The Next Generation Of Videx GSM Intercoms

The GSM PRO intercoms are available in kit form or as part of the popular 4000 Series modular door entry system for single call button applications up to 50 apartments all with the facility to divert to three additional numbers if the first is busy or unanswered.

Steve Natton, Special Projects Manager at Videx UK, said: “We’re excited to introduce our new GSM system as it’s the next generation of Videx GSM that provides users with much greater security and freedom. The intercom enables people to answer calls to their front door or gate from their mobile phone or land line so they never have to miss that important visitor and are made aware of who has visited even when they are not there. The systems provide spoken call progress information so that the visitor is informed how the call is progressing. Four call progress LEDs also offer the visitor a visual indication of the call’s status.”

Programming is carried out via SMS messaging or using the micro USB connection and specially developed PC software. The intercoms also include an exit button input, auxiliary inputs and outputs and a dry contact relay. Kits are also supplied with a surface or flush housing, antenna and 2A power supply unit.

Steve added: “An exciting new feature to GSM PRO is the integrated proximity access control (for up to 1000 users), administrators can remotely manage their access control user fobs and cards, eliminating the need for the engineer to visit site to enrol, modify or delete users. The reader is concealed behind the call button name plate window meaning the door panel is no larger than the previous version that doesn’t carry this feature and, importantly, is half the length of previous proximity access door panels. Programming options are by text or via the PC software and an optional desk mount proximity reader is also available to enrol large numbers of users quickly. In addition to the 1000 user proximity access control, there is also a 1000 user dial to open access control where users can dial the intercom number to release a door or gate without being charged for the call.”

Other key features of the GSM intercom include an event log that is maintained within the entry panel. This will log events such as who is being called and when, who’s opened the door or gate and many other functions. The operation voltage is also wider than the previous version – it is now 12-24V AC or DC and the bespoke PC software within the intercom includes many features to simplify the installation and programming process.

Videx Expands Presence in Housing Sector with North Tyneside Council Partnership

Videx has expanded its presence in the housing market by winning a three year contract with North Tyneside Council.

North Tyneside Council provides a range of accommodation across the region to meet the differing needs of the local community. The Council wanted to refurbish 16 sheltered housing schemes with better suited door entry systems and provide new systems to a further 10 new builds. These schemes ranged in size from a new build development comprising of 8 bungalows to a 54 bed extra care scheme. The number of properties in total that required access control additions or modifications was 1,000.

Videx, working with Goldshield Securus, has provided door entry systems that offer flexible access control that meets both the changing needs of the residents and also the operational aspects of the staffing arrangements.

Steve Natton, Projects Manager at Videx, said: “The requirement was clear – the Council wanted an easy way for residents to report issues such as anti-social behaviour, general maintenance faults and any other non-emergency related issue that did not require a call through their warden call system. With the Videx IP based door entry system, tenants have been provided with a remote IP help line through to a dedicated team at North Tyneside Council. By using the door entry handset the tenant can place a call through to the Council which is handled by an operator on a PC based concierge. The operator views the call on the screen and can call the resident back over the IP connection. This call has no cost associated to it as it utilises the authority intranet and also provides inclusion for all tenants living within their schemes whether they have a telephone line or not. Another main benefit of this feature is that it also relieves the strain on the Warden Call system freeing up time for emergency calls.”

A full access control and CCTV system with IP remote monitoring covers the external perimeter, controlled access doors, lobby area and an additional camera is set up in the Scheme Manager’s office. The controlled access door cameras are made available on the residents’ communal IRS TV system allowing them to validate the visitor and the office camera can be switched on to also broadcast on to the TV system to allow the residents to view the Scheme Manager during morning calls. This feature was a specific request by the client to provide the residents with a visual presence if they wish during the call process. Perimeter intruder alarm detection was also provided with remote monitoring which interfaced with the CCTV and provided a complete security package.

Steve added: “What’s particularly reassuring for the Council is that our door entry systems come with a lifelong guarantee of support so if the client has any issues with the system or needs to modify it to meet the changing needs of residents, they can. That is one of the most unique aspects of the Videx service – lifelong support – and one of the reasons why we are able to grow our client base in the housing market.”

Videx Wins University of Leeds Residential Development Contract

Videx was chosen to provide an audio door entry system, complete with a concierge facility, to a significant new residential development for students attending the University of Leeds.

The large-scale development consists of 525 Bedrooms across four main blocks and it was vital that each apartment had secure door entry as the safety of the students was paramount.

Steve Natton, Projects Manager at Videx, said: “Installing a secure but user friendly door entry system presented a number of challenges both from a logistical and operational point of view. The development required a total of 15 digital style entrance panels and 525 audio phones along with a desktop concierge phone located in the reception area which had to have full communication to each student bedroom.”

Steve continued: “Using our leading VX2200 system, we worked closely with out installation partner and offered a high level of support that ensured the project ran smoothly across each stage – specification, design and commissioning. All of the client’s requirements were met and their objectives achieved with the new door entry installation.”