Barix Introduces IP Intercom Solution for Crestron Environments
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, October 13, 2008 — Barix AG, a pioneer in IP-based audio, intercom, control, and monitoring, announces the availability of the Annuncicom 100-CS, a custom Audio over IP intercom solution developed collaboratively with Crestron for easy integration into residential control environments. Crestron Electronics, based in Rockleigh, New Jersey, is the world’s leading manufacturer of advanced control and automation systems. Barix developed the Annuncicom 100-CS to operate seamlessly within residential Crestron systems after joining the company’s Integrated Partner Program earlier this year. The Annuncicom 100-CS features special firmware to communicate with software in Crestron control systems for residential analog audio and digital IP intercom applications, enabling point-to-point distribution of full-duplex audio between devices. The Annuncicom 100-CS can communicate with specific products in Crestron AV distribution systems, including certain Crestron Isys® Wall Mount Touchpanels, as well as Crestron intercom distribution switchers and interface solutions. Barix’s Audio over IP technology enables Crestron dealers to integrate new digital IP intercom solutions within the framework of existing analog infrastructures. The solution provides a flexible, cost-effective digital upgrade path without the need to replace entire analog solutions. “The development of this new firmware allows Barix and Crestron to build a cohesive product for Crestron dealers as they work to address challenges for our residential customers,” said Chris Wildfoerster, Director of Business Development for Crestron. “The solution provides tremendous value for Crestron dealers by bridging existing analog touchpanel and distribution products with new digital IP touchpanels, while providing greater flexibility and ease of use for end users in the home.” The Barix Annuncicom 100-CS can be integrated within the Crestron control environment in a variety of applications. Examples include high audio quality, hands-free intercom and door control (ring button/door release) directly from a specific Crestron touchpanel; or audio distribution to one of many touchpanels within a network connected to a central Crestron distribution switcher. The Annuncicom 100-CS also enables end users to access device readings within the Crestron environment for performance and status monitoring. “Barix is pleased to introduce its flexible Annuncicom IP intercom platform into the greater Crestron control environment,” said Johannes G. Rietschel, CEO and Founder of Barix AG. “The Annuncicom 100-CS is a perfect companion for Crestron’s robust control platform within residential environments to create a centralized, IP-based security and communication system. We are pleased to announce the availability of the Annuncicom 100-CS within the Crestron residential product portfolio and look forward to future collaborations with Crestron in the IP audio and control markets.” All Barix products are inexpensive, low-power devices that are scalable to the growth of the operation; offer reliability through a PC-FREE design with no moving parts; and serve as a flexible platform for integration into virtually any operation requiring audio transport and delivery. Barix also offers programmable software to engineers and end users for universal custom programming.