Intercom Systems

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Intercom Systems

The Intercom, intercommunication device, intercommunicator, or interphone, is described as "a stand-alone voice communications system for use within a building or campus or within a small coverage area when used portably." Modern intercom systems like Riedel's Bolero are key in connecting everything from public address, walkie-talkies, telephones, entire facilities, and more. Developed originally for internal communication in large buildings and factories, Intercom Systems today take many forms;

  • Wired: A system that uses attached cables to transmit signals.
  • Wireless: A system using radio signals or another wireless technology.
  • IP-based: A system utilizing internet protocol to transmit signals.
  • Analog: A system using analog signals to transmit voice.
  • Digital: A system that uses digital signals to transmit voice and data.

History
 Intercoms in Broadcast and Live Event Production evolved during the early days of Radio. They used a system of hand signals and hand-held signs to communicate during live broadcasts, but growing production space and noise made it obsolete. The first generation of TV production intercom systems was engineered from early telephone technology. Telco equipment like Operator Headsets, Switchboards, and patch cables were combined to create crewmember "partyline" communication systems. Surprisingly, despite the industry's tremendous post-WWII technological progress, 2 and 4-party system intercom technology is still used today.

Wireless Mobility
 Some of the earliest industry intercom innovators were the concert halls of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Concert Venues were growing in size and volume and needed more mobility and flexibility. Communication between the director, crew, and camera operators had been a challenge since the early days, so intercom technology adapted. Wireless Intercom Systems revolutionized the industry with flexibility and mobility, and emerging brands like Hollyland make sure they remain vital to Live Event production today.

Evolution
 The transition from analog to digital intercoms marked a significant turning point. Analog intercom systems allow reliable and clear communication over distance. The next tech jumps, analog to digital and then to Wireless Digital Intercom systems, garnered improved audio quality, helped avoid interference, and opened the doors for intercoms to integrate with other forms of digital communication. Versatile Digital Intercom Systems like the Clear-Com FreeSpeak II allow up to 65 - 90 beltpacks on a single system!

Intercom over IP
 The future for broadcast intercom technology demands enhanced mobility, deeper AI integration for voice recognition, and cloud-based scalability. IP-based systems like the Studio Technologies Model 348 are scalable without a major hardware change as IP can interface with existing network infrastructure combining analog wired and digital wireless partyline systems seamlessly!

A Helping Hand
 Markertek Sales Engineers are ready to help you; we have the answers to your questions about Intercom System Technology. We represent Classic Brands like Clear-Com, RTS Intercoms, Bosch, and Telex Communications, plus other great intercom solutions from Hollyland, Riedel, and Studio Technologies; the list goes on! Not sure where to start? Reach out! Markertek knows Intercom Systems, and we know how to assist you in finding the perfect fit for your application!