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| Digital VoIP or Analog Architecture |
What to choose? Digital VoIP or Analog?
Analog architecture requires that each user of the communication system is connected to his/her own control unit via a telephonic twisted-pair wire, which is an example of the traditional telephone technology.
The system functions are closely linked to the type of PABX control unit, as well as to the type of devices used.
Fitre has developed a series of VOX devices based on analog technology and equipped with their own diagnostic system, to solve the operating needs of SOS emergency systems.
Each device can be connected from a distance of approximately 2-3 km from the control unit and the devices do not require a local power supply, which is present only in cases that require a call signal reinforcement.
The digital architecture is based on the Voice over IP system (Voice via Internet protocol), usually named VoIP, a technology that makes it possible to carry out a telephone conversation by using an internet connection an a dedicated network that uses IP protocol, as opposed to passing through the traditional telephone network (PSTN).
Among other advantages in respect to traditional telephone systems, this technology provides:
• lower infrastructure costs: when an IP network is available, no other infrastructure is necessary;
• it facilitates the outsourcing of the system management elements (control unit, operator stations, etc.)
• new advanced functions;
• implementation of future options does not require replacement of the hardware.
This technology therefore allows the use of pre-existing network resources, permitting a notable reduction of costs in both private and public facilities as well as a geographical distribution of the system elements.
The same network can be used both for vocal communications (telephone – intercom – emergency communications) as well as for the transportation of TVCC images, thus simplifying the installation procedure.
Each VoIP device is part of the IP network, and therefore is connected to its network switch via a cable cat. 5 or 6 with a maximum length of 90 meters, which can be increased by using suitable media converters.
Each device requires power supply via PoE (Power over Ethernet) or from a local source.
Different communication protocols can be used in VoIP technology. Fitre has selected SIP, since SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) is a protocol based on IP, defined by RFC 3261 and used mainly for telephone applications on IP or VoIP.
Using SIP protocol it is possible to transfer various types of data (audio, video, text messaging, etc.). In addition, SIP allows for modular or scaled architecture, or architecture that is able to grow with the number of service users. This potential has made SIP the most diffused VoIP protocol in the communications market, leaping ahead of many other protocols such as H.323 and MGCP.
In addition, by adopting SIP protocol it is possible to use various standard devices designed to facilitate the use of VoIP by all kinds of people. Some examples of these devices are ATA (Analogue Telephone Adapters) or Gateways, which can convert the signals of a normal analog telephone into an IP data flow.
Fitre VoIP technology
Since the early years of introduction to the IP technology, Fitre has developed communication systems and message diffusion on IP networks for industrial facilities. It is therefore now possible to propose solutions which have had positive results on IP networks for intercom and public address systems, in particular for safety systems.
The advantages are above all evident in cases where the IP network is already well distributed and used in the same area for other applications. In this way the user can operate on a single network, with consequent savings in regards to installation and maintenance. However, also in cases where the IP network must be created, an IP network is advantageous, providing flexibility and the possibility to keep the critical components in the system under constant control.
Last but not least, it also provides the advantage of easily connecting the system to the outside world over the Internet and therefore to also perform the same usage, configuration and control operations that are available locally from a great distance.
Fitre has developed a series of digital VoIP industrial telephones in waterproof cases with SIP protocol and equipped with PoE power supply as well as local power supply at 12-56 Vdc voltage; all of which are suitable for hazardous areas.
 Special Purpose Telecommunication Systems > > Digital VoIP or Analog Architecture
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