New Annuncicom 155 solution allows for on-vehicle configuration of reliable communication systems based on existing LAN/WAN infrastructures

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, August 24, 2010 — Barix AG, a pioneer in IP-based audio transmission, intercom, control and monitoring systems, introduces the Annuncicom 155 IP intercom and announcement device developed foremost for use on trains and in rail stations and tunnels.

The device, to be introduced at the Innotrans rail transportation show in Germany (Messe Berlin Exhibition Centre, September 21–24, Hall 4.1, Stand 216), enables systems integrators to set up tailored communication systems ranging from simple door intercom, PA and background music systems to complex monitoring functions and emergency announcement systems.  It is also the first Barix device to meet EN50155 standard requirements for rail vehicle installations.  (“Railways Applications Electronic Equipment Used on Rolling Stock.”)

The basic principle of an Annuncicom 155 communication system is both elaborate and simple.  At least two devices are connected to a standard TCP/IP LAN network to exchange live announcements as well as priority, monitoring and control information for a standalone system.  Barix SIP firmware can enable integration into conventional SIP-based telephone systems.  Control signals and a serial port allow the connection of a selector switch, buttons or display.  This allows for destination selection and the control and display of connection status.

The Annuncicom 155 system can operate as a standalone system or in conjunction with PCs and central IT management in a standard network, enabling low-cost and quick configuration of the communication system while guaranteeing future expansion.

“As with all Barix products, the Annuncicom 155 is based on standard TCP/IP and works with Audio-over-IP.  This means it can be integrated very easily and conveniently into existing networks, and allows for wide-range networking and deployment – even in Multicast mode to simultaneously address any number of subscribers,” said Johannes G. Rietschel, CEO and Founder of Barix AG.  “Its stable design is perfectly suitable for harsh everyday operation in trains, buses and ships, as well as for deployment in general applications under harsh environments, including transport and industrial.”

The Annuncicom 155 conforms to the usual transportation standards including EN50121 and EN50155.  Devices without EN50155 conformity are typically not used in trains, carriages and other rolling stock for railways.

“The requirements for such devices are quite demanding, and we are happy to offer the first Barix product to the rail transportation industry that meets requirements for on-board use,” said Rietschel.

Many people use IP Phones at home. A very popular phone is the Siemens Gigaset product range, which provides analog line as well as VoIP/SIP connectivity. Models C470IP, C475IP, S675IP and S685IP are currently in the market.

But .. how do you connect a door intercom or door station to them ?

Fortunately, the latest SIP firmware for the Annuncicom makes a perfect companion for the Siemens Gigaset IP phones, it can talk with the Siemens phone via IP !

• A visitor, who presses the “ring” button on the phone, places a SIP call to the Siemens base. This can be done “peer-to-peer”, so it won’t consume an account entry, and it does not need a PBX or server to work.

• The DECT phones will ring, indicating a call from the IP address of the Annuncicom

• The user can answer the phone talk to the person in front of the door, and also open the door by typing a configurable number sequence on the keypad (for example, “11”).

• Even multiple Annuncicoms can be used in this fashion, for example, for front door and back door !

The solution works, of course, also with other SIP PBXes like Asterisk, but the beauty with the Siemens IP phones is that there is no servers, no PBX, only little configuration needed.

Contact us if you are interested in more details, or check out our wiki pages.

Johannes