Aiphone Intercom Installation: A Troubleshooting Guide

A Troubleshooting Guide for Aiphone Intercom Installation

Aiphone is a world-renowned brand known for its high-quality, reliable intercom systems. However, the precision that makes them so reliable also means that installation requires careful attention to detail. If you are finding it difficult to install your Aiphone system, this guide will address the most common challenges, from wiring and power to network configuration.

Whether you are installing a simple two-wire system or a complex IP-based solution, most problems can be traced back to a few fundamental areas.

The Foundation: Power and Wiring

A flawless installation starts with correct wiring. Errors here are the cause of most initial setup failures.

• No Power or Communication:
  • For IP Systems (IX Series): Ensure your devices are connected to a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch that meets the required standard (e.g., 802.3af or 802.3at). Check the LED indicators on the switch port and the device itself.
  • For Two-Wire Systems (JO, JP Series): These systems are extremely sensitive to correct wiring. Use the specified cable type and ensure the connections are secure. A common mistake is a poor termination on the A and B or 1 and 2 terminals. Double-check that A on the master goes to A on the door station, and B goes to B.
• Cable Type and Distance: You must use the cable type specified in the Aiphone installation manual for your model. Using the wrong cable or exceeding the maximum wiring distance will lead to degraded audio and video quality or total signal loss.

Resolving Audio and Video Quality Issues

Once you have power, the next challenge is ensuring clear communication.

Poor Video Quality (Flickering, Lines, No Colour)

1. Check Wiring: As mentioned above, incorrect cable type or distance is the number one cause.
2. Inspect for Interference: Avoid running your intercom wires parallel to AC power cables for long distances. If you must cross them, do so at a 90-degree angle to minimise electrical interference, which can degrade the video signal.
3. Termination: For some systems, you may need to set a video termination switch on the last monitor in a series. Consult your manual to see if this applies to your model.

Audio Problems (Humming, Low Volume, No Audio)

• Humming or Buzzing: This is typically caused by electrical interference or a ground loop. Ensure all system components are properly grounded. If using shielded twisted pair (STP) cable, connect the shield's drain wire to ground at one end only (usually at the master station/power supply). Connecting it at both ends can create a ground loop.
• Low Volume: Check the volume adjustment controls on both the master and door stations. Ensure the microphone and speaker ports are not obstructed.

Network Configuration for IP Systems

For the IX Series and other IP-based systems, network setup is a common hurdle.

• Finding Devices: Aiphone provides a dedicated 'Programming Tool' or 'Support Tool' software. This is the best way to find and configure your devices. Ensure your computer is on the same IP subnet as the intercom stations.
• IP Address Conflicts: Ensure that each Aiphone device on your network has a unique IP address. Use the Support Tool to scan the network and assign static IP addresses to each station to prevent future conflicts.
• Firewall Ports: If you are connecting systems across different networks or subnets, you may need to open specific ports in your network firewall to allow the Aiphone communication protocols to pass through. Refer to the IX Series network manual for a detailed list of these ports.

Door Release Troubleshooting

If everything works except for the electric lock or gate release, focus on this separate circuit.

• Separate Power: Remember that the Aiphone system only provides the signal to open the door (via a relay). The lock itself requires its own separate, appropriately rated power supply.
• Check the Relay Wiring: Carefully check the wiring from the door station's normally open (NO) and common (C) relay contacts to the lock and its power supply.
• Programming: Ensure that the button on your master station is programmed to activate the correct relay on the correct door station.

By systematically verifying these key areas, you can diagnose and resolve the vast majority of Aiphone installation difficulties.