Intercom vs. Entryphone — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 3, 2024
Intercoms are communication systems used within buildings or complexes for general or emergency messaging, while entryphones are specifically designed for visitor entry control, usually featuring voice communication and sometimes video.
Difference Between Intercom and Entryphone
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Intercom systems facilitate communication across different rooms or areas within a building or between separate buildings. These systems can be used for general announcements or conversations. On the other hand, entryphones, also known as door phones, are installed at the entrance of a building and enable residents to communicate directly with visitors before granting them entry.
While intercoms can be part of a broader security or communications system within residential, commercial, or institutional buildings, providing a versatile range of uses from general announcements to detailed two-way conversations, entryphones are focused primarily on security. They allow occupants to verify a visitor's identity through voice and, increasingly, video before unlocking the door.
Intercom systems may be wired or wireless and can include features like multiple channels for different departments or units, integration with public address systems, and sometimes video capabilities for added security. In contrast, entryphones are typically associated with a specific entry point and include features like a call button, microphone, speaker, and often a camera for visual verification.
The installation of intercom systems is generally more complex and expansive, covering multiple areas within a building or even across buildings. This setup makes it ideal for large buildings, schools, hospitals, and office complexes. Entryphones, however, are installed at points of entry and are essential components of home and apartment security systems, focusing on controlling access rather than broad communication.
Intercom systems can also integrate with other building management systems for enhanced functionality, including emergency broadcasts or seamless communication between different parts of a large complex. Entryphones are simpler, usually standalone systems that are part of an access control system, focusing on the safety and security of the entry points they monitor.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Use
Broad communication within and between buildings.
Security at building entry points.
Functionality
Multi-channel, may include video, integrates with PA systems.
Voice and often video communication, entry control.
Installation
Complex, can be extensive across locations.
Typically at specific entry points, simpler setup.
Users
Used in residential, commercial, educational institutions.
Mostly used in residential settings.
Integration
Can integrate with other building management systems.
Usually part of access control systems.
Compare with Definitions
Intercom
Useful for general and emergency communications.
The office intercom system facilitates daily communications and emergency alerts.
Entryphone
May feature video capability for enhanced security.
Their entryphone system includes a camera to see visitors before granting access.
Intercom
Can include features like multiple channels and video communication.
Their intercom system allows for calling specific apartments within the complex.
Entryphone
Integral to access control in residential buildings.
The entryphone system ensures that only authorized visitors can enter the building.
Intercom
A communication system used to connect different areas within a building or across buildings.
The school uses an intercom to announce closures and emergencies.
Entryphone
Commonly includes a microphone, speaker, and call button.
The entryphone at the apartment allows for clear two-way communication with visitors.
Intercom
Varies in complexity from basic audio to sophisticated networked systems.
The intercom at the gated community includes video features for added security.
Entryphone
A specialized intercom system used at entry points for security purposes.
She used the entryphone to verify the identity of the delivery person before buzzing them in.
Intercom
Often integrated with public address systems.
Announcements made over the intercom are heard throughout the entire hospital.
Entryphone
Focused on controlling entry rather than broad communication.
Entryphones provide a secure way to manage who enters the premises.
Intercom
An intercom ("intercommunication device") or interphone is a stand-alone voice communications system for use within a building or small collection of buildings, functioning independently of the public telephone network. Intercoms are generally mounted permanently in buildings and vehicles.
Entryphone
An intercom system which enables someone, without opening the door, to converse with the person who has rung the doorbell.
Intercom
An electronic intercommunication system, as between two rooms.
Intercom
An electronic communication system, especially one between rooms in a building.
Emergency intercom
Talk on the intercom
Intercom
(ambitransitive) To communicate (with) by intercom.
Intercom
A communication system linking different rooms within a building or ship etc
Common Curiosities
What features do modern intercoms have?
Modern intercoms may include wireless operation, video capabilities, and integration with other building management systems.
Are entryphones part of the intercom system?
Entryphones can be part of an intercom system but are specifically designed for secure entry communication.
Can intercom systems be used for security?
Yes, many intercom systems have security features like video surveillance and can integrate with broader security systems.
What is the main difference between an intercom and an entryphone?
Intercoms are used for broad communication within a building or complex, while entryphones are specifically for visitor communication and access control at entry points.
How do entryphones enhance building security?
By allowing occupants to communicate with and visually confirm the identity of visitors before allowing access.
What should I consider when choosing an intercom system?
Consider the size of the area to be covered, the integration capabilities with other systems, and specific needs like emergency communication or general announcements.
Can I install an entryphone in a house?
Yes, entryphones can be installed in individual houses to enhance security and manage access.
Is an entryphone necessary for all types of buildings?
While not necessary for all buildings, entryphones are crucial for residential complexes and buildings concerned with secure access.
How do I maintain an intercom or entryphone system?
Regular maintenance includes checking all components for functionality, ensuring software updates are applied, and occasionally testing the system for communication clarity.
How do video entryphones work?
Video entryphones include a camera to provide visual identification of visitors, adding a layer of security by allowing visual confirmation before entry is granted.
Can intercoms communicate with external devices like smartphones?
Some advanced intercom systems can connect to smartphones, allowing remote communication and control.
What advantages do digital intercom systems offer over analog?
Digital systems provide clearer audio, better reliability, enhanced security features, and easier integration with digital devices and systems.
Are there wireless options for intercoms and entryphones?
Yes, there are wireless systems available for both intercoms and entryphones, offering easier installation and flexibility in usage.
How does an entryphone connect to other security features?
Entryphones often integrate with electronic locks and may connect to surveillance cameras or alarm systems for enhanced security.
What is the cost difference between installing an intercom and an entryphone?
Costs can vary widely; intercom systems are generally more expensive due to their complexity, while entryphones focus on a specific function and may be less costly.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
