Solution for units / apartments or even homes where cables are too expensive to replace or install
One of the most expensive components of an intercom system is the cabling and costs of installation. Cabling often includes power distribution, network devices such as switches and routers, and internal ducting including patch panels and data racks.
Where cables run under driveways or inside limited wall cavities you are faced with expensive underground drilling or excavation and conduit on internal and external walls.
Another option is to use external networking to provide the connections between the access control intercom at the door or gate and the units / apartments. With high-speed broadband and NBN we have a ready built network, but only with the right intercom / access control solution and knowledgeable suppliers and installers.
Requirements for a no cable system
All intercom systems require a network connection between components. In a traditional cabled system this is provided through an internal network. A no cable system connects through the internet using mobile broadband and NBN connections. The apartment / unit needs at least a smart phone or NBN connection to allow for a receiving unit to receive incoming calls. Note that for users who do not have a Smart Phone or internet we can provide a service where they receive a direct phone call. The call is audio only and has a monthly fee to cover call costs.
Call routing
Standard cabled systems route calls through internal addressing schemes. A call to apartment 101 will be routed to the receiving device addressed as apartment 101. While it is possible to connect cabled intercom devices over the internet using VPN technology the solution is cumbersome in that each apartment and the door station require a VPN to be established and associated monitoring to ensure the system operation.
A simpler method is to route calls via a cloud service. This method uses standard internet connections allowing quick and easy installation (especially if using Wi-Fi in apartments) and allows monitoring via the cloud server. Some systems also enable remote access through the cloud server to the devices for trouble shooting, upgrades, and system changes providing a level of management and support.
Internet connection
A no cable system requires an internet connection to route calls between devices. The devices are classified as door station / access control and receiving units. Door station / access control devices are the intercom unit at the gate or door and also can include access control readers and keypads that do not make intercom calls but allow access. Receiving units include touch screen monitors, handsets, and Smart Phone App.
Door station / access control connection can be via an industrial grade 4G / 5G router or cabled to a local NBN point. The latter is suitable for facilities where there is internet available for the entry area for building management or management office etc. We can supply a managed industrial 4G router with our solution where internet is not available. The router has dual SIM slots for failover in the event there is a SIM failure or issues with the provider network (recommend different providers for failover SIM). The router is rated for outdoor use and is monitored through an online management platform.
Receiving unit connection can be via Wi-Fi in the apartment or direct cabled to the apartment NBN router. Where NBN does not exist a 4G modem will provide access to the internet. Smart Phones provide internet access through mobile broadband or Wi-Fi and can interact with the system through an App. There is also the option for standard audio only phone calls at a monthly fee.
Why Strata managers and Body Corporates embrace no cable systems
Intercom system replacement in strata managed facilities involves spreading the cost of the system against all the property owners. Where individual apartments / units may be owned by investors or tenants there can be resistance to added costs of any kind let alone a significant cost for a new intercom / access control system. Unfortunately it is an all in situation where the majority decide the costs on all owners.
A no cable solution removes the cabling costs, gives each owner the choice of equipment for their own property (or just the Smart Phone App), leaving just the shared cost for the door entry equipment. There are ongoing costs for mobile access, but this cost is broadband only and can be minimal depending on usage.
Benefits of No Cable Intercom / Access Control
Building managers, Strata Managers, Body Corporates all benefit by choosing a No Cable solution:
The no cable solution gives each individual apartment a choice of receiving unit(s) which they can purchase at their cost allowing choice based on budget or features. All apartments can vote to choose from a range of door options based on features. The individual owner costs are reduced on the cost of a cabled system and based on the choice of receiving unit. All apartments will at minimum have 4 Smart App accounts to receive calls and remotely unlock doors, with or without a separate receiving unit in the apartment.
The no cable system is managed by the property manager through an online portal allowing them to add and remove tenants, adjust access control for contractors, and manage the system.
Installation and management
The system has a cloud server that is configured with the information on the facility including buildings, doors, apartments and users. An email address is required for each App user so they can be sent the App invitation. Configuration of the system is completed before delivery.
An electrician* can install the door / gate intercoms / access control with support from Active Online.
For apartments using Wi-Fi there is the option to self install reducing costs or the electrician can assist. Where the apartment will have wall mounted monitors or handsets the electrician can assist at the apartment cost.
*We have a representative in Melbourne actively supplying and installing our systems. Please ask if you are looking for assistance in Melbourne.
Our industrial 4G router is fully managed and monitored for performance. The cloud server shows current state of devices in the intercom / access control network and some systems also can be upgraded and accessed remotely through the cloud server.
Plug and Play – the system is plug and play in that once it is connected to the internet the system is fully functioning as designed. Residents can view the camera(s) remotely via the App or touch screen monitor and calls are received to the apartment receiving unit(s).
