Video intercoms are electronic devices built at the entrance to an apartment or house for additional security of residents. A distinctive feature of the devices is the presence of a display and feedback.
There are a lot of varieties of this type of equipment, and even an experienced buyer is sometimes difficult to understand them. So before buying a video intercom, you should familiarize yourself with all types, types, selection criteria, installation methods, as well as the rating of the highest quality models with a detailed description of their characteristics.
Structure
A video intercom is not only a monitor and a calling panel. Its structure includes several more important components, which are listed below.
Accessories:
- Monitor - with its help, the owner can see people outside, while not leaving the door;
- Call panel - with the help of this device, the guest contacts the owner of the property, it is installed outside in front of the door or in front of the gate;
- Electromagnetic or electromechanical locks - preventing unwanted guests from getting inside;
- Controller - a small rectangular device, which is located inside the calling panel, it stores the codes of electronic keys;
- Button - installed inside the yard or apartment in order to open the door;
- The power supply is the heart of any device that converts AC voltage to DC voltage;
- Cable and fasteners are special elements for the preparation and the process of laying video intercom wires.
The presence of each of these components is the key to a successful purchase. Each part of an electronic device plays an important role in its functioning.
Kinds
Views regarding the type of system:
- Autonomous or distributed is a system that is located on several video servers. It is used in cases where video cameras that transmit images to residents of a residential facility are located in different places and the network infrastructure cannot receive all traffic in one server.Intercoms with such a system are cheaper, they are easy to connect, and they have high reliability, but they transmit video of very low quality, and also have only one-way communication and low scalability, that is, the ability to cope with high loads.
- IP is a digital identifier, thanks to which the lock can be controlled remotely using a mobile application. In addition to ease of use, we can note the wide functionality, high video resolution, high scalability and support for a large number of cameras. Among the disadvantages of this system are the high price, complicated setup and the risk of being hacked by hackers.
- Hybrid is a combination of reliability, ease of installation of a stand-alone system and two-way communication of an IP system. The call panel belongs to the first system, and the signal passes in the same way as the second one - through the Internet.
Views relative to the castle:
- An electromagnetic lock is a lock that consists of two parts: the lock body and the anchor, which is a metal plate of the same size as the body. With such a lock, you can not be afraid of breaking in the traditional way, but the first one requires a constant supply of electricity. Otherwise, the lock will not work.
- Electromechanical lock - outwardly similar to a regular lock, but inside it there is a special device, thanks to which you can get inside the room not only with a conventional key, but also with an electronic one.
Types by the presence or absence of a tube:
- With tube;
- "Hands Free" system or touch control.
The presence of a handset is not an unconditional criterion that the intercom does not have two-way communication.This device only helps the owner of the house or apartment to hear the guest better.
Kinds about picture color:
- Black and white - such video intercoms do a better job of transmitting images at night, and are also cheaper;
- Colored - colored electrical appliances of this type create a full-fledged picture in the daytime, and their feature is a wider screen than black and white models.
Types of video intercoms, based on their control:
- Push-buttons are the traditional form of intercoms of this type, however, over time, the buttons can stick if you do not wipe them from dust.
- Touch - a new type that is gaining popularity due to increased protection against dust and water.
Thanks to the main types of video intercoms listed above, the buyer will be able to quickly understand what kind of relative component of the device he will need in the future.
Criterias of choice
In order not to make mistakes when choosing, you need to know what to look for before purchasing a video intercom.
Criterias of choice:
- The presence of instructions - no self-respecting manufacturer will release electrical goods without instructions. If the mentioned selection criterion is missing, then the item is either used or counterfeit.
- Functionality - intercoms with a display and a camera can have a wide variety of functions: from backlighting to the ability to control the viewing angle of external cameras. One of the most significant are the presence of fixing sound and video, support for memory cards and a motion sensor. The minimum function that should be in every product of this type is support for a memory card.
- Camera resolution - its resolution must be high in order to recognize the guest's face.The minimum resolution is 700 lines, and the best is over 1000 lines.
- Sound quality - the sound should be clear and minimally distort the voice, and also adjustable.
- Video recording - the recording function is very popular among devices of this type, as it allows the owners of an apartment or house to capture people who approached the camera installed at the entrance.
- Motion Sensor - This feature works in conjunction with auto-recording. When an unwanted guest tries to enter either the entrance, or the apartment, or the house, the camera captures the movement and instantly turns on the video recording function. Subsequently, the video is saved to the memory card.
- The lock - whatever the lock - electromechanical or electromagnetic - it must have a permanent connection to the power source, since, having lost it, the lock, in the first case, partially becomes unusable, and in the second case - completely.
- Maintainability - any electronics breaks down sooner or later, so before buying, you need to clarify the compatibility of spare parts for equipment from one manufacturer with spare parts from another.
- Infrared illumination - conventional illumination cannot capture an image in low light conditions, while infrared captures an image even in complete darkness. In addition, it is invisible to people, but it is perfectly recognized by security cameras.
- Place of purchase - many buyers, having studied the types and selection criteria, ask themselves the question “Where to buy such electronics?”, And then decide to order online, but this step is very risky.According to buyers, it is best to buy intercoms when visiting the store directly, as this will make it possible to check the quality of the material, the presence of all elements for connection and the absence of deformed parts. If you order electrical goods, for example, from China using the AliExpress online store, then you should approach the purchase process as carefully as possible. The product must come in a whole box and with instructions inside.
By following these basic selection tips, it is easy for the consumer to understand which device is better to buy and which one to postpone. The best option is considered if the product meets all the listed points, but the last of them is optional.
How to install a video intercom by yourself
How to install an intercom with a camera and two-way communication at home without breaking the devices? The acquisition of the latter is not a cheap pleasure, and calling the installer will cause another expense. For this reason, some buyers solve this issue with their own hands and with the help of step-by-step instructions and a wire diagram that a reliable manufacturer includes in the kit.
The main thing to observe is safety measures when working with electrical appliances: turn off the electricity and do not install the device in conditions of even the slightest humidity.
Rating by type
Autonomous
NOVIcam WHITE MAGIC 4 HD (ver. 4800)
The model has a screen diagonal of 10 cm, the length of the structure is 16.9 cm, and the width is 11.8 cm. Touch control is also provided, which protects the video intercom from damage due to dust or water. The minimum operating temperature is -10 °C, and the maximum is +50 °C, and the images are in color.
How much does NOVIcam WHITE MAGIC 4 HD (ver.4800)? Only 7,800 rubles, which, in comparison with other intercoms for image transmission, is cheap.
NOVIcam WHITE MAGIC 4 HD (ver. 4800)
Advantages:
- Availability of an answering machine;
- Compatibility with panels from other manufacturers;
- Touch control;
- Stylish design;
- Universal connection;
- With recording function;
- Two-way communication;
- The presence of an audible alarm;
- Do not disturb function;
- With connection to the entrance intercom;
- Great memory;
- Warranty - 3 years.
Flaws:
- The complexity of the connection;
- Small screen.
CTV CTV-M1701MD
The device has a rather large screen diagonal - 17.8 cm. The ratio of length and width is 11.7x20.5 cm. Push-button control, so small parts must be wiped regularly. The maximum temperature at which the video intercom will continue to perform its functions is +50°C. All images and videos are in color.
The cost is 8,000 rubles.
CTV CTV-M1701MD
Advantages:
- Big screen;
- Touch control;
- Warranty - 1 year;
- Motion detection support;
- Availability of an answering machine;
- Compatibility with access intercoms;
- Ability to connect 2 additional cameras;
- Three color options - white, gray, black;
- Support for memory cards;
- High resolution images.
Flaws:
NOVIcam NIGHT FREEDOM 7 HD (ver.4611)
The intercom for video communication of the NIGHT FREEDOM collection under the number 4611 has the following dimensions - 22.6x15.1x2.3 cm. The minimum operating temperature in the room where the gadget is installed is -10°C, and the maximum is +50°C. All images and videos are in color.
The average price is 12,800 rubles.
NOVIcam NIGHT FREEDOM 7 HD (ver.4611)
Advantages:
- Full touch control;
- Large screen size;
- Answering machine;
- Image recording function;
- Supports 2 cameras;
- High quality video;
- Motion Sensor;
- Universal food;
- Attractive appearance.
Flaws:
- Complicated installation.
hybrid
Tantos Jolly HD
Tantos Jolli is perfect for both a private home and multi-storey buildings with many separate apartments. The diagonal is 25.4 cm, and the ratio of length and width is 30x20 cm. Works up to +40°C. It is a colored species.
For the price it is expensive and costs about 40,000 rubles.
Tantos Jolly HD
Advantages:
- Easy care;
- Touch control;
- Plug-in WiFi module;
- There are wired and wireless models;
- Motion detector;
- Answering machine;
- 16 call melodies;
- Built-in power supply.
Flaws:
- Memory card is not included.
NOVIcam DARK MAGIC 7C (ver.4595)
The popularity of the models of this company is due to the Diagonal - 17.8 cm, and the ratio of length and width - 25x20 cm. Works from -10°C to +40°C. Refers to the color type of devices.
The cost is 10,000 rubles.
NOVIcam DARK MAGIC 7C (ver.4595)
Advantages:
- Stylish interface;
- With recording function;
- Touch screen;
- Availability of voice mail;
- With built-in MSC;
- Button illumination;
- Universal food;
- Adapted for access intercoms;
- Simple connection.
Flaws:
- Button illumination cannot be turned off.
CTV CTV-DP2101
CTV is considered one of the best intercom manufacturers. The diagonal is 17.8 cm, and the length and width of the electronic device is 26x15 cm. It works from -30°C to +50°C indoors. The type of video intercom in relation to the color of the image is color.
For the price, this model cannot be attributed to the budget one, since its cost starts from 17,500 rubles.
CTV CTV-DP2101
Advantages:
- Stylish look;
- The presence of a motion sensor;
- Adjusting the brightness of the display and sound;
- High image resolution;
- Increased viewing angle of the camera - 120 degrees;
- Voice mail;
- Photo and video recording;
- Operates at -30°C;
- Automatically start recording when an alarm occurs.
Flaws:
- The duration of the conversation is 2 minutes.
IP models
Tantos Marilyn HD
Tantos Marilyn is one of Tantos' most popular models. The diagonal of the monitor is 17.8 cm, and the ratio of length and width is 22x15 cm. It works from 0°C to +40°C. Refers to the color type.
The cost is 22,000 rubles.
Tantos Marilyn HD
Advantages:
- Remote access function;
- High screen resolution;
- Durability of work;
- Touch screen;
- Built-in Wi-Fi module;
- AHD format;
- With memory function;
- Warranty - 1 year.
Flaws:
Tantos Mia kit
The Mia model has a diagonal length of 17.8 cm, and a length-to-width ratio of 20.5x12.8 cm. It continues to function from -40°C to +55°C. Color display.
The cost is 10,000 rubles.
Tantos Mia kit
Advantages:
- Compactness;
- Simple connection;
- High quality video;
- Remote control of the lock;
- Volume and brightness adjustment;
- Built-in power supply;
- You can connect up to 5 monitors;
- Waterproof coating.
Flaws:
- No answering machine;
- There is no motion sensor.
HDcom S-711-IP
Color video intercom with a diagonal of 17.8 cm, and the ratio of length and width -22.5x15 cm. Operating temperature from 0 to +50°C.
Price - 15,500 rubles.
HDcom S-711-IP
Advantages:
- WiFi connection;
- The presence of backlight;
- Motion sensor;
- Remote control of the electric lock;
- Good image quality;
- Attractive appearance;
- Availability of a mobile application;
- Increased protection against dust and moisture.
Flaws:
Conclusion
Here answers were given to questions - what are the varieties, how to choose and which of the firms is the best.Also in the review of the best models, recommendations were given on the choice of equipment of this type. It is also worth noting that there are no inexpensive ones on the list of the best ones - only goods of medium and high price categories; and there are also no novelties, because the latter do not have enough consumer reviews, so it is difficult to give an objective assessment of novelties of this type.