Intercom
In communication technology, a call station is a device for converting sound waves caused by the human voice into electrical signals, which are then forwarded as defined audio signals . The voice connection is either permanently switched through to a control center or control center , or the destination can be selected on the device. Intercoms are used in connection with telephone systems , intercom systems , discussion systems , interpreting systems or electro-acoustic systems (ELA). Sometimes, especially with older telephone systems, the term is used synonymously with telephone set . See more under Call station switching .
Other types of microphone units can be designed very differently. Depending on the design, a distinction is made between desk and door intercoms. Another distinction is usually made according to the intended use. There are emergency call stations , elevator stations , ELA microphone stations, delegate and chairman microphone stations. Often they are permanently installed, some desk call stations are intended for mobile use and can be connected to a communication system using a plug connection.
Common designs are wall installation housings or desktop housings with gooseneck . Sometimes the case is just a handset . There is always a built-in microphone , usually with a downstream amplifier , and often a call and / or talk button, as well as a visual display of an existing voice connection. As a rule, two-way or two-way communication is possible, in which case a loudspeaker is also available. This is not necessary with ELA microphone units. Depending on the application, various other operating and display elements and electronics are built in, for example to select the speaking partner or to digitize the signals.