IP Audio Vs 100V Line: A Comprehensive FAQ for the Uninitiated
This FAQ is designed to answer common questions about installing IP audio systems, helping you understand the technology, its benefits, differences from traditional 100v line PA systems, and how it can be applied in various environments from schools and universities to retail malls and commercial premises.
What is an IP Audio System?
An IP audio system is a modern public address (PA) and paging system that transmits audio data over your existing computer network using an IP (Internet Protocol) network, such as a LAN, WAN, or the internet. Instead of using a dedicated audio amplifier and separate speaker cabling like traditional 100v PA systems, each IP speaker, microphone, or intercom is a network device that connects directly to the network.
How does IP Audio Installation differ from a Traditional Analog (100V) System?
This is one of the biggest differences. Traditional 100V line systems require a central amplifier and dedicated speaker cabling to power each speaker. This can be complex, time-consuming, and costly, especially when adding new speakers or changing zones.
IP audio systems, in contrast, use your standard IT network infrastructure. Each speaker connects to a network switch with a single Ethernet cable. Thanks to Power over Ethernet (PoE), this one cable delivers both power and data, eliminating the need for separate electrical wiring for each speaker. Installation is as simple as plugging a speaker into an available network port, making it much faster and more flexible.
Instead of having one central amplifier, each speaker has its own small amplifier built in so it is a truly distributed sound system.
What about the Audio Quality?
IP audio systems offer a significant upgrade in audio quality. Unlike analog systems, which can experience signal degradation over long cable runs, IP systems transmit audio as high-definition digital data. Devices like the Zycoo SC10 and SC15 speakers support wideband audio codecs like G.722, which provides crystal-clear HD voice for announcements. For background music, many systems can play high-definition MP3 audio files, providing a rich, high-fidelity listening experience.
How easy is it to expand an IP Audio System?
Expandability is a key advantage of IP audio. Because zones are managed by software and not by physical wiring, you can easily create, change, or merge audio zones instantly from a central management platform without any rewiring. To expand the system, you simply add new devices to your network. Features like auto provisioning, found in systems from brands like Zycoo, allow for large-scale installations (local or remote) to be done quickly and easily, as new devices can be automatically configured from a central server. Similarly, Netbell IP Audio systems are described as "easy to expand" because each device is an independent web server, allowing for a scalable system without significant infrastructure changes.
What types of IP audio devices are available?
IP audio systems include a variety of devices tailored to different environments and applications. Major manufacturers like ITC, Axis, Grandstream, and Zycoo offer comprehensive product lines.
IP Speakers:
Ceiling Speakers: These are designed for discreet, flush-mount installation in indoor ceilings. Models like the Zycoo SC10 and SC15, Grandstream 3516 or the Axis C1210-E are ideal for schools, healthcare, and office buildings.
Cabinet Speakers: Wall-mounted box speakers like the Netbell-WM-741 and the Zycoo SW15 are designed for applications where voice coverage is a primary concern. Axis also offers the C1110-E Network Cabinet Speaker.
Horn Speakers: Suitable for outdoor and large, noisy indoor areas like playgrounds and fields, warehouses, stadiums, and parks. Models like the weatherproof (IP65/IP66 rated) Netbell H30, Zycoo SH10 and SH30, 2N Sip Horn, or the Axis C1310-E Mk II are built with durable casings and provide high sound pressure levels for clear announcements over long distances. Netbell also offers a network-enabled horn speaker system for loud, clear alerts.
Column Speakers: Devices like the Zycoo SL30 are designed for areas that require high sensitivity and clear, rich sound for both paging and background music in an outdoor situation, exposed to the weather.
Square Speakers: Models like the Zycoo SQ10 feature a solid modern, wall-mounted design with an optional programmable LCD screen to display the time or custom alerts. Axis also has the C1710 Network Display Speaker which combines a speaker, display, and strobe. The Zycoo SQ10-B has a built in microphone and is suitable for 2-way communication in classroom deployment.
IP Intercoms & Paging Consoles:
IP Intercoms: These are rugged, vandal-proof devices, such as the Zycoo VI Series and Grandstream's GSC3505 intercom speaker. The Axis C6110 Network Paging Console and the ITC T-7702A Paging Microphone provide a flexible solution for live announcements and two-way communication.
Paging Gateways: Devices like the Zycoo X10 and 2N Audio kit allow you to connect your existing analog speakers to an IP network, bridging the old and new systems. Axis also offers the C8110 Network Audio Bridge for this purpose. Grandstream's UCM6300 series of IP PBXs also include features for paging and intercom functionality.
What are some key features to look for?
Two-Way Communication: Many speakers and intercoms come with built-in microphones that enable two-way communication. This allows a person to respond to a page or call from the device itself. The Axis C1410 Mk II even has an integrated PIR sensor for audio on motion detection.
VoIP and SIP Integration: IP audio systems often use the open-standard SIP protocol, allowing them to integrate with your existing VoIP phone system. Grandstream, for example, specializes in this, with their UCM series of IP PBXs seamlessly integrating with their IP phones and audio devices for a complete unified communication solution.
ONVIF Compatibility: Certain IP speakers are ONVIF compatible, allowing them to integrate directly with your security system's video management software (VMS) and IP cameras.
Peripheral Integration: Some devices, like the Zycoo SQ10 speaker, can connect to external peripherals such as strobes, call buttons, and door magnets, enabling a broader range of functions. The Axis D4100-E combines a light and sound strobe siren in one IP device.
Automated Scheduling: You can schedule announcements, tones, and music playback for specific times and dates, such as school bells or daily messages. The Netbell-NTG controller has a built-in web server and comes with free software that allows users to schedule up to 500 events.
Centralized & Remote Management: Systems can be managed remotely via a web-based interface or dedicated software, allowing IT staff to configure settings, monitor device status, and troubleshoot issues from anywhere. Axis offers
Axis Audio Manager EdgeandAxis Audio Manager Centerfor centralized control of devices and content.
Where can IP audio systems be used?
IP audio systems are ideal for a wide range of environments, including:
Schools and Universities: For school bells, class changes, and emergency lockdown messages. Netbell is a brand specifically focused on automated bell systems for schools and factories.
Retail and Shopping Malls: For background music, promotional announcements, and security messages.
Warehouses and Industrial Complexes: For safety announcements, warnings, and clear communication in noisy environments.
Transportation Hubs: To manage announcements for platforms and gates. ITC's product line includes multi-zone amplifiers and network adapters suitable for large facilities.
