Understanding Different Types of Paging Systems While Delving into Technology

When broadcasting audio messages in public, every place, including schools, stadiums, and airports, uses public address systems. You can inform students about their final year or play music in your department store. Or, suppose a tornado is approaching, and there is a need to send an emergency alert. In every scenario, PA systems like paging can fulfill your needs. But most people need clarification about choosing the correct device as the varieties are endless. You have to consider many factors, not just the number of speakers a specific paging system has. Amplifiers, mics, adapters – so much is there. 

Before exploring the options in paging systems for businesses to stay fully connected, it will help to know some fundamentals of this technology and how it works. Paging machines can be IP, analog, and hybrid models.

IP systems

These devices run on Ethernet, requiring endpoint management through a network. You can integrate this network equipment with IP-enabled intercom, cameras, and VoIP phones. Because these systems follow open SIP communication rules, you can use endpoint devices of different brands. If you require covering a wider area, you can trust the speakers’ multicast capability to do the job.
Multicast functionality assists you in sending the same message to various compatible endpoints via the same network. Even every endpoint can receive direct communication from a multicast IP system. Suppose aisle 3 in your grocery store needs cleaning. You can announce it in that specific section to inform staff. Because it decreases load from the network, you can rely on this system.

One can opt for this solution for its ability to integrate into any IP-based system and even mobile phones. Its additional strength is dynamic zoning, scheduling and editing routine, time accuracy, and other features. You can scale the system by adding an endpoint when required. The entire system runs on a web portal or central application system so that you can monitor all speakers from your desktop.

Analog systems

These wired devices run without Ethernet. Analog systems can be of two types: 70V and 24V. 70V paging systems include a central amplifier to power multiple passive speakers. The other one uses built-in amp speakers. You can compare this model to CCTV. These systems use dedicated cables and amplifiers. Many old buildings still have a suitable infrastructure for this type of paging. Some people rely on this method for its affordability over IP versions.

Hybrid systems

Many businesses find this technology more reliable for their needs as it combines the best of analog and IP functionality. If you buy IP adapters, you can create a modern paging system using analog speakers. Of course, full IP paging models are an expensive investment. But you can mix analog features to fit into your budget. Most features of a modern IP device will still be available.

A critical point about speaker volume control

Stereos usually contain knobs you can turn to reduce or increase volume. Phones come with buttons with labels to help you with this. But you may wonder about controlling the sound level of your paging systems. When you establish a 70V speaker, you format it to use specific wattage from the amplifier. You can refer to this process as tapping, which also works as a volume control mechanism. Some speakers come with external sound control systems. You can access them to modify low or high levels. However, these are easy to tamper with. Hence, it's better to pick your options carefully. But you have an alternative to this – look for speakers with volume control mechanisms underneath. You can manually adjust the speaker sound. Since the control remains relatively invisible, tampering risks are much lower.

Those who use IP paging speakers can control sound from the device’s centralized panel or management portal. However, if you get something with ambient sensory power, the device with built-in mics will automatically detect the scenario and manage sound.

Use of paging systems 

Hotel lobbies, grocery stores, and big retailers install paging systems to play background music. If you need one for this purpose, you will want to ensure that the speakers emit good-quality sound and are easy to control. If you use an IP-based system, you can stream music from your smartphone or tablet. But you must know about its compatibility. Or, you may want something for emergency alerts. Most paging systems allow this. Again, choose something that will enable you to integrate your system into smartphones. You may also enjoy features that alert you about bad weather, fire, gun shooting, etc. Something with a panic button can also be an intelligent pick.

A few considerations for paging systems for industrial setups  

These paging machines help you communicate with a large audience during an emergency or a critical event. The crisp amplified sound enjoys excellent audibility. The person speaks into the microphone to disperse communication through connected speakers. Your primary paging system options in industrial settings can be wired and wireless. Wired models require extensive cabling through the amplifier for each speaker. Amp connects to a phone or analog system. If you have an IP-based telephone, you can link it with a VoIP adapter. 

On the other hand, wireless models are portable and run on radio frequencies. The good thing about this system is its ability to facilitate two-way communication apart from message broadcasting. You can integrate the intercom to leverage this. Sometimes, you want to expand your coverage area. Some IP paging machines let you connect two loudspeakers covering a vast area.
If you have an analog paging system but also desire to use the two-way communication capability of the wireless system, consider buying a PA bridge. No matter what you decide, you must check the number and size of each speaker that will connect to the paging system. Pay attention to the coverage area and spacing between speakers. Select amplifiers carefully. These should not be underpowered or overpowered. 

Modern workplaces may benefit from paging systems offering message broadcasting and background music features. It saves your time, money, and space. You can focus on other critical areas rather than revisiting the same system. However, make sure to research your options well before deciding anything.