Intercom Systems: Frequently Asked Questions

Posted by Fahrenheit 451 on Jun 25, 2010 in Security | 0 comments

What is an Intercom Door Entry System?



Intercom door entry systems are a state-of-the-art security system installed to provide you and your guests with an increased level of security.

The system operates with your existing telephone. Your guest simply dials the code number next to your name on the entry panel directory and your telephone will ring. When answered you will be in communication with your guest. To unlock the door, dial “9″ from your telephone. To refuse entry, simply hang up.

How does this system work?



The telephone entry is simply a speed-dialer. It is connected to its own phone line. When a guest dials your code number, the system converts that into a regular telephone call to your telephone number. (The guest never sees your telephone number.) When you press “9″ the system activates a relay that opens the door and ends the phone call.

What happens if I am on the phone?

If you are on the phone, the system will ring busy, the same as any other outside telephone call. To solve this problem, you can order call-waiting for a small monthly fee from the local telephone company.



I use my telephone line a lot when I am on my computer. What then?

The system is no different than any other outside telephone call. It will ring busy if you are on your telephone line. If you have call-waiting, your computer will generally hang-up unless the call-waiting feature was deactivated prior to the computer phone call. In order to receive guests, you may have to order a second phone line or subscribe to a cable internet service.

What happens if my answering machine is on?

If you are not home and your answering machine answers, your guest will be able to leave a message to let you know that they called. Some answering machines use the same tone as number “9″. If this happens the door will open at the beep. If you see this happening, contact the building manager right away so that the problem can be fixed.

Why do I hear a “beep tone” in my ear?

The system is limited to short calls from 30 to 45 seconds long. About 10 seconds before the system cuts you off, it will beep to warn you that your time is almost up. If you do get cut off, your guest can simply call you back.



What are the security advantages of this system?

This system incorporates many security advantages not found in conventional intercom systems.

• On a regular apartment intercom, all of the buttons can be pushed. When too many residents answer the door, the system can become overloaded and open the door. The telephone entry system limits the calls to one (1) suite at a time.
• Residents must answer their phones before they can open the door. Since the telephone rings the same as a regular phone call, there is no way to know if it is the front door or a regular call.


My friend has the same system, but they get two (2) short rings when the call is from the front door.

The type of system that gives 2 short rings is actually wired into the buildings telephone wires. While it operates very similar, it is not the same. Your system actually uses an outside telephone line to generate a regular telephone call. Because of the hollow sound of the guests in the lobby, you will get to know if the call is from the lobby very quickly.