An increasing number of residential and office buildings are replacing analog intercom systems with network-based IP door stations connected to mobile devices, reports Bird Home Automation GmbH/DoorBird.
Mobile devices in door communication
The integration of mobile devices into door communication facilitates everyday life in a variety of ways.
Users are sent an app notification and informed on their mobile devices as soon as the doorbell is rung in order to speak with visitors or open the door, whether they are at home or out and about.
Family and friends can be let into the home or delivery persons can be asked to leave deliveries in a specific location or give them to a neighbour.
Thanks to two freely configurable bi-stable switching relays, two doors or gates can be controlled via an app. Time windows for individual PIN codes are too easy to create using the app, which makes everyday life easier.
People with reduced mobility can also safely and conveniently communicate with visitors, for example, from their couch, wheelchair or bed, and open doors and gates with the app if necessary.
Increased security thanks to an IP
Compared to analog door communication systems, the integration of mobile devices offers decisive security-related added value.
Residents have much more control over what happens outside their doorstep. Break-ins, for example, can be prevented: IP video door intercom systems make it possible to simulate that somebody is at home.
After all, breaks-ins usually begin by simply checking if someone is present.
If someone rings the doorbell, the user is sent a push notification on their smartphone and can then answer accordingly, which is usually more than enough to scare off an intruder.
Even if the doorbell isn’t rung, the built-in motion detector recognises movements in the door area or on the property and automatically communicates with the connected smartphone.
Residents can then see on their phone screen who’s moving around outside the door and also talk directly with this person.
An IP door intercom system thus replaces an alarm system and prevents break-ins before they happen.
Variety of integration options
Thanks to the open API interface, DoorBird door intercom systems can be integrated into third-party building and home automation systems.
Users can combine smart home applications from various manufacturers as they wish and do not have to commit to one brand.
More than 60 integration partners are already part of the DoorBird network, including KNX, Loxone, Fibaro and Bang&Olufsen, for instance.
DoorBird is also compatible with common smart locks such as Yale Linus, Nuki and kisi. And last but not least, it’s possible to call SIP telephones such as AVM FRITZ!Fon from the door intercom system.
Requirements in terms of technology and security
For building and home automation systems and other smart home products, IP-based video intercom systems offer a wide range of possibilities to integrate audio, video and other functions via the SIP and API interface.
The live image can, for example, be accessed using either an h264 stream via RTSP or an MJPEG stream.
The secure transmission of data is also essential for an IP door intercom system.
Security risks can arise if, for instance, security concepts are incorrectly implemented, which is why all data is transmitted in encrypted form with the DoorBird systems.
The Bundesverband IT-Mittelstand e.V. (Federal Association of IT SMEs) has tested the software and the app from the Berlin-based manufacturer and certified them with the ‘Software Made in Germany’ and ‘Software Hosted in Germany’ quality seals.
Among other things, it was also confirmed by a third party that the software data is hosted in a data centre in Germany which is certified in accordance with ISO 27001.
All data is processed in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Additional security with the firewall
DoorBird was the first in the industry to release a user-friendly solution that can also be used to protect the network of door communication systems: The DoorBird Internet Firewall A1051 is available worldwide.
The easy-to-install firewall increases security for all networks in which DoorBird products are used, both inside and outside.
Thanks to this product, the Berlin-based company has again achieved another USP in the field of smart IP video communication.
D31 Door Intercom System
The D31TDH and D31TDV models set new standards in door communication – ideal for apartment buildings and commercial properties with up to 1,000 units.
With their integrated RFID and QR code reader, a virtual keypad, Bluetooth and an innovative 4D motion sensor, the models offer maximum flexibility and security.
Another highlight is the Sony Starvis image sensor with Full HD.
A company logo for the phone directory, concierge call or individual background: Both devices also impress with a seven-inch touch display module that can be reliably operated even when wet and can be easily replaced if necessary – a noticeable relief for installers and owners.
Thanks to the new 4D motion sensor technology and full remote configurability via app and web browser, the D31x series enables user-friendly operation and convenience in everyday life.
The door intercom system of tomorrow
In contrast to IP door intercom systems, the performance of analog systems can be very limited and is no longer sufficient for many users.
IP-based door intercom systems such as DoorBird open up completely new possibilities to communicate with visitors and remotely control home, apartment and office doors.
The seamless integration into existing building and home automation systems is a decisive advantage and gives customers a great deal of design flexibility.
Various app functions make life easier and have become an indispensable part of everyday life.
The app itself is continually being developed in order to meet the latest security standards – and go above and beyond the legal standards.
New practical features are also being added on a regular basis, thereby ensuring IP technology remains fit for the future in the area of telecommunication.
Demonstrating the power of innovation
The benefits associated with using IP door intercom systems, especially when it comes to integrating smartphones and tablets, is demonstrated by Bird Home Automation GmbH.
Access control systems, indoor stations and accessories are developed and built at the company headquarters and production facilities in Berlin.
High-quality IP door intercom systems made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel are its main focus.
DoorBird unites timeless design with innovative IP technology in door communication.
DoorBird stands for the combination of exclusive design with innovative IP technology in the door communication sector. For more information, visit: www.doorbird.com