The Benefits and Drawbacks of Wireless Intercom Systems: Simplified Installation and Flexibility vs. Potential Interference

Easy Installation and Flexibility

You can power up your wireless intercom system and have it operational shortly after taking it out of the box. The simple setup process and convenient use of wireless intercom systems serves as a significant advantage for users.

Potential Risks and Interference

Wireless intercom systems present certain disadvantages. The primary dangers consist of possible disturbance from other radio and electrically operated equipment. Wireless devices like cordless telephones along with wireless data networks and remote audio speakers create interference problems. Electrical devices with motors generate system noise as a side effect.

Conversations can be intercepted by other devices like scanners and baby monitors which share the same frequency. Certain wireless intercom models have been developed specifically to reduce or remove these potential risks.

Frequency Ranges and Usage

Wireless intercom systems alongside other wireless products operate within multiple frequency ranges designated by both the United States and Canada. The frequency ranges allocated for wireless intercom systems include 49MHz, FM band (200kHz - 270kHz), 900MHz, 1.6GHz, 2.4GHz, 5.8GHz and for the U.S. specifically the MURS (150MHz). Power Line Carrier units function as wireless intercoms by communicating over household wiring systems.

Wi-Fi Intercoms

The newest development in wireless intercom technology introduces Wi-Fi intercoms. Wi-Fi intercoms function better as door and gate intercom systems than traditional wireless intercoms which serve building communication. Wi-Fi intercom systems operate by sending Wi-Fi signals to buildings and these signals reach smartphones or tablets through internet transmission. This functionality enables users to communicate with guests at their entrance from any location. Users of Wi-Fi intercom systems can view visitors because numerous models feature video functionality.

Frequency-Specific Details

49MHz

Early cordless phones operated on the 49MHz frequency which continues to power baby monitors and basic wireless gadgets today. The 49MHz frequency provides a limited range of communication and does not protect conversations from being intercepted. This frequency has the highest chance of capturing electrical noise. None of today's wireless intercom systems operate on this frequency.

FM Band (200KHz - 270KHz)

FM frequency-based intercom systems are available in the marketplace. The functionality of such devices relies heavily on the presence of additional transmitting and electrical equipment in their vicinity. The systems face electrical interference and lack secure transmission capabilities which makes conversations accessible to any listener. A large number of users express unhappiness with FM wireless intercom systems. The market has largely phased out intercoms that operate on this frequency band.

900MHz

Regions like North America, Australia, and Israel utilize the 900MHz frequency band. Initial 900MHz devices operated using analog technology that permitted eavesdropping by others with devices tuned to the same frequency. The 900MHz products that came after the initial models implemented digital spread spectrum technology to divide transmission across multiple frequencies so they could protect against eavesdropping and support several communication channels within one network. These products have ceased to be commonly available.

2.4GHz

The 2.4GHz frequency operates as a global standard in regions including North America, Australia, and Israel. The 2.4GHz frequency supports only a limited number of wireless intercoms with video intercoms being the primary exception. Wi-Fi wireless data networks operating under the 802.11B/G standards utilize this frequency which creates potential interference. The majority of users encounter no problems but some users experience Wi-Fi network resets and clicking noises when using their intercom systems. Modifying the router's wireless channel may help reduce interference but spread spectrum technology in 2.4GHz devices could restrain this method's efficiency. Purchasing a 2.4GHz video intercom requires the assurance of a return policy because interference testing might be necessary.

5.8GHz

Cordless phones occupy the 5.8GHz frequency range while wireless intercoms do not function in this particular band. Devices operating in this frequency range work alongside 2.4GHz and other frequencies without creating any conflicts.

DECT 6.0 Technology

Wireless intercom systems now use DECT 6.0 technology which operates in the 1.9GHz frequency range throughout North America. This system functions like cordless phones by using encrypted DECT 6.0 technology to protect your conversations from being overheard by neighbors. Traditional wireless intercom systems operated like walkie-talkies which required push-to-talk to transmit and release-to-listen to receive but DECT intercoms enable hands-free use and allow users to call specific stations over multiple channels.

MURS (Multi-Use Radio Service) - 150MHz

The Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) uses five distinct frequencies in the 150 MHz range and represents a fresh service launch in the U.S. The service provides short-range communication capabilities which extend across several miles through the use of the VHF radio spectrum. The FCC requires strict specifications for MURS products and services despite no licensing requirements for users. The desktop MURS Multi-Mile Base Wireless Intercom represents a typical product within this product category.

Comparison with Family Radio Service (FRS)

The MURS radio service operates like the Family Radio Service (FRS) which uses the 462 and 467 MHz band but provides four times the power output. MURS technology permits users to attach bigger external antennas which increases transmission range unlike FRS that restricts antenna size. Utilizing an external antenna boosts transmitter radiated power fourfold to extend transmission distance beyond four miles. MURS units lack security features yet their lower usage frequency makes them less likely to be intercepted.

Usage in Canada

Canada does not permit the use of MURS although the 151.055 and 151.115 MHz frequencies remain unlicensed. Commercial intercom systems operating on these frequencies are available for use in Canada. IntercomsOnline provides information about license-free options for specialized requirements.

Power Line Carrier Systems

PLC intercom systems transmit communication through very low FM frequencies across standard 110-volt AC house wiring. Marketers often advertise these systems as wireless despite them not being technically wireless systems. The installation of these systems is straightforward because they become operational with just a simple connection to an electrical outlet. PLC systems experience high susceptibility to interference from multiple sources which leads to system buzzing, audio degradation and potential total system breakdown. House wiring configuration affects these system's performance because they can't communicate across different phases of the wiring.

PLC intercom systems offer low cost but experts advise against their use because they often experience interference and deliver unpredictable results. Radio Shack was the final US retailer to offer these systems before stopping their sales.

Choosing the Right Wireless Intercom System

The selection of a wireless intercom system requires understanding both your specific needs and the wireless devices already present in your home or business environment. The wireless products employed by your neighbors play a significant role in your selection. Wireless products usage comes with the possibility of experiencing interference. A vendor who provides a guaranteed return policy should be your choice so you can return the system if it fails to meet your needs. You can evaluate wireless intercom systems without any risk using this approach.