Amsterdam–AMX integrators can now use Voice over IP (VoIP) technology to add telephone functionality to its control systems. The companys new SIP Communications Gateways harness the power of standards-based Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to extend the features and functionality of an AMX Control System beyond traditional device and environmental control to also include two-way telephony.
When combined with an AMX Control System, the SIP Communications Gateways enable new applications that will provide greater flexibility and accessibility for homeowners and businesses. For example:
They will add full-featured IP phone and/or building intercom functionality to the companys VoIP intercom-enabled Modero Touch Panels, which provide enhanced G.711 telephone-voice-quality sound (70 dB SPL at 1 meter).
When used in conjunction with the companys new Metreau Entry Communicator – a VoIP-enabled door communication and entry system providing two-way voice communication from a door or gate to a Modero Touch Panel – homeowners will be able to speak in real time with visitors at their front door from any telephone anywhere in the world.
For the high-rise condominium market, residents will be able to use their VoIP intercom-enabled Modero Touch Panels to keep in touch with other residents, as well as building staff.
The new SIP Communications Gateways are the next step in AMXs VoIP strategy, which began with our VoIP intercom-enabled Modero Touch Panels and was followed by the launch of our Metreau Entry Communicator line, said Robert Noble, AMX chief technology officer. With those pieces in place, the time is right for AMX to extend our VoIP portfolio to include infrastructure components that bridge the digital divide to make life even easier and more convenient for users of AMX Control Systems.
The SIP Communications Gateways deliver full PBX (Private Branch Exchange) functionality — including voicemail, call waiting and call forwarding – to any residence or small-to-medium sized business. The gateways also provide telephone access via VoIP or access directly to PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) phone lines using any SIP-compliant, VoIP-to-PSTN Gateway or VoIP service provider.
The SIP Communications Gateways add telephony to AMXs full line of intercom-enabled Modero Touch Panels and Metreau Entry Communicators, as well as any SIP phone. Each gateway supports up to 50 users and 25 concurrent calls. They are available in the following varieties:
Gateway 500 VoIP phone and intercom system
Gateway 544 VoIP phone and intercom system plus four external PSTN lines and four standard phone jacks (North America)
Gateway 580 VoIP phone and intercom system plus eight PSTN lines (North America)
The new SIP Communications Gateways will be available in March 2008.
