Frequently Asked Questions

What is VoIP?

Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) is an emerging technology that allows telephone calls, faxes, or overhead paging to be transported over an existing IP data network topology.  Traditionally, voice and data were carried over separate networks optimized to suit the differing characteristics of voice and data traffic. With advances in technology, it is now possible to carry voice and data over the same networks while still catering for the different characteristics required by voice and data. This provides for the addition of new voice communications products without the need for installing new cabling.

The VoIP network could be:

  • A Local Area Network
  • A Wide Area Network
  • A Corporate Intranet
  • Or any combination of the above
Why are VoIP Solutions less costly to install than other communications alternatives?

IP is the predominate networking protocol used globally. It presents a huge opportunity to dispense with separate voice and data networks and use IP technology for voice traffic as well as data. As voice and data network technologies merge, massive infrastructure cost savings can be made as the need to provide separate networks for voice and data can be eliminated.

VoIP uses connection-less, or packet, switching during a conversation. There is no telling what path each packet might take to get to its destination. Once transmitted these packets are reassembled into their original order at the remote locations. Today’s high bandwidth routers and network components provide ample capacity to reliably transmit voice and data over the same backbone.

This is why Valcom is manufacturing a variety of IP Solutions products which provide users with a host of added communications benefits without needing expensive new cabling to operate.

What makes our IP Solutions products so unique?

Our IP solutions are revolutionising the industry. Valcom IP products serve a wide array of customer communication needs. They are robust in performance and install quicker than traditional wired methods. Our design is cost effective and numerous models are available to support telephones, paging speakers, intercom stations and telecom interconnect.

What kind of things can VoIP do for my facility?

You can add a paging system or remote paging microphones in a new building and/or area. Door intercom and interior stations can be installed to secure and make a facility safer. Telephone costs can be reduced by eliminating dedicated leased lines. Information / emergency telephone handset can provide clear communications with security personnel.

At Valcom we feel that IP solutions can provide all facilities with new alternatives to add functionality, safety, lower installation costs and increase efficiency.

How do I get the Perfect PA System?

Just follow these 4 steps!

Step 1- Site Survey

Take into account the following to ensure the best specification for your customers:

  • Area Coverage for each zone
  • Background noise levels in each zone
  • Types and heights of ceilings
  • Area layouts – are there aisles, racking systems etc
  • Type of phone system
  • Does your customer own any existing cabling to be used?

Step 2 – Select a central pre-amp

As the central control unit behind the solution, pre-amps integrate Valcom with the phone system. Once areas and noise levels have been checked with your customer, you can then select your required pre-amp taking into account the following:

  • How many separate zones are required?>
  • Is background music required in any or all of the zones?
  • Do you require timed tones for breaks?
  • Is night ringing required from selected speakers?
  • Does the customer wish to control a door entry via the phone system?

Step 3 – Select speakers

Speakers connect to your chosen CPA via two pairs of cat5/6 or CW1308 cable. No impedance balancing is required as each speaker has its own amplifier and volume control. Speakers can be added without affecting other speakers on the network – up to the capacities listed against each CPA.

  • Speakers are generally for indoor use – consider the right look to suit the environment, a variety of designs are available.
  • Horns are tougher than speakers. Ideal for outdoor locations and industrial areas
  • Talkback is most suited in quieter areas where people can chat at normal volume
  • Do speakers need to be waterproof?

Step 4 – Select power supply

The amount of power required for a paging system depends on the type and quantity of CPA and speakers/horns to be used. Built in power is often included in the CPA, so an additional supply may not be needed. Each Valcom product lists what power is provided or needed. To calculate the power supply required simply:

  • Add up all the units
  • Select the power supply that satisfies the units required
  • If total units exceed power from a single power supply, just add more supplies to meet overall requirement.
Do I require a V-9940 or V-9970 Extension Access Controller?

Use the V-9940 Extension Access Controller when no Dial tone is returned to the person making the page and use the V-9970 Extension Access Controller when a dial tone is returned to the person making the page.

How do I add additional power supplies?

Simply add to a separate power pair, make sure you do not have 2 power supplies on the same power pair.

Can I connect the Valcom system to a trunk port on the in-house telephone system?

Yes with any of the 2000 range of controllers or a V-9937 controller.

What cable do I wire the speakers with?

Standard 1308 BT cable or Cat 5/6 Cable.

Can you wire speakers in 'series'?

This image illustrates how to wire speakers in series. If you have any questions or require further information please get in touch.

Speakers wired in series