Overview

The VMC1 System

Designed for installation in new homes, the VMC1 is a Whole House Color Video Security Intercom system that provides room to room communication, multiple camera support, basic home automation controls, and video security for mid to large residential applications. VMC1 provide years of service and security for the homeowner as many people move into ‘smart home’ environment. New housing takes advantage of state of the art electronics, internet, and security applications such as video surveillance and monitoring. VMC1 provides up to 20 remote intercom stations, three video camera stations, and offers music and communication for the whole house. With multiple 12 volt Control Outputs, VMC1 can trigger lights, monitors, voice and text message alerts, and e-mail door chime alerts delivered to a smart phone. VMC1 offers a wide range of capacities with expanded options, accessories, and recommended parts. (See Appendix A).

It is important that each step of the installation be carefully completed by the installer. In the event you need troubleshooting assistance, please call our technical support staff at 1-800-421-1587.

General Information

The following general procedures must be observed in relation to the location and installation of VMC1 components:

Where stations are to be installed outdoors, appropriate measures to provide protection from the weather are to be taken.

The power supply should be located in an area with sufﬁcient space for heat dissipation.

Guidelines for maximum cable lengths as set out in this manual are to be observed to avoid the possibility of operating problems due to excessive cable voltage drop.

Interference

The circuitry of the intercom is designed to minimize the effects of Radio Frequency Interference (RFI); and there will be minimal and occasional radio frequency interference as power outages, lightning storms, and any electrical apparatus can affect the system. To reduce instances of interference, reduce any unwanted audible buzz in audio appliances such as microphone ampliﬁer, speaker ampliﬁer, car radio, telephones etc, you add on-board EMI ﬁlters or special layout techniques to help bypass EMI or improving RF immunity. Most circuits have integrated RF ﬁlters or special design that prevents demodulation of high-frequency carriers. The use of microwaves, cell phones, cable television, bug zappers, even heating pads in close proximity, can create interference.

Master Station

The Master Station should be positioned at a suggested height of 4-1/2’ to 5-1/2’ from the ﬂoor to the center of the unit. As all wiring from other stations is generally terminated at the rear of the Master Station, the wall should be no less than 3 inches in depth. Use the VMC1MB to provide adequate support for the unit.

Room Stations

To avoid audio feedback, Room Stations should be kept at least 10 feet away from other stations. Never have more than one station in any one room and avoid mounting stations in the same wall cavity (i.e. directly below and above one another in a two-story house). A suitable height is generally 4.5 feet from the ﬂoor to the center of the unit. For Room Stations mounted on wood frame walls, place near a stud to allow for adequate support. For tiled surfaces, install a wall box before lining or tiling the walls. Cut the tiles to the inside dimensions of the wall box. Where Room Stations are mounted outside and are exposed to the weather, the ﬁtting of weatherproof covers is recommended (p/n DSWS). Stations must not be installed in saunas.

Door Stations

Door Stations are best located adjacent to the front door or at the front gate at a suggested height of 4’-6” and may require a wall box depending upon the surface to which they are to be afﬁxed. Door Stations are weather resistant, but should not be exposed directly to rain or extreme weather. Any station exposed to the weather requires a weather shield. When equipped with the appropriate weather shield the Door Station is designed to meet ANSI/IEC 60529 IP31 weather proof standards.

Gates and Entrances

Where stations are to be installed in brick or concrete columns at a front gate, the cable should be run in conduit from the station to below ground level and back to the house.

Cameras

For Door Stations ﬁtted with cameras, consideration must be given to the viewing area of the camera taking factors such as lighting and sun exposure into account.

Power Supply

The Power Supply should be attached to the VMC1MB as directed. Improper installation of the Power Supply can lead to unit malfunction and void the warranty. The Power Supply needs sufﬁcient space to dissipate heat effectively.

AM & FM Antennas

The antenna arrangement is critical to the installation for quality radio reception. Place AM and FM antennas at the highest point of the roof and at least 6 feet away from any electrical or intercom wiring. Both AM and FM antennas are directional, and correct positioning requires some experimentation to achieve the best possible result. Antenna wires should also be positioned at the highest and most accessible point in the roof. Allow additional cable at the mounting bracket for termination, at least 3 feet for the Master Station.