The AX Series supports up to eight master stations and 120 door stations all wired on CAT-5e cable. It is PC programmable for easy system set up. The master stations include a bright 3½ inch color TFT LCD while the system utilizes open voice communication with both push-to-talk and VOX communication over two talk channels.

Other features include call transfer, priority call-in, private communication, selective contacts for door release, scan monitoring, selective call and master-to-master all call.

Embedded card reader audio-video door stations are available for an all-in-one solution and are ideal for keyless entry.

Centec Security of Waukesha, Wisc., has performed all of the Aiphone installations over the years for the Racine School District.

“The nature of the building (high school vs. elementary), itinerant staff and designated visitor/parent entrance will dictate the number of units required,” states Kadamian. “Generally we try to limit access to three doors in any one building and in all applications two internal monitors/strike controls are installed in each office area.”

Seamless System Set-Up
The installation in most cases is completed within two days. “This installation is based on the mapping of wire runs, penetrations if applicable, wire mold runs and interior station locations,” explains the supervisor of operations. “Centec coordinates well with their lock shop sub-contractor so that the installation is seamless.” Centec Security sub-contracts with a lock shop in Madison, WI to perform the door strike portion of the installation.

The AX Series is easy to install for the professionals at Centec. The AX Series’ intuitive programming not only saves time but saves on costs as well. A wide variety of door and sub stations, combined with sleek and sturdy master stations provide a system that is versatile, comprehensive and simple for the user to operate.

Kadamian agrees, describing the system as “outstanding, extremely reliable with minimal repairs needed.”

Aiphone stainless steel protective housings shield the units from vandalism. Kadamian points out that in an urban school district kids have a tendency of taking things that aren’t nailed down.

The Reward is Peace of Mind
There is a comfort level achieved by the school staff when they know that the students as well as they themselves are more secure. While at Racine the intercom units are used mainly to control entrance of visitors and to prevent the unwanted removal of children by non-custodial/placement parents, school officials are aware that they can depend on the system to do much more if need be. 

For example, the video output feature allows composite video to be recorded or seen on a larger screen. With the Paging feature you can broadcast important announcements and the Telephone Transfer feature allows you to contact roaming guards. Master stations have the ability to use “all call” and group “call features” between other master stations.

“Secretaries and clerks when advised that systems are being installed complain because they view it as just another job,” says Kadamian. “However, when they see how easy the system works and minimal effort involved they become dependent on the system. In those rare instances where repairs have been needed, the secretary or clerk is quick to contact me so that repairs can be affected.”

As the person in charge, Kadamian uses one word to describe the AX Series. “Great! We won’t use anything else,” he comments. “The district is in line to receive a significant grant for CCTV and access control. Aiphone will continue to be our vendor of choice for visual/controlled access of specific entrances in all district buildings.”

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