Hard-wired Intercom Systems
This option can require extensive work to install and with some buildings a hard-wired system may simply be out of the question. Running all the necessary cabling in a brick building for example would be very painful to say the least. Not to say that it can’t be done in a lot of existing buildings and the benefits may be worth spending the extra money to have one installed.
Hard-wired Intercom Systems are considered to be more reliable than wireless systems and provide superior signal strength and clarity. If you are looking at a large scale Intercom system with many stations and perhaps adding Video Monitoring, a hard-wired system would be a far better investment.
Once the system is installed it is virtually a set and forget system unlike a wireless system relying on battery power. The choices of where to mount the units is easier as there are no ‘dead spots’ or signal loss with the hard wired systems and the power supply can be taken to where the unit is mounted, eliminating the need to position the unit near a wall socket.
If you are in the process of building and an Intercom/Security system appeals to you then now is the time to have a hard-wired system fitted. The system can be tailored to fit in with motion detectors and lights, smoke detectors and your phone line with limited drama before the wall sheeting goes on. Leave it too late and the installation may cost you many times over what the Intercom System cost you in the first place!
In summary, if you are looking for an easy do-it-yourself installation go for a wireless system. Just be aware of their limitations and be sure to change batteries regularly if required. If you have a timber home or office, or are having one built it will be worth your while to at least investigate a hard-wired system due to their set-and-forget convenience and remember that both types of systems can be incorporated into most other security features you may have.