The COVID-19 virus came out of the blue. It forced us to exercise particular caution and keep a distance in ordinary everyday situations. Currently, people are working on reducing the impact of COVID-19 in their environment and adapting the way of communication to the prevailing restrictions.
Free, unlicensed, long-distance communication is more often associated with the use of two-way systems. A number of hospitals, industrial plants, construction companies, production teams, and even the catering industry use two-way radio systems as their primary communication system alongside telephones or even paging systems. Walkie-talkies can provide a basic communication system for whole teams.
That said, in many cases communication needs can be better met by full duplex intercom systems. Intercoms operate on different principles than other radio systems because they provide comprehensive duplex communication, rather than half duplex, as is the case with walkie-talkies. Put simply, it is the difference between being able to speak and listen at the same time, and being able to only speak or listen at a given moment. In some cases, having a full duplex channel can significantly impact the level of communication and understanding within the team.
What distinguishes the best intercom systems can be described in three points:
- No base station
The latest intercom systems do not require a large and heavy base station, which requires a connection to a constant power supply. Any arbitrary transceiver may be configured as master or slave.
- No limits in the number of devices per channel
Manufacturers usually offer ready-made intercom sets with a limited number of devices per specific communication channel. They cannot be expanded, so the team has a predetermined maximum number of users, which is often rather small, e.g., 4 to 8 intercoms + 1 base station. It is worth choosing systems that do not have such limitations or the maximum number of devices per channel is much larger. For comparison, Axiwi systems have a limit of as much as 250 intercoms per channel!
- Diversity
Intercom systems sold commercially allow two-way communication in full duplex mode from 2 to 10 users talking to each other at the same time – while the rest (usually an unlimited number of people) remain listening with the possibility of joining the full duplex on an exchange basis. They operate on unlicensed European or world frequencies. Charging is possible in bulk or individually via Micro USB. Each system has a unique set of distinguishing features tailored to specific user requirements.
A/v teams need devices with a stable connection, easy to transport and with the possibility of connecting to other systems. For this reason, it’s worth taking a look at the FreeCom wireless intercom system from Okayo. Due to application of the 863 MHz ~ 865 MHz frequency band in 4GFSK digital modulation, users can rest assured that nothing will interfere with their transmission. The devices are light and compact, and come with a wide range of transport cases. FreeCom is equipped with an extra 3.5 mm Aux-in jack socket, which enables the transmission of an additional (external) audio source. The stream may be given priority or overlap with the signal from the microphone. The power supply of the intercom definitely merits attention; here, is interchangeable. We can use any AA alkaline batteries or Ni-MH AA rechargeable batteries, which ensure a very long operation time of the device on one set. Due to the wide range of accessories, this system is recommended to industrial plants, catering and sports industries.
Axiwi AT-350, recognized all over Europe, will work well both for sports referees on the pitch and for production hall staff. The handy and very light transmitting and receiving device offers user over 300 meters of line of sight range. Thanks to compliance with the IP54 standard, the AT-350 is resistant to dust and water, which can occur both in open areas and in a warehouse setting. The sound quality is top notch. It is ideally suited for distance training, offering 8 different channels that do not interfere with each other.
For the most demanding crews working in difficult conditions, where what counts is a long range, a greater number of talking users and a higher level of protection, the Korean manufacturer Maytel offers an advanced two-way system Grand Multicom 2.4G. It allows up to 10 users to talk freely in full duplex. The standard line of sight range is over 500 meters. The robust and shock-resistant intercom housing has IP67 tightness class. A total of three versions of software for this system will prove useful when greater range is required or when the signal breaks through many physical obstacles. Grand Multicom 2.4G is also dedicated to companies and agencies in the security industry, as it has been equipped with the possibility of encrypting access to the channel with a special PIN code.
The benefits of wireless intercoms include faster, clearer and more natural conversations, hands-free operation and greater productivity. On top of that, intercoms in digital technology often offer better sound quality than two-way radios. The technologies used are not susceptible to crackling or other disturbances. High-quality audio means employees hear more clearly and avoid misunderstandings.
The area of team communication is the easiest to update and enhance with new technologies. The implementation of two-way communication systems in companies enables social distancing, safer work, alleviates communication challenges and, most importantly, significantly improves team performance across many areas.