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Residents in older buildings still need modern communication and all the other benefits new indoor stations offer: but issues with installing or replacing network cabling in retrofit projects can make upgrading difficult. Let’s explore how Wi-Fi-enabled indoor stations can help you offer retrofits a range of benefits without that hassle!
Installing modern apartment intercom systems: the cabling dilemma
Indoor stations do more than just answer the door nowadays. They are indispensable tools in modern apartment intercom systems – providing residents with cutting-edge features that enhance security and improve living standards – but that also require IP connectivity.Commonly, ethernet cabling is used – the installer of the indoor station must hardwire the unit to an ethernet connection. Plus they need to bring the power to the unit. This can be done via the same ethernet cable (PoE - Power over Ethernet) or via a separate power cable.
Whilst this isn’t an issue if you’re working with a modern apartment building, a large percentage of residential developments are in so-called ‘retrofit’ projects: older buildings that have outdated cabling unsuited to modern units. Changing cabling is expensive, disruptive to residents, and in some cases (such as in protected historical buildings) not even possible.
Simplifying retrofits with a Wi-Fi-enabled indoor station
The solution is relatively simple! Use an indoor station that can be connected to Wi-Fi, thus eliminating the need for extensive rewiring or 2wire - IP converters, and making the installation process faster, more cost-effective, and less intrusive.A Wi-Fi-enabled indoor station can be connected to the network without additional infrastructure: you need only a power cable, and a Wi-Fi network – commonly the home Wi-Fi.
Even end users can connect to their Wi-Fi directly from the unit - meaning property managers don’t need to go to the site and change the settings every time there are new residents in the apartment or if they change their Wi-Fi password. But, if you prefer and the project requires – make sure you can also restrict access to the Wi-Fi settings for more safety.
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Enhancing user experience with modern technology
For tenants and property managers alike, a Wi-Fi-enabled indoor station provides a seamless experience. These systems offer high-definition video calling, which improves the security and convenience of visitor management. The clear image quality allows residents to see exactly who is at the door, reducing security concerns.In addition to video communication, many Wi-Fi-enabled indoor units come with touchscreen interfaces and intuitive controls.
This makes it easy for users to use advanced features IP indoor stations offer – such as managing incoming calls or video messages left by guests, controlling home automation (if the unit can integrate easily with home automation platforms) and even monitoring their home surroundings via the IP intercom’s camera or an external IP camera.
Cost-effective solutions for building owners
One of the most attractive aspects of Wi-Fi-enabled indoor stations is the cost savings they offer to building owners. By eliminating the need for extensive rewiring and reducing labor costs, retrofitting an existing apartment building becomes more affordable. The installation process is also quicker and less disruptive, meaning tenants experience minimal downtime and inconveniences.Improved flexibility for installations
Wi-Fi connectivity gives indoor stations much more flexibility in terms of placement. With no reliance on specific wiring points, indoor stations can be installed wherever it makes the most sense for residents and property managers: whether that’s positioning the device near the entrance, on a desktop stand, or somewhere else.In retrofit projects, this flexibility allows for creative, adaptive placements that might not have been possible with wired systems. Older buildings, especially those with complex or historic layouts, often have limitations that Wi-Fi-enabled devices can bypass.
Future-proofing apartment buildings
Even in retrofit projects, futureproofing is a crucial consideration. With IP devices, systems can easily receive regular software updates, ensuring the technology stays up-to-date without requiring hardware changes. This keeps even older buildings in line with rapidly changing standards and developments in smart technology and home automation, making them more attractive to potential tenants who expect modern amenities.Wi-Fi-enabled indoor stations provide the same forward-looking capability and advanced features hard-wired IP units offer – they simply have a different, more convenient, method of connectivity.
Case in point: the 2N Indoor View Wi-Fi
The 2N Indoor View Wi-Fi is an excellent example of this.It’s an almost identical variant of the original 2N Indoor View (all the same great features) but with one difference: the Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows it to be specifically targeted to the demands of those working with older buildings. It also offers an easier solution to smaller projects that only want a few indoor stations and thus don’t want or need to change the entire cabling system.
The advanced features of the 2N Indoor View and thus its Wi-Fi-enabled variant include:
- A 7″ touchscreen for streaming HD video
- Full-screen video calls & video messages
- Sleek, award-winning design
- Privacy prioritized: it runs on the 2N OS which keeps residents' conversations secure and private—no eavesdropping, no recordings.
- Video surveillance via external IP cameras stationed about the property
- DoorViewer: a feature unique to the 2N Indoor View that supports the stream of 3rd party cameras to act as spyholes. This means that once the doorbell button at the apartment door is pressed, a live video preview will show the person at the door.
- Smart home integration: we partner with leading home automation brands
- Remote configuration and management via the My2N Management Platform
In conclusion…
Retrofitting older buildings comes with unique challenges, but Wi-Fi-enabled units such as the 2N Indoor View Wi-Fi offer a solution that simplifies installation, enhances flexibility, and delivers a modern user experience.
The 2N Indoor View Wi-Fi is designed to work as part of an entire residential solution that’s perfect for retrofit projects. If you’re interested in ensuring a smooth transition to updated technology and transforming a retrofit project into a smart, secure, and desirable place to live - all while minimizing costs and disruptions – get in touch with our team!
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