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- Project Guide: Installing an Intercom
How to Install an Intercom
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Wired and wireless intercoms offer convenience by keeping you connected from
room to room to friends and family throughout your home. Doorbell intercom
systems also offer security by allowing you to know who’s at the door before
you open it.
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Follow These Steps
Step One
Cut Holes for the Master Station and Substations
| 1. | Use a stud finder to find the studs nearest where you will install the master station and each substation. |
| 2. | Draw an outline of the stations on the wall between the studs you’ve identified. Use a template if one came with your system. Trace around the station if you don’t have a template. |
| 3. | Use a level to be sure your stations will be even when mounted. |
| 4. | Drill holes with the drill and 1/8 in. bit in each of the four corners of the outlines you’ve just drawn. These holes will make it easier to cleanly cut out the drywall. |
| 5. | Use your drywall saw to cut out the drywall for the stations. |
| 6. | Test fit the stations in the holes and trim the drywall as needed until they fit. Do not mount them at this time. |
Step Two
Run the Wires
| Run the intercom system wires behind the wall from the substations to the master station following the step-by-step instructions in our Installing Audio and Video Cables Behind Walls Project Guide. |
Step Three
Wire and Mount the Substations
| 1. | Attach the wires to the substations according to the manufacturer’s instructions. |
| 2. | Mount the substations in the drywall per the instructions. |
Step Four
Wire and Mount the Master Station
| 1. | Attach the intercom cable from each substation to the master station per the manufacturer’s instructions. |
| 2. | Use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off at the outlet or circuit breaker you will use to power the intercom master station. |
| 3. | Connect your home’s electrical wiring to the master station by following the step-by-step instructions in our Running Electrical Wires Behind the Walls Project Guide. |
| 4. | Mount the master station to the wall following the manufacturer’s instruction |
Step Five
Test the System
| 1. | Turn the power back on. |
| 2. | Turn your intercom system on and test each substation. |
| 3. | Troubleshoot as needed, following the manufacturer’s recommendations. |
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