FAQs

Business Premises - Management and Control Systems

How can I automate my business premises?

By installing a C-Bus automation system in offices and/or commercial premises, business owners can efficiently and effectively control and manage all the separate systems installed, such as interior and exterior lighting, heating/cooling and ventilation, security and access control, gates and doors, specialist equipment/appliances, boardroom AV equipment, curtains/blinds and the like. If you have specific systems not mentioned above that you would like automated, or you would like further information, please feel free to contact us for assistance.

Can the C-Bus automation system be controlled by a remote?

Yes, the C-Bus Control and Management system can be controlled by a hand-held infrared remote.

Will the C-Bus automation system reduce energy and utility costs for me?

Yes. We would programme your C-Bus automation system to make full use of timers, dimmers, lights that turn off when you leave the room or as natural light changes, e.g. automated lighting, heating/cooling and ventilation and the like can be programmed for wise optimum use which will help reduce energy and utility costs.

Can a security alarm system be integrated into the C-Bus automation system?

Yes. For most security systems the functions which can be immediately integrated with the C-Bus automation system include auto-arming and disarming. However, depending on the compatibility of your alarm system, it may be possible for you to monitor the status of each security zone of your business premises on a conveniently located touch screen (or even your iPhone).

Is the C-Bus automation system easy to use?

It should be. We design our automation systems to make life easier not harder. Larger business premises often have numerous and complex systems installed. All these systems can be brought under the control of the automation system. This is often done via a touch screen or a keypad using Dynamic Labelling Technology.

Multi Room Audio

What is multi-room audio?

A multi-room audio system lets you enjoy music from several audio sources such as MP3 players, Media Players, satellite tuners, CD players and even your iPod in any area of your home, inside or out, all at the same time. Dad can relax with jazz on the patio. Mum can work out to rock-n-roll in the bedroom. The kids can play games while listening to their iPod in the family room. With a multi-room system, everybody gets exactly what they want, when they want it.

Typically, all of the equipment is neatly concealed in one location, out of sight. All wiring is hidden within the walls. What you see are elegant keypads and speakers, intelligently designed to blend with the décor. You can even extend your music outdoors with weatherproof speakers. At the push of a button, you’re listening to your choice of music.

How many speakers are in each zone or a room?

The multi-room audio amplifier provides a stereo output (two channels) for each zone. Therefore, you would normally connect two separate speakers, one for each channel. However, you can use a single two channel stereo speaker where the room/area is quite small.

What is the maximum number of zones/areas I can have?

By installing, for example, a Russound system there is no fixed maximum number of zones that multi-room audio can be distributed to. These systems are designed so that they can be extended infinitum, usually in modules of six-zone multi-room audio amplifiers.

What is the normal power output per zone?

These range from 40watts to 60watts per zone directly from the controller amplifier. However, additional power amplifiers may be added to boost power output for a particular zone, e.g. outdoor entertainment zone.

How do I control the volume in different rooms?

Normally by keypad or infrared remote. A keypad is normally installed in each zone/area. From the keypad you can also control the source for that particular zone/area. You also have the option of installing a touch screen or controlling it by your iPhone.

Automation

Can I put my devices out of sight?

Yes! A large part of audiovisual system integration is taking messy devices, such as TV boxes, DVD players and game consoles, out of sight and into a dedicated Media Cupboard. You can still watch TV and play video games – the only difference is the room will look much tidier.

What will system integration cost me?

Every system integration project is unique. The cost depends on the complexity of your project. Our experts are more than happy to help articulate your requirements and provide a quote.

How easy is the remote to use?

We have designed our remotes and apps to be as user friendly as possible. You don’t need to know how system integration works. Our remotes are clearly labelled with each option available. It’s as easy as pressing a button.

Can I control the systems from my Smartphone/tablet or do I need a new device?

Yes, you can control the integration system from your own device. However this will come at a cost to you. Please consult our experts for a quote.

Hearing Aid Loops

What is an induction loop?

An induction loop is a cable that encloses the audience area. It is connected to a loop amplifier that gets its signal from a microphone placed in front of the person speaking or via a direct connection from a sound system, or other sound source. The resulting electric current in the loop produces a magnetic field corresponding to the speaker’s voice. Anyone within the area of the loop who is wearing a hearing aid switched to the ‘T’ setting, or a loop listening aid, can pick up this field. Users may need to adjust their own hearing aids for volume.

The loop wire usually runs around the edges of a room so that it serves the entire audience area. Sometimes, however, it only encloses a particular seating area. It can also be routed over doors and arches. This doesn’t affect how the loop works.

Loops consist of ordinary insulated cable, but the gauge must be chosen with care. The cable is normally run around the edges of the room – usually a single turn is used, but some systems may need two or more turns of cable to generate sufficient magnetic field or to match the amplifier’s characteristics.

How do they work?

Induction loops and infrared systems replace the sound path between the sound source and the hard-of-hearing person with either an inductive (magnetic) or infrared signal that is not affected by acoustics or other sounds.

The hard-of-hearing person uses a receiver that converts the signal back to sound. With loop systems, this is usually their own hearing aid (only those with a ‘T’ position). Infrared systems use special receivers to convert the signal back to sound. Both systems enable users to hear from anywhere covered by the system. The sound that people hear without a receiver is unaffected.

What are induction loop and infrared systems?

Hard-of-hearing people find it difficult to hear in larger venues because of poor room acoustics. The problem is made worse by the distance that sound has to travel before it reaches the audience, background noise and competing sounds.

Induction loops and infrared systems reduce background noise so that sound can be heard more clearly.

Infrared (IR) Hearing Aid Loop Systems

How do infrared hearing systems work?

1 The input to an infrared system can be from a microphone, a sound system or any other audio source. They each produce an electrical signal which contains the audio information.

2 This signal is fed to the modulator which prepares the audio signal for the subsequent infrared (IR) transmission.

3 This processed electrical signal is then fed to the radiator. The radiator light emitting diodes produce the (invisible) infrared light and radiate it into the room.

4 Wireless receivers are used to convert the infrared light signal back into an electrical signal and then into an audio signal again (or a personal induction loop if used by a hearing aid wearer). There is no limit to the number of receivers that can be used on a system.

Most infrared hearing systems are single channel and use a radiator with an integrated modulator.

The easiest way to regard infrared radiators is to think of them as floodlights of invisible light. Radiators are available in different sizes depending on the area of coverage and the number of channels required. In most applications multiple radiators are used to ensure an even coverage of the light so the user doesn’t experience blind spots. With the exception of the smallest model, radiators are available in either a black or white finish.

What is an infrared hearing system?

An infrared hearing system is an assistive audio system to aid communication with hearing impaired people and is a popular alternative to an induction loop system. A typical system consists of an audio source, an infrared radiator (transmitter) and infrared listening receivers.

Why use an infrared hearing system in place of an induction loop system?

Infrared hearing system have many advantages over induction loop systems-

-Infrared light cannot penetrate walls or ceilings so overspill does not occur, unlike perimeter induction loop systems. This allows systems to be used in adjacent rooms and in rooms where confidential meeting take place e.g. Court rooms, boardrooms, interview rooms, etc

-There is no loop wire to run around the perimeter so it is easier to install in rooms with multi-levels e.g. Theatres, or wide areas e.g. Exhibition halls.

-As infrared light carries the signal there are no losses due to the amount of steel in the construction of the room which can affect the signal and frequency response of induction loop systems. Systems can also be used (with stethoset receivers) in environments with high background magnetic interference.

-Portable infrared hearing systems are quicker to set up than portable induction loop systems as there is no wire antenna to install around the perimeter of the room. There are also reduced Health and Safety issues associated with trailing wires.

-Multichannel systems are available.

For multichannel infrared systems an external modulator is installed which feeds the radiators. Typical examples where twin channel infrared systems are used are-

-In a cinema, a twin channel infrared system would be used to feed the film soundtrack for hearing impaired people on one channel, and an audio description to assist visually impaired people on the other channel. Signs and an announcement before each film inform customers that the system is available. Receivers are then issued to the customers who request to use the system.

-In a council chamber or conference room where bilingual meetings take place and a hearing support system is required (to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act). In this case one channel of the system would be fed by an interpreter’s microphone, and the another channel fed from the floor language via microphones (or a sound system).

-Twin channel receivers are used by the delegates to listen to either the translated or the floor language.

-Twin channel systems can also be used for stereo sound applications.

If more than 2 channels are needed then a narrow band infrared system can be installed allowing up to 32 channels. These are used for simultaneous interpretation at international meetings.

Induction Hearing Aid Loop System

Where can Induction Loops be used?

Induction Loops can be beneficial in a very wide range of environments, from large venues such as theatres and conference facilities, to one-to-one communications such as ticket counters and meeting rooms. They are the only effective solution to assist hearing aid users in transport environments, in vehicles, terminals and stations.

Examples of existing applications for induction loop systems:

Transport Systems 
Airports, stations and transport networks, Elevators, Help points, Car park access points

Vehicles 
Taxis and private cars, Minibuses, Coaches, Trains, Trams and Boats

Venues 
Theatres, cinemas and concert halls, Stadia and sports venues, Places of Worship, Conference and lecture halls

Point-of-Service 
Counters, Intercoms and entry-phones, Drive-throughs, Help points

Work 
Meeting rooms, Video conference facilities, Desks and offices

Home 
TV rooms, Phones, Individual car systems

Education 
Lecture halls, Classrooms

Safety 
Public address systems, Voice alarm systems, Help points

Induction loop systems are not suitable if:
– There is substantial background noise, which will reduce the effectiveness of any assistive listening system
– There is no practical way to install the loop cable (sometimes requires creative solutions – ask if you are not sure!)
– There is no sufficiently good quality audio source available

How do Induction Loops Work?

An induction loop system transmits an audio signal directly into a hearing aid via a magnetic field, greatly reducing background noise, competing sounds, reverberation and other acoustic distortions that reduce clarity of sound.

This diagram illustrates how they work.

hearing_loop_diagram Amertronic photo

 

Audio Inputs 1, either from an existing audio source such as a P.A. system or from dedicated microphone inputs feed an audio signal into an Induction Loop Amplifier 2. The amplifier drives a current into a Loop 3 or series of loops. As the current flows through the cable it creates a Magnetic Field 4 in the required area – careful loop and amplifier design ensures that the vertical component of the field is even and free of dropouts and dead zones wherever the user might be. Inside most Hearing Aids 5, a small coil known as a Telecoil 6 picks up the magnetic field signal, which is amplified into a high quality audio signal delivered directly to the ear of the hearing aid user.

How do Induction Loops help?

People who suffer from hearing loss – the unseen disability – require more than just increasing the volume of sound into their ears.

The loss of hearing is generally associated with the neurological processing of information in the brain. People with normal hearing require a signal to noise ratio of 6dB for a reasonable level of intelligibility. This represents quite a noisy background, which might be reverberation, air conditioning, ventilation systems or background noise such as a crowd of people.

When a person loses about 80% of their hearing, they generally need a signal to noise ratio of 15 to 20dB. This can be difficult to achieve unless the wanted signal is taken straight from the basic source and transmitted directly through the loop system, avoiding any reverberation or additional ambient noise.

Transient situations, such as ticket counters, information and help points, etc., are the worst areas for listening, though even in churches, theatres and lecture / conference rooms, there is often sufficient degradation of the signal to seriously affect intelligibility. In most situations it is impractical to issue any form of separate receiver and the use of the individual’s hearing aid is a major step to bringing people with hearing loss back into full contact with their environment. Only induction loop systems are capable of doing this.

Home Automation

How can I control my new Wiser Home Control (C-Bus) automation system?

By touch screens, remote controls, DLT keypads and/or a range of stylish wall switches. By adding a Bitwise controller you can also control the technology in your home by iPod, iPad, Smartphone, Laptop or PC.

 

Will the Wiser Home Control (C-Bus) automation system reduce energy and utility costs for me?

Yes. We would programme your home automation system to make full use of timers, dimmers, lights that turn off when you leave the room or as natural light changes. Automated lighting, irrigation systems, heating and the like can be programmed for wise and prudent use which will help reduce energy and utility costs.

Can my alarm system be integrated into a Wiser Home Control (C-Bus) automation system?

Yes. For most security systems the functions which can be immediately integrated with the C-Bus automation system include auto-arming and disarming. However, depending on the compatibility of your alarm system, it may be possible for you to monitor the status of each security zone of your home laid out on the automation touch screen (your iPhone can be used for this purpose if desired).

Is the Wiser Home Control (C-Bus) automation system easy to use?

It should be. We design our home automation systems to make life easier not harder. Larger homes often have numerous and complex systems installed. All these systems can be brought under the control of the home automation system. This is often done via a conveniently located touch screen or a keypad utilising Dynamic Labelling Technology (DLT).

What are the benefits of having a Wiser Home Control (C-Bus) automation system?

Security
•    Panic Scene – Hear a strange noise? Hit the ‘Panic’ button and light up your whole house instantly. All external as well as internal lights will turn on to maximum brightness. If desired, your C-Bus home automation system can be linked to your security alarm system for even greater peace of mind.
•    Vacation Scene – Away from home for some time? Deter would-be burglars by giving your home the ‘lived in look’. Lights can be turned on and off at set times as well as opening curtains during the day and closing them at night again, all according to a pre-set schedule.

Comfort
•    Goodnight Scene – Forget going around your house and turning off all the lights. Simply press the ‘Goodnight’ button on your remote (or switch next to your bed) and all lights will fade off. Need to get up during the night? Hit another button to turn on lights dimmed to half brightness so as to not disturb the rest of the household; perfect for getting ready for that early morning flight or feeding the baby in the early hours.
•    Helping the elderly or disabled – Repetitive switching can be a difficult task for the elderly or disabled. C-Bus can be set up to simplify these tasks and create preset lighting sequences, controlled automatically from a single button for ‘Morning’, ‘Bathroom’, ‘Welcome Home’ and ‘Goodnight’.

Convenience
•    Welcome Home Scene – You’ll love coming home more than ever. Simply press a ‘Welcome Home’ button when you arrive home and the system will create the perfect environment by turning on selected room lights, air conditioning, and music. You could also have a ‘Goodbye’ button.
•    Pathway Scene – Forget fumbling in the dark for keys or light switches. Choose ‘Pathway’ scene simply by opening your garage door when returning home to create ‘a path of light’ from one area of the house to another.

Cost Savings – Two examples being:
•    We usually set lights to run at 90% full power which helps save power consumption and extends the life of the lamp significantly.
•    By automating the on/off function of particular lights in certain areas, the lights will only stay on as long as the light sensor detects movement in those areas.

Entertainment
•    Cinema Scene – Recreate that cinema experience in your very own lounge room. Get comfortable as you sit down to watch a movie and adjust the lights to the exact level you want. Close the motorised curtains and play a DVD, all via remote control.
•    Dinner Party Scene – Friends over for dinner? Press a ‘Dinner Party’ scene button and welcome your guests with outdoor and entrance lighting, activate water features, soft lighting at the dinner table, air-conditioning and even ambient music.

What kind of things can be automated?

Almost anything! Our home automation systems can control interior and exterior lights, curtains/blinds, home theatre and entertainment systems, air conditioning systems, security alarm systems, the coffee machine, phone systems, outside water features, garden sprinklers, security gates/doors, garden lighting, showers/spa baths, under floor heating, thermostats, pool systems/spa and the like. If you have specific systems not mentioned above that you would like automated, or you would like further information please feel free to contact us for assistance.

Alarm System Monitoring

How do I stop my alarm from interfering with my internet?

If you’ve had ADSL broadband connected after you got your alarm installed, you may find that your alarm causes your internet to drop-out sometimes. This is because it’s not wired correctly. Please contact us and arrange for one of our security technicians to make a maintenance visit.

Will having my alarm monitored affect my phone and internet?

Normally not. Once our technician’s have made the necessary connections and installation of a VDSL broadband filter, you won’t notice any change.

Security Alarms

Sometimes the alarm goes off when it is unset. Why is this happening?

There is a definite malfunction with your alarm system. Alarms should only be sounding when the system is armed, and there has been an activation from one of the detectors being triggered. Please contact us to arrange for one of our security technicians to make a maintenance visit.

Why does the alarm keypad beep for no apparent reason?

Seemingly random beeping and/or flashing lights coming from the keypad usually indicates that there is a problem with your alarm system. Please call us to arrange for one of our security technicians to make a maintenance visit.

How do I change my user code?

In the event that you need to change your user code or add new codes to your system all you need to do is phone us and if you are one of our existing customers then we should be able to dial into your alarm system remotely, via our security computer, and make the required changes for you. Please be aware that in most circumstances a small fee will apply. Most of the time you should be able to make these changes yourself if you have the correct user manual. If you are not an existing customer we are still able to help you however this does mean that we will have to make a visit to your premises in order make the required changes.

What is a user code?

A user code is an individual PIN (personal identification number) allocated to the alarm system. This is primarily used to arm and disarm the alarm system. Certain user codes can be of a higher importance, thus the alarm system allows certain user codes to have the ability to carry other system procedures i.e. changing codes, omitting zones, arming different areas. Most systems offer the facility to program more than one user code.

How do I arm/disarm my alarm system?

Enter your user code to “arm” and then enter your user code to “disarm”.