Intercom Systems

Doorphones in many different variants

When buying a doorphone, there are several considerations you should make before making your choice.

It is important to think about your needs and desires so you end up with a doorphone that suits you and your lifestyle.

With many newer doorphones, you can see and talk to people before you let them in. This provides extra security and control over who gets access to the building.

There are many different types of doorphones to choose from. Some have video function, others only have sound while some can cooperate with phones, alarm systems, and much more.

It is important to find one that fits your needs and budget, as there are many different variants.

Many doorphones can be integrated with other security systems. This can include alarms, access control, video on the phone, and much more.

These integrations can provide more comprehensive security solutions or greater control. Therefore, it can be a good idea to investigate the needs as well as the specifications of the individual doorphones.

5 Considerations before buying a doorphone

There are many different options and needs that doorphones can meet.

Therefore, it is important to find out what need you have so that you can find the right doorphone for you.

Below you can find 6 considerations that can be good to make before you choose your doorphone.

#1 - Basic functions for doorphones

A typical doorphone has a microphone/phone and one or more speakers. These make it possible to talk to people outside without opening the door from home, the apartment, or workplace.

Many newer models also have a camera so you can see the person ringing the doorbell.

Doorphones can be wireless or wired. Wireless models are often easier to install, while models with a cable are often more reliable.

You can also get doorphones with remote control. This allows you to control the system with an app on your smartphone.

#2 - Types of doorphones

There are different types of doorphones, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

The most common types include analog, digital, and IP-based solutions.

In the table below, you can find advantages and disadvantages for various doorphones.

So there are different options depending on which needs you want to meet.

#3 - Size and appearance of doorphones

The size of doorphones varies depending on the model, features, and type (sound or video).

Overall, doorphones are designed to be practical and aesthetically adapted to their environment, making them relatively compact and discreet, especially for homes and smaller buildings.

Size is constantly evolving, and it therefore depends on the individual doorphone.

You can often find the specific size of the doorphone on the product page.

#4 - General range for wireless doorphones

The range of a wireless doorphone depends on several factors.

This includes, among other things, the model, the signal used (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or RF), and the physical obstacles between the doorphone and the receiver (e.g., walls or metal objects).

General ranges:

• Wi-Fi-based doorphones: These depend on your home network's Wi-Fi range, which can typically be between 30-50 meters indoors and up to 100 meters outdoors under optimal conditions. Obstacles such as walls, furniture, or other electronic devices can reduce the range.
• Radio frequency (RF) based systems: These wireless systems using RF signals often have a range of 100-200 meters outdoors in open areas. Indoors, this range can be reduced to around 30-50 meters due to obstacles.
• Bluetooth doorphones: Bluetooth has a shorter range, typically up to 10-30 meters, which can be limited depending on the environment.

Factors affecting range:

• Building materials: Concrete walls, metal, and thick materials can significantly reduce signal strength.
• Interference: Other electronic devices, such as routers, microwaves, or cordless phones, can interfere with the signal.
• Antenna and signal enhancers: Some wireless doorphones come with external antennas or signal enhancers that can increase range.

If your doorphone is connected via Wi-Fi, you can expand coverage by using Wi-Fi extenders.

You can often find the range for the individual doorphone on the product page.

#5 - Integration of doorphones with other systems

Integration with other systems makes doorphones more efficient and practical. It can enhance the security and comfort of your home or workplace.

Some doorphones can be integrated with access control systems.

This allows doors and gates to be opened using a code, a card, or a mobile app.

The system can among other things save information about who comes and goes. This increases security and allows you to control access to the location.

Some systems also offer remote access so you can unlock from another location. This can be particularly useful for businesses and larger buildings.

Another option is doorphones combined with video surveillance. This can give you more control over your home or workplace.

You can see who is at the door before you open. Many models can also record video to later see who has been there.

This is particularly useful if you want to keep an eye on who visits your address.

Many systems offer HD cameras and night video features for better visibility.

In addition, some doorphones can integrate with your alarm system, which can enhance security.

Some doorphones can cooperate with alarm systems, so the alarm system is activated if the doorphone detects unwanted activity at the address.

This could happen if someone tries to break into the doorphone or an unidentified person steps onto the property.

Installation of doorphones

When installing a doorphone, it is important to prepare properly.

This includes planning the location and correctly connecting the system.

Below you will find a general guide for mounting and connecting your doorphone. There may be another guide for your specific model that you should follow.

Guide for preparation and planning of installation on doorphones:

1. Choose the best place for your doorphone where both the control panel and speaker are easily accessible and at eye level.
2. Ensure that there is access to power and network connection at the chosen location.
3. Go through the installation manual to get a clear understanding of the necessary tools and materials (e.g., drill, screws, plugs, wires, and possibly a ladder).
4. Check the building's structure to avoid drilling into pipes or cables.
5. Make a sketch of the system, and mark where holes should be drilled.

Guide for mounting and connecting doorphones:

1. Start by drilling holes for screws at the place where the doorphone will be mounted.
2. Choose the right plugs for the wall type (e.g., drywall, concrete, wood) and secure the holder with screws. Place the doorphone in the holder.
3. Thread the necessary wires through the wall and connect them to the doorphone.
   This may include power cables, network cables, and other wires depending on the system.
4. Check that all wire connections are correctly and securely connected. Then connect the power cable to a socket to supply the system with power.
5. Turn on the system and test all functions to ensure it works correctly. Adjust the volume and other settings for optimal performance if necessary.

There may be different installation guides depending on which doorphone is being referred to.

Therefore, follow the installation guide that fits your model. This is often included with the product.

Maintenance and troubleshooting of doorphones

To keep your doorphone in top shape, it is important to perform regular maintenance and be aware of common faults.

Guide for regular maintenance of doorphones:

1. Clean the exterior of the doorphone with a damp cloth to keep it free of dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the device's surface.
2. Regularly check wires and connections for signs of wear or damage. Ensure that all cables are intact and functioning properly.
3. Lubricate moving parts, such as buttons and handles, with silicone spray to ensure smooth operation.
4. Keep speakers and microphones free from dust and dirt, as this can significantly improve sound quality.
5. Schedule an annual professional inspection to ensure that all components are functioning properly. A technician can detect and resolve small issues before they become larger and cause system failures.

Guide for troubleshooting and solutions of doorphones:

1. Check the power supply. If the doorphone is not producing any sound, start by checking the power supply. Ensure that all plugs are properly connected, and that the power is not turned off.
2. Weak or unclear sound. This may be due to dirt in the microphone or speaker. Carefully clean the microphone and speaker with a soft brush. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to replace the microphone or speaker.
3. Issues with buttons. If the buttons do not respond, they may be worn out or have dirt behind them. Clean the buttons thoroughly or consider replacing them if they still do not function.
4. Display problems. If the display is not functioning correctly, check the connections behind the panel. A loose connection may be the cause of the problem and should be secured to restore functionality.