Audio/video: Latest entries

The door is a pretty important feature of a building. Without it, we’d be clambering through windows to enter a place. Either that, or privacy would be virtually non-existent. We’d have people sticking their heads through our “doorways” – more like holes in the wall, though – copping a good view of whatever personal depravity we like to get up to during the lonely hours at home. So thanks goodness for doors.

But the simple act of walking through a door is not as it once was. You’ve probably guessed, thanks to the intro above and the pictures scattered around these pages, that I’m going to start writing about audio and video door entry systems. And you’d be right. These days, these entry systems are becoming more and more common, not just on commercial premises, as was once the case, but increasingly on private homes, particularly blocks of flats or terrace conversions.

So we’ve collected together some of the latest releases to keep you up to date with what is fresh on the market. Enjoy…

Nice and slim

Bitron Video UK has launched the M-inox, which it says is the smallest door entry panel in its class. It is made of tough stainless steel and is only 56mm wide.

It’s also visually appealing with clean cut, modern styling. Bitron says it is ideal for all systems prone to acts of vandalism. It can be used either horizontally, by fitting up to three rows of buttons, or vertically using an additional seven-button module. All M-inox doorphone panel versions are equipped with a protective top. They are also provided with blue LED lighting.

Reader Service No 105

X1 marks the spot

BPT Security systems has launched the X1 two-wire video entry system, designed to allow transmission of all data signals and power supply on a single non-polarised twisted pair. Signals include telephone, audio, video – black and white or colour – and controls (door-lock release, stair light, auxiliary service, call-timer, self-connection to entry panel and sequential switching between entry panels), all of which can be transferred without any loss of quality.

X1 can be used to manage up to four entrances, 100 calls and up to eight receivers activated by the same call. This can be expanded to cater for multi block sites with addition of a BPT control unit. The signal can be distributed over a number of lines, to as many as 100 receivers, using one power supply unit.

Reader Service No 106

Keeping it simple

Urmet Domus has introduced a simple but highly effective solution for when audio communication is required as part of a door entry system but where it is not possible to install cables. Domus Cell is compatible with all major mobile networks and provides GSM connection to Sinthesi door entry panels. The default programming enables users to have the system up and running within minutes and it can provide communication through analogue PABX systems, providing all the benefits of a standard telephone system, without the cost of installing fixed lines.

Reader Service No 107

Finish him

The Eclipse hands-free videophone from Videx Security is available in a carbon fibre, silver or white finish. There is a choice of models available for both the VX2200 digital system, standard video systems and the new VX2300 two-wire video system.

The units are available in both surface and flush and incorporate a colour monitor and hands-free full duplex speech for ease of use. They have the option to switch into simplex speech when required. A handset option is also available for the surface version.

Reader Service No 109

Axolute launch

BTicino has launched the Axolute range of door entry systems. The company says the range “combines cutting-edge appearance with hi-tech functionality”. It features a colour LCD display and selection of finishes, and it can be personalised to suit any interior environment. It also features hands-free duplex speech and easy on-screen function management to enable it to be simple and convenient to use. Bticino is also developing the system so that it can operate with its Home Network solution.

Reader Service No 110

Hitting the Targha

BPT’s Targha digital door entry panels have had a new stainless steel vandal resistant model added to the line.

Designed to work with the company’s 200 and 300 door entry systems, the vandal resistant panel has the ability to display up to eight pre-programmed scrolling screen messages or information text. When used as part of a System 300 installation, visitors can select the block first, then the apartment from the same keypad, suitable for large installations, as up to 256 blocks can be catered for.

Reader Service No 111

Portable door entry

Marmitek’s DoorPhone120 portable door phone system is comprised of an outside unit and a portable handset, meaning users can speak to visitors from anywhere inside or outside their home.

The system functions wirelessly. The outside unit can be operated with an adapter as well as batteries. All handsets that are connected to one doorbell are provided with an intercom function.

“When the children are doubtful about opening the door, they can always consult you via the intercom function,” the company says.

“Any handset can be used to open the doors that are provided with an electric door-opener.”

Reader Service No 112

Hearing aid

An induction loop module is now available from Videx Security for the company’s 4000 series range of door entry systems. It connects to the audio amplifier module in the door entry panel to allow callers with a hearing aid set to the ‘T’ position to hear a tenant speak.

The unit is built into a standard size 4000 Series module, which means it can be used in conjunction with most other Videx 4000 Series modules, enabling customised door entry panels to be constructed. The induction loop is also available for vandal resistant door panels.

Reader Service No 113

Going to the Ophera

The Ophera tiltable monitor from BPT Security Systems is now available with a sleek silver coloured panel.

Ophera is a colour monitor featuring a large 3.5-inch LCD screen which can be tilted, and can comply with building regulations to accommodate the needs of disabled users. It offers an intercom option, panic button, privacy button, porter call button, camera call up, lock release, stair light and aux buttons.

It forms part of BPT’s X1 and System 300 range of video and audio door entry systems.

Reader Service No 114

A date with Daitem

Latest generation Daitem gate and door entry control systems are controlled by wireless technology and operated via the convenience of a mobile handset. Designed to be totally user-friendly, they enable office and domestic occupants to screen and identify all visitors before opening and closing entry doors and gates by remote control. Illumination of pathways can also be controlled by simply pressing a button on the handset.

Daitem has also published a new brochure outlining its gate and door entry control systems. This is available calling 0870 6099922, emailing info@atral.co.uk, or visiting www.daitem.co.uk.

Reader Service No 115

Phone home

Videx Security has introduced its VK4K Video Phone Kit for its 4000 Series of door entry systems.

The VK4K supports up to four outdoor entry panels, including disability friendly features which will assist organisations in complying with the Disability Discrimination Act. Up to three additional devices, such as an extra video handset, audio handset or an extension sounder, can also be fitted in parallel to each videophone.

For ease of use, door panels have both audio and visual status signals: busy, call in progress, door opening and engaged. Additionally a voice annunciation and LCD display module can be used, with English text messages appearing on the display and spoken messages from the door panel speaker throughout the stages of the call. A time adjustable privacy facility is also included at the videophone, along with door selectable camera recall and dry contact buttons.

Reader Service No 116

Eye on the monitor

The Lynea YV monitor handset from BPT is available with colour or monochrome display, with a 4.5-inch screen for the latter and 3.5-inch for the former. It features a large button for solenoid door lock release, stair light, and all the standard controls of a door entry monitor. It also has the facility to add a further loudspeaker to turn the monitor into an intercom system and/or to add extra volume in noisy environments , ensuring the call is heard. It is supplied complete with the wall monitoring support, including the audio handset, ready for fitting alongside the monitor.

Reader Service No 117

Digital entry

BTicino has digitised its 2-wire door entry system – an enhancement the company says will ease installation, improve system flexibility and increase user friendliness. A key benefit is the use of non-polarised wiring, meaning simple installation. “Installation will not only be far quicker than eight-wire or analogue systems, but significantly faster than the traditional two-wire solution,” the company says.

Reader Service No 118