Intercom system in houses and apartments

NGÀY ĐĂNG 31/10/2025

Hoàng Phụng

In modern life, the demand for security and convenience in homes and apartment buildings has become increasingly high. The Intercom system is now an essential key to ensuring peace of mind and comfort for both residents and building management.

A smart intercom system not only helps you verify visitors and unlock doors remotely but also enhances overall safety and convenience for everyone in the building. Let’s explore how to choose and implement the right solution for private houses and apartments — from real needs to must-have features — in this article.

What is an Intercom System?

An Intercom system (short for Intercommunication System) is an internal communication system that allows the exchange of information, sound, or images between different locations within the same building, area, or facility.

In simple terms, an intercom is a device that allows people to talk directly with each other through wired or wireless connections — without needing a phone or internet connection.

Main Functions of an Intercom System

1. Internal communication:
Allows calling and communication between rooms or areas (e.g., between security, reception, and technical departments).

2. Access control:
When integrated with cameras and electronic locks, users can verify and unlock doors remotely.

3. Quick information transmission:
Used for emergency announcements, assistance calls, or instructions during urgent situations.

4. Video monitoring:
Video intercoms allow users to view and record visitors ringing the doorbell.

Types of Intercom Systems

By Transmission Technology

• Wired Intercom:
  Uses cables to transmit signals between indoor and outdoor units.
  Pros: Stable and low interference.
  Cons: Complex installation, requires cabling.

• Wireless Intercom:
  Uses radio frequencies like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to connect devices.
  Pros: Easy to install.
  Cons: Can be affected by network or signal interference.

• IP or SIP Intercom:
  Operates over LAN/Internet networks, transmitting both audio and video via IP, offering high integration capabilities.

By Functionality

• Audio Intercom:
  Audio-only communication, no video display.

• Video Intercom:
  Includes both camera and display screen for audio-visual communication.

• Integrated Intercom Systems:
  Include extra features such as remote door unlocking, facial recognition, smartphone/app connectivity, and integration with security systems.

By Installation Environment

• For private houses or villas:
  Simple systems, usually one outdoor and one indoor unit.

• For apartment buildings or multi-tenant complexes:
  Larger systems with centralized management for multiple units, floors, and entrances.

Main device types:

• Outdoor station: Installed at the entrance or lobby.

• Indoor station: Installed inside apartments or control rooms.

Roles & Benefits of Intercom Systems

Key Roles

1. Fast internal communication
Allows instant voice (and often video) communication between points within a building without needing phones or physical movement.
Example: Staff can quickly make emergency announcements or coordinate with other departments.

2. Access control & security
Verifies and manages entry at main doors or restricted areas. Can integrate with electronic locks, cameras, and other systems for enhanced security.

3. Emergency alerts & crisis management
Used to broadcast emergency notifications throughout the building (e.g., during fire or evacuation). This ensures timely communication and faster response.

4. Enhancing user experience
Residents or employees can see and verify visitors, open doors remotely, and communicate conveniently — increasing comfort and safety.

Specific Benefits

• Saves time & boosts efficiency:
  Eliminates the need for physical movement or phone calls for every communication.

• Improves safety & access control:
  Visitor verification through video and electronic locks prevents unauthorized entry.

• Enhances property value & professional image:
  A modern intercom system reflects investment in convenience and security — appealing to tenants and buyers alike.

• Easy integration & scalability:
  Many modern systems can connect to smartphones, IP networks, cameras, locks, and smart home systems.

• Supports visitor & staff management:
  Logs visit history, photos, and entry times — improving visitor tracking and building security.

Considerations When Implementing an Intercom System

• Initial cost:
  Includes equipment, cabling (for wired systems), and integration with other systems.

• Regular maintenance:
  To ensure stable performance and prevent failures.

• Power/network dependency:
  IP or wireless systems may be affected by power or internet outages.

• Choosing the right system:
  Simple systems for homes; integrated or video intercoms for larger buildings — choosing incorrectly may waste resources.

Applications of Intercom Systems in Homes & Apartments

1. Visitor reception at gates/entrances

When a guest or delivery person arrives, they can call the resident via the outdoor panel. The resident can see, hear, and verify before unlocking the door.
For example, multi-tenant video intercoms let visitors call apartments directly, while residents can answer via their smartphones.

→ Enhanced security: Residents know exactly who’s requesting entry.

In private homes or villas, the same system can act as a video doorbell combining camera + intercom.

2. Remote door unlocking via smartphone

Residents can answer calls and unlock doors even when away from home through mobile apps.
Building management can issue temporary PIN codes or QR access for guests or deliveries.

3. Visitor & delivery management

The system records access logs, images, or videos — useful for monitoring and incident review.
Temporary access can be granted to maintenance staff or delivery personnel.

4. Integration with security, CCTV & access control

Modern intercoms support IP/PoE connections and integrate with CCTV, elevators, garage doors, and more — forming a complete building security ecosystem.
Example: entrance panels + intercom + cameras + electronic locks all connected to the central building management system.

5. Enhancing resident experience & property value

Residents enjoy greater comfort and peace of mind with remote door access and visitor verification — even while away.
For property developers or building managers, upgrading to a smart intercom solution improves operational efficiency and reduces staffing needs at lobbies or gates.