Same old cables. Brand new intercom system.

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June 20, 2024

Retrofitting old residential complexes with a modern 2-wire HD video intercom system is more than an upgrade. For many homeowners and renters, these systems represent a leap into the future of residential living, bringing friendly, helpful intercom functionality – even on the go.

When new apartment blocks are constructed, many feature digital video intercom systems. These fulfil the growing demands of residents for enhanced security and greater convenience from their entry systems. It’s no wonder, then, that those who live in older properties are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the poor user experience of their current outdated intercom setups.

The need for change

There are a number of important problems associated with outdated intercom systems. On their own, each of these would not, perhaps, be sufficient justification to upgrade the system; taken together however, the case for change becomes compelling.

Old intercom systems lack many modern features which have, over the years, become regarded as almost essential for modern apartment living. For example, we expect such systems to include high-definition video so we can see who is calling. Ideally, we also want to see who is calling even if we are not at home. As a result, mobile connectivity and integration with smart home devices has become part of the minimum requirements for modern intercom functionality.

Another issue – and one which becomes increasingly important as time goes by, are the maintenance costs associated with keeping old systems running. As finding replacement parts for obsolete technology becomes more challenging, so the maintenance costs rise for property managers and, ultimately, residents.

Old systems are also notoriously poor when it comes to scalability. Expanding the functionality or coverage area of an old analog intercom system can sometimes require a complete redesign and rewiring of the system.

Replacing old for new – modern intercom functionality using existing 2-wire cabling infrastructure

Many old intercom systems were based on a 2-wire copper cable system. These existing wires form the heart of the intercom infrastructure for the entire block. The great thing about modern 2-wire systems is that, although they can offer the full range of modern functionality, they still operate over the existing copper wire infrastructure within the building. As a result, retrofitting a new intercom system is therefore relatively simple and cost-effective and can be carried out with minimal disruption to residents.

Hikvision's 2-Wire HD intercom solution

If you are looking for an experienced and reliable partner to help you seamlessly upgrade an outdated intercom solution Hikvision is an obvious choice. Our years of research and development expertise are clearly apparent in our industry-leading 2-wire HD video intercom solutions which blend advanced technologies with a range of modern user-friendly features.

High-definition video and audio

Hikvision’s professional 2-wire chip technology enhances wire compatibility to deliver smooth audio and video and control signal transmission across existing cables with a very high bandwidth. Our optional 2 MP door station features wide dynamic range (WDR), works in low-illumination situations, and provides residents with a wide, ultra-HD video viewing angle for enhanced security and comfort.

Enhanced user experience

Residents may live in an older apartment block, but if it has been retrofitted with a Hikvision 2-wire intercom system, they will enjoy a great, modern, user experience. For example, the 7-inch touchscreen indoor station features touch buttons, clear indicators, and an accessible design suitable for the visually impaired. What’s more, because the digital feed can be accessed through the cloud, the system can be fully integrated with mobile devices. As a result, residents can interact with visitors remotely, and are even able to provide entry – perhaps for delivery purposes – from anywhere with an internet connection. Similarly, advanced configuration settings can be accessed either with a mobile device or an internet browser.

Streamlined and flexible installation

With a single power supply and featuring flexible wiring options such as 『daisy chain』, or 『star connection』, the Hikvision 2-wire intercom system can be simply retrofitted in a variety of different residential environments. What’s more, because the system uses existing cables, installers avoid the complexities and disruption of drilling new holes or deploying additional wiring. This can save enormous amounts of time and, inevitably, costs.

Find out more

To find out more about the future of intercom technology with Hikvision, please explore our website for more details about Hikvision’s 2-wire HD video intercom solution, or contact us directly.

Video Intercom