptors and has an impressive transmission range of up to 4 miles. Other features include 5 channels and 38 sub-channels for effective communication and the ability to add as many base units as desired.

Decide on mounting options for your wireless intercom You can place many wireless intercoms can either on a table or desk, or they can be wall-mounted. Some commercial wireless intercom systems are even sold as flush-mounted units, which give the appearance of a wired, installed unit.

I recommend: Home Security Store carries the RIFMS2 - Reporter Wireless Flush Mount Intercom Kit which is flush-mounted against the wall. This system, which is battery operated and fully digital, boasts a range of 1,000 feet, high-quality sound and secure connections.

Choose a weatherproof, wireless intercom for outdoor applications Setting up a wireless intercom system at the front door or reception area provides an added measure of security, as it allows you to control the number of people that can enter your workplace.

I recommend: Improvements carries the Wireless Doorbell Plus Intercom System which is battery-operated and weatherproof. Additional outdoor bells or intercom units can be used in conjunction with this device. Take security one step further with SmartHome’s Video Doorphone System. This wireless door phone intercom system enables you to view and talk to visitors without opening the door. When a visitor arrives and presses the button on the door unit, the monitor screens turns on and a tone alerts you to their arrival. You can converse with your visitor or unlock the door and allow them to gain access using the electric door strike.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

Choose a wireless business intercom system that has a longer transmission range than what you need. The longer range will better deal with the obstacles and environments encountered in a commercial setting.
Make sure the transmission range and the audio quality are acceptable prior to mounting your wireless business intercom system.

FEATURED LISTINGS