IntegraTek offer the following systems under the Electronic Building Systems category:
Voice Evacuation Systems
Voice Evacuation Systems also known as EVAC Systems broadcasts pre-recorded messages over the public address system. The voice evacuation system broadcast information of which event has occurred and direct occupants to safety.
EVAC Systems are integrated with Fire Detection Systems and are able to be triggered automatically by the fire detection panel. EVAC messages can be broadcasted by zone/floor or to the entire facility at once. Phased voice evacuation systems help evacuate buildings in a controlled and safe manner.
When a PA System is being used as an EVAC System, fire rated cables are used to connect all the speakers to the amplifiers. Fire rated speakers are also installed to comply with EN-54 standards. EN-54 is the European legal standard of safety compliance for fire detection, alarms and evacuation, and these regulations are setting the worldwide standard. South African legislation is continually being reviewed and developed to bring the industry up to the levels of accountability currently enforced in EN-54.
The head-end equipment which consists of the main processor and audio amplifiers also need to comply with EN-54 standards to be recognized as a compliant and certified EVAC System. The system itself as well as the speaker lines are continually monitored using a built-in checking mechanism, which ensures that the system will work should an emergency situation arise.
We manage voice evacuation systems from the design stage to the programming and commissioning, through to providing customers with full system training. The audibility and intelligibility requirements of a voice evacuation system can be stringent, so it’s critical that a voice evacuation system is designed and specified properly. We also undertake a detailed evaluation of the space in which the voice evacuation system will serve. This is often the determining factor in compliance with any performance specification and/or relevant standards.
Public Address Systems
Public Address Systems also known as a PA system, broadcast clear and audible sound and consist of an audio amplifier, microphone and loudspeakers.
Basic PA Systems typically consist of a microphone, amplifier and one or more loudspeakers. Large PA Systems can cover much larger areas including industrial sites, outdoor stadiums, shopping complexes or a university campus. These systems are also used in emergencies to address and alert large volumes of people over a large area or building with multiple floors.
Products: TOA|LDA|Bosch|JBL
Disabled Refuge Fire Intercom Systems
A Disabled Refuge Fire Intercom System is a life safety intercom (or telephone) system designed to operate reliably in a fire alarm emergency. Its equipment and wiring is monitored for faults that might occur prior to the emergency. The cabling must be fire rated and the battery backup supply must operate during a power failure and during the emergency.
According to BS5839 part 9, there are two types of systems; disabled refuge and fire telephone systems. They may be separate or be combined into one system. Disabled refuge systems connects hands free intercom outstations to a central control room and is used to inform management that someone needs immediate assistance to exit the building. Fire telephone systems is used by management and fireman before, during and after a fire to communicate with other fire marshals and fire fighters. The installation of an emergency voice communication system is governed by BS5839 Part 9: Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems.
The VoCALL Network Master Handset can be either wall or desk mounted and has a clear four line backlit display which shows the calling outstation name in plain text. Calls can be made to outstations by either dialling the number of the unit or choosing the name for a text dialling directory. Each system can have up to 4 VoCALL Network Master Handsets which gives great flexibility to the larger installations, allowing all calls to be monitored from various control points.
The most common outstation that is being used is the CFVCSHF VoCALL Type B Outstation which are designed to be versatile, compact and easy to use. They are designed to fully comply with BS5839 standards for use as a fire telephone, disabled refuge call system or as a combined system.
The outstation is available as both flush (via a separate bezel) or surface mounted with green, red or stainless steel finishes. All feature a high volume ringer, status LED and tactile braille signage providing a complimentary device to go with Type A Outstations, Master Network Handsets etc. in commercial buildings.
Products: Cooper VoCALL
Sound Masking or White Noise Systems
A comfortable, controlled environment increases productivity in the work place. Sound Masking solutions provide just that, and are highly effective in open-plan office environments where large numbers of people work together in close proximity. We offer customised products and expertise to address unwanted general office noise, greatly reduce disturbances, and enhance personal privacy without changing the aesthetics of the environment. White noise and sound masking systems give you control over your office’s acoustics.
Sound masking is part of a comprehensive solution that can do far more than noise cancellation or sound dampening materials can accomplish alone. A smart installation effectively quadruples the acoustic buffer between workers. The same system can be used to provide background music or funnel paging, creating a flexible, dynamic sound system perfect for any work environment.
Most offices suffer from an excess of background noise. This is due to the general quiet of an office, which increases the distraction caused by even quiet conversational noise. This background noise, often known as ‘pink noise’, reduces productivity. Sound management offsets this by a discrete installation of speakers that produce a carefully engineered white noise which counteracts noise problems. An added benefit to this system is the creation of privacy. This noise dampening systems create effective ‘sound bubbles’, ensuring privacy.
Noise cancellation technology improves over traditional passive noise which simply dampens the overall volume of background noise. It works better in an office environment than noise cancellation technology, which is not particularly effective in eliminating noise from the varied sources and various listening positions within an office.
What is White Noise?
White noise includes indistinguishable sounds from the entire audible sound spectrum. Today’s technology, however, focuses the sound on the frequency range of human speech.
By adding general white noise, similar to that of a fan or an AC unit, distracting sounds around you, like conversations, street noise or neighbours, are hardly noticeable. The principles behind it may seem implausible, the application has helped many people improve concentration and productivity.
Intercom Systems
An intercom system is a stand-alone voice communication system for use within a building or small collection of buildings, functioning independently of the public telephone network.
Simple intercom systems consist of basic analogue electronic components. Many new features and interfacing options can be accomplished using digital intercom systems and IP intercom systems.
IP network based intercoms can be deployed into a client’s existing network infrastructure, this can result in a reduced deployment cost. An IP Intercom system can consist of multiple devices and can be up to 500 devices per master station. IP intercom system can be integrated into building management systems and CCTV systems.
Intercom systems for apartment blocks, offices and industrial complexes provide a solution for communication between the various areas within the complex.
Video intercoms provide the added advantage of being able to see the caller especially when the call is from outside the premises.
GSM intercom systems allow a cell phone to act as an intercom handset, the gate station call directly to the cell phone number associated to a specific user. This type of intercom system is much easier deployed into areas where cable routes are in-accessible. Due to a SIM card, connected to a cell phone network is used, calls are charged according to cell phone call and data rates.
MATV/ DSTV Systems
Master Antenna Television or MATV means many TV connection outlets are connected to one master antenna control system. Usually high-rise apartment blocks, hotels, schools and cluster based residential area utilizes this type of TV distribution network.
A MATV system is basically a network of cables and specially designed components that process and amplify TV signals and distribute them from one central location. If there were 100 TV sets in a building, it would be extremely expensive to Install and maintain l00 separate dishes. Not only would It be unsightly, but reception would suffer because many antennas would interact with each other, causing interference problems.
Unlike other systems however, the MATV signal does not weaken as more people are connected provided the central infrastructure is correctly designed, giving everyone in the building a clear, crisp and a consistently good picture. Each system is specifically designed to suit the requirements of the building in which it is being installed.
Commercial premises including hotels, offices, housing developments, and holiday parks, now utilize some form of the structured cable system to supply an array of different programs and information services to their customers.
Fibre-optic MATV systems provide much more flexibility compared to those based only on coaxial cable. In addition to the greater freedom in implementing long transmission lines, the installation of the systems is also easier thanks to replacing multiple coaxial cables by a single fibre optic cable. It means that the deployments of the shared antenna systems are easier for implementation, especially in existing buildings equipped with narrow shafts or even without such conduits.
Currently, the most cost-effective solutions use optical technology at the front of the systems and for the long distribution lines run to optical nodes in buildings. The nodes convert the optical signals into electrical RF signals which are further distributed in the buildings by multi switches and coaxial cables.
The basic task is to determine the optical signal levels at the inputs of the receivers, taking into account the output level of the transmitter and the total attenuation of each optical path. The power of the optical signal at the input of each receiver must be within the sensitivity range of the receiver, with a certain safety margin.
The attenuation (loss) of optical fibres, connectors, and splitters is expressed decibels (dB), while the output power of transmitters and the sensitivity of receivers are given in decibels with reference to a power of one milliwatt (dBm). Knowing the lengths and types of the fibres and parameters of other components of the distribution system, one can calculate the loss of signal at each point of the network, including the inputs of the receivers.
Intruder Detection/Alarm Systems
An intruder alarm system is designed to detect intruder presence at any premises. When detected a local siren activates and communicate an alarm signal to a centralised monitoring centre from where an appropriate response is co-ordinated. Intruder alarm systems can be either hard wired or wireless. The key to an effective intruder alarm system is the careful selection and placement of detection devices, so as to best suit the environment and risk requirements.
Intruder alarm systems consist of a set of interconnected devices that is aimed to protect a facility against intruders and to notify the owner or/and the monitoring station/centre of any violations of the protected zones. Depending on the requirements and financial considerations, it can be a simple alarm system suitable for basic protection of a home/apartment, or a more advanced structure, which in addition to the basic functions will greatly improve the life comforts of the users. We assist the client to choose an optimal solution, depending on the characteristics of the facility and the customer needs, also taking into account future expansion options.
The interface devices are modern keypads and touch screen panels, which beyond the aesthetic appearance and intuitive operation have the ability to store maps of the facility for easier control of the entire system.
The intruder alarm system can also be controlled and interfaced with mobile phones or computers with dedicated applications and an Internet connection.
The system consist of a Main Control Panel which is mounted in a dedicated housing together with a backup battery ensuring operation during power outages. The control panel monitors the proper operation of all the equipment installed. It collects information from the sensors, keypads, anti-tamper circuits, detects any faults in the wiring, and in the event of an irregularity or alarm, switches on lights and sirens. If the control panel is equipped with a communication module, it notifies the user or security company about the alarm condition.
Keypads, touchscreen panels. These devices are the user interface for communication with the alarm system, which provides information on the system status and enables arming and disarming operations. An alarm system usually contains one main keypad and if needed zone/partition keypads. The master device has a LCD display and numeric keys, or touch screen. The daily handling of the alarm system is limited to arming and disarming operations with the use of the appropriate codes, and viewing or resetting the alarm history.
Sensors and detectors are the most essential elements of any alarm system. The proper selection, deployment and operation of sensors determines the actual usability of the entire system. The most commonly used sensors are PIR (passive infrared) and PIR+MW (microwave) motion detectors and door/window contacts mounted on the door and window frames.
The sensors used in alarm systems can be classified as follows:
Passive Infra-Red (PIR) sensors,
Micro-Wave (MW) sensors and Dual sensors (PIR+MW)
Peripheral sensors – Door/window Contacts
Other sensors: glass break, vibration, water, carbon monoxide, gas, smoke, infrared barriers (curtain detectors)
Nurse Call Systems
Many people have some familiarity with nurse call systems from the last time they visited a hospital or clinic. The system allows a patient to call or contact the nurse or nurse’s station. Some nurse call systems also allow staff to communicate with each other, and others have integrated staff/equipment locator options.
Common features of a basic nurse call system:
While modern nurse call systems can have many different features and options, perhaps the most common main components of a nurse call system are:
The bed call unit allows the patient to contact the nurse, as well as control the TV and overbed lights. Alternative breathe calls (for patients with limited movement or paralysis) can be plugged into the wall station; these let the patient contact the nurse simply by inhaling or exhaling into a particular tube.
The wall call/cancel unit contains the microphone and speaker for communication between the nurse and patient. It is also used to cancel the call when the nurse arrive at the patient. These units are also fitted in the bathroom area near the toilet and shower/bath area. Pull cords can also be fitted inside the shower or bath area.
The overdoor light is installed above the door in the passage and illuminates when a call is made from the room.
The nurse call station displays the respective bed that has activated the nurse call system.
A functioning nurse call system is a lifeline between patient and medical staff. Visitors can also use the nurse call system on the patient’s behalf. Modern nurse call systems can have many different options and features for both patients and staff. Modern systems communicates over an IP network and makes the implementation much easier by using existing network infrastructure to connect devices onto the same system.
Products: MNS|Ibernex|Sherlotronics
Structured Network Cabling
Network infrastructure is the hardware and software resources of an entire network that enable network connectivity, communication, operations and management of a network. It provides the communication path and services between users, processes, applications, services and external networks and the internet.
Voice and data cabling, structured cabling, ethernet cabling, wiring, network cables, are all terms used for structured cabling. Structured cabling is the copper or fibre wiring installed throughout the building. These cables connect IP devices such as computer, phone, wireless access points, cameras, copiers, etc. to a data and phone network. These cables can also provide power to devices, such as cameras, wireless access points, and phones, using power over ethernet (PoE) technology. Designed to accommodate frequent moves, adds and changes, a structured cabling system is the foundation of the modern information network.
Since the structured cabling infrastructure is the most critical part of your security, voice and data network, choosing a qualified voice and data cabling provider is a critical decision.
We use only high-end quality products in our structured cabling solutions, which are backed by manufacturer warranties. Our goal is to provide our customers with a physical layer infrastructure capable of supporting all applications designed in conjunction with today’s standards.
Today’s businesses require advanced information technology to maintain a competitive advantage. As technology continues to evolve, the corporate network must support voice, data, video and multimedia applications. The growing size of networks and the introduction of higher-speed access methods create an increasing need for reliable, manageable cabling systems. Careful planning will prevent congestion that can dramatically diminish your network performance. At the same time, a successful enterprise demands flexibility to meet the constant change of personnel and equipment.
Copper Solutions
The Enhanced Cat 5e solutions ensure cabling system’s ability to support the application performance you would expect. We provide Cat 5e, or Cat 6 solutions that will exceed TIA Cat 5e or 6 performance requirements and give your network an edge today and tomorrow. The structured cabling market always moves at incredible speeds, introducing new designs and emerging standards before the old ones are obsolete. We partner with leading edge manufacturers to offer solutions that will grow with your business while future-proofing your cabling infrastructure.
Fibre Optic Solutions
For maximum versatility and durability, a fibre optic cabling solution can be implemented into any network. Fibre optic cabling offers speed and reliability from the building entrance to the desktop, whether it is in the office or on the factory floor. Fibre optic cable also provides greater bandwidth and longer transmission distances while improving the overall efficiency of a network. A fibre optic solution in any building or campus environment provides a secure link for a multiple application network.
Reasons why IT Professionals Choose Fibre Optic Cables
Copper has some advantages, including the fact that it already exists in many places and is less expensive to connect network devices. While fibre optic cables are more expensive, there are several advantages that make it a more enticing cable infrastructure solution than its copper counterpart.
1. Fibre Optic Transmission Is Faster.
Fibre optic versus copper wire transmission can be boiled down to the speed of photons versus the speed of electrons. While fibre optic cables don’t travel at the speed of light, they come very close—only about 31 percent slower.
2. Optic Transmission Results In Less Attenuation.
When traveling over a long distance, fibre optic cables experience less signal loss than copper cabling, referred to as low attenuation. Copper network cables can only transmit information up to 100m due to power loss, whereas fibre cables can transmit information over hundreds of km’s.
3. Fibre Optic Cables Are Impervious To Electromagnetic Interference (EMI).
Copper wires, if not properly installed, will produce electromagnetic currents that can interfere with other wires and wreak havoc on a network. Fibre optic cables, unlike copper cables, do not conduct electricity and equipment connected with fibre optic cables cannot be damaged by lightning strikes through the fibre optic cable connection.
4. Light Cannot Catch On Fire.
An added benefit of fibre optic cables is that they are not a fire hazard. This can also be attributed to the same reason that the cables do not produce EMI—there is no electric current traveling through the core.
5. Fibre Optic Cables are more durable and lasts longer.
The lifespan of fibre optic cables is between 15-25 years and might even exceed this period. Even though the fibre is made of glass, copper wires are more prone to damage than fibre optic cables. The lifespan of copper cables are less and it is unlikely that these networks will last as long compared to fibre optic networks.
