Frequently Asked Questions

AVIRE offers a range of Two-Way Communication Systems for Areas of Refuge, including the Addressable SmartCommand System, Analog SmartRescue System, Analog Command Center System, and IP Command Center System. These systems are designed to provide reliable communication between building occupants in areas of refuge and emergency personnel during evacuation or other emergency situations. 

Two-Way Communication Systems for Areas of Refuge are crucial for ensuring that individuals in safe areas can communicate with emergency responders when needed. These systems allow people to request help, receive instructions, and remain in contact with emergency personnel during an evacuation or emergency event, ensuring safety and compliance with building codes.

These systems establish a direct communication link between the area of refuge and emergency responders. When an emergency call is made, the system uses either analog or digital technology to allow occupants in the area of refuge to speak directly with emergency personnel, providing updates, receiving instructions, and ensuring a timely response.

• Clear two-way communication for emergency situations 

• Reliable operation in both analog and digital formats 

• Integration with building systems for streamlined communication 

• ADA compliance for accessibility 

• Location identification for pinpointing areas of refuge 

• Scalability and flexibility for use in buildings of any size 

When an emergency button is pressed in an area of refuge, SmartRescue activates the analog two-way communication unit, which automatically dials the preconfigured emergency line. The system transmits a location identifier and establishes a clear voice communication link between the person in the refuge and emergency responders, ensuring immediate assistance. 

SmartRescue uses an addressable unit system, where each communication unit in an area of refuge is assigned a unique identifier. When a call is placed, the system transmits the specific address of the communication unit (e.g., floor number, zone, or unit identifier) to the emergency personnel, ensuring they can locate the exact area of refuge that requires assistance. 

SmartRescue can handle multiple simultaneous calls by routing each call based on its unique location identifier. The system prioritizes calls based on the configuration set up by the building, but it allows emergency personnel to receive and respond to multiple calls from different areas without confusion, ensuring each call is addressed individually. 

Yes, SmartRescue is line-powered, meaning it draws power directly from the phone line, which is typically independent of the building’s power supply. If the building experiences a power outage, the system will still operate because it doesn’t rely on the building’s electricity. Additionally, SmartRescue can work with backup battery systems to ensure continuous operation during power failures. 

Yes, SmartRescue can be integrated with fire alarms, security systems, and building management systems. For instance, when an area of refuge communication is activated, the system can trigger the fire alarm system to alert personnel or even unlock elevator doors to facilitate a safe evacuation. Integration ensures that all building systems work in tandem during an emergency. 

If a unit is malfunctioning, the system will typically notify you via an error alert or diagnostic report. You can then troubleshoot by checking connections, verifying the line power, and ensuring the unit is clear of any physical obstructions. If issues persist, AVIRE’s technical support team can assist remotely or schedule a technician for on-site repairs. 

In such cases, SmartRescue provides clear voice communication along with visual alerts. The communication unit can display written instructions or critical information, providing support for individuals with hearing impairments or speech difficulties. Emergency responders can also communicate through text-based instructions if necessary, ensuring everyone has access to the information they need. 

SmartRescue can be configured for priority levels through the system’s management interface. You can set specific areas of refuge, such as those with more occupants, to have a higher priority in the event of multiple simultaneous calls. This ensures that emergency responders address the most critical situations first, optimizing the emergency response process. 

While SmartRescue is an analog system, it can be integrated with digital building management systems through network bridges or converters. This allows for integration with more advanced systems, enabling real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and reporting. AVIRE can work with your building’s management team to create a tailored integration plan. 

Replacing a communication unit is straightforward. Units can be swapped out by disconnecting the malfunctioning unit and connecting a new one to the existing analog phone line. AVIRE provides support to ensure that replacements are done correctly and that the system remains fully operational. We recommend contacting AVIRE for assistance in selecting and installing the appropriate replacement unit. 

SmartCommand uses addressable communication units that are uniquely identified by their location in the building. When a user activates a unit, the system automatically identifies the specific area of refuge and communicates this information to emergency personnel. This ensures that responders can quickly locate the exact area of distress without delay. 

Yes, SmartCommand allows for configurable priority levels based on the building’s needs. For example, you can configure the system so that certain areas of refuge (such as those with higher occupancy) take priority when emergency communication is initiated. This ensures that more critical areas are addressed first during an emergency. 

SmartCommand is designed to be network-resilient. If the system detects poor connectivity in a certain area, it switches to a local communication mode, ensuring that communication between the area of refuge and emergency personnel remains intact, even if the network connection fails. This fallback ensures reliable communication during emergencies, regardless of network conditions. 

SmartCommand can manage multiple simultaneous calls by prioritizing them based on the location and urgency. The system’s real-time location identification allows emergency responders to track all calls in parallel, ensuring that no call is missed. The system ensures clear, uninterrupted communication with each activated unit, allowing responders to address all emergencies efficiently. 

Yes, SmartCommand is designed to integrate with other building systems, including fire alarms, HVAC systems, lighting, and elevators. For example, when an emergency communication is triggered, the system can automatically send alerts to fire alarms or unlock elevator doors to facilitate a quicker evacuation. Integration improves overall building management and ensures that all systems work together during an emergency. 

Yes, SmartCommand’s communication units are available in weather-resistant and rugged designs, making them suitable for challenging environments such as swimming pools, industrial facilities, or areas with high moisture. These specialized units ensure that the system operates effectively in environments that may otherwise compromise standard communication devices. 

SmartCommand includes a built-in self-test feature that allows building managers or security personnel to test the system’s functionality. This includes checking both the voice and visual text components of the system, ensuring that communication units in areas of refuge are properly connected and operational. Additionally, regular testing through AVIRE’s remote diagnostics platform ensures that the system stays in top condition. 

SmartCommand’s software can be updated through remote updates, allowing AVIRE to roll out firmware and software patches without needing to visit the site. The system also has an automatic update feature, so it can receive security patches and performance improvements directly. AVIRE’s technical support team can assist with manual updates if needed. 

SmartCommand includes redundant power supplies and can operate on battery backup in the event of a power failure. The system’s communication functions remain operational during a power outage, ensuring continuous communication with emergency personnel. Additionally, the system has a network failover mode, allowing it to maintain communication even if the primary network connection is lost. 

Yes, SmartCommand can be extended to multi-building complexes or campuses. The system’s network can link multiple buildings, ensuring that areas of refuge in different locations can still communicate with a central command center. The system scales to support the needs of large facilities and offers integration with campus-wide building management systems. 

Adding or removing areas of refuge can be done via the system’s administrative interface. This allows building managers to add new communication units as needed or reassign areas of refuge within the system. AVIRE provides detailed guidance for configuring the system to adapt to changing building layouts or occupancy needs. 

Yes, SmartCommand features real-time monitoring and alert notifications. If there’s an issue with a communication unit, such as a malfunction or disconnection, the system will immediately send an alert to building management or security personnel. This proactive feature ensures that any issues are addressed before they impact the system’s functionality during an emergency. 

If a SmartCommand unit is damaged or malfunctions, the system will notify building management through its diagnostic tools. The unit can be easily replaced or repaired by AVIRE’s support team. The system is designed for easy maintenance, with modular components that can be quickly swapped out, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous emergency communication. 

SmartCommand can be easily integrated with fire alarm and emergency lighting systems through its open architecture and communication protocols. Integration allows the system to trigger automatic actions, such as lighting activation or fire alarm notifications, whenever a communication unit in an area of refuge is activated. AVIRE works with building managers to ensure proper integration with existing systems. 

Public Safety Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) ensure that emergency responders maintain strong radio signals for critical communication inside buildings during emergencies. These systems amplify and distribute radio signals across multiple frequencies used by fire, police, and emergency medical services, allowing first responders to communicate effectively and ensuring safety within large or complex structures.

In large buildings, underground areas, or locations with dense materials that block signals, first responders may struggle to maintain reliable radio communication. Public Safety DAS ensures emergency responders have consistent, clear communication during critical moments, enhancing response times and improving safety for everyone in the building.

These systems work by capturing and amplifying signals from public safety radio networks. They use a network of antennas and repeaters to distribute signals throughout the building. The systems can operate on multiple frequency bands and ensure that first responders have clear communication across the entire facility.

• Antenna System: These are strategically placed throughout the building to distribute signals. 

• Signal Boosters/Repeaters: These amplify the signals for better coverage. 

• Cabling: Connects the antennas and signal boosters. 

• Power Supply: Ensures continuous operation, even during power outages. 

• Controller/Monitoring System: Manages and monitors the system for performance and compliance. 

AVIRE offers advanced Two-Way Voice Visual Text Communication Systems designed to enhance communication in elevators and public spaces during emergencies. These systems combine voice communication with visual text, ensuring accessibility for individuals with hearing or speech impairments and providing clear, reliable communication in critical situations.

These systems are crucial for ensuring all individuals, regardless of their ability, can communicate in an emergency. By combining voice and visual text, they allow people with hearing impairments to read emergency messages while also receiving verbal communication. This dual approach ensures effective communication and improves overall safety in elevators and areas of refuge.

Two-Way Voice Visual Text Communication Systems establish a two-way communication link between elevator passengers and emergency personnel. When an emergency call is made, the system displays real-time text messages on a screen inside the elevator while providing audio communication through a speaker, ensuring that individuals with hearing impairments can read the conversation while also hearing important information.

• Dual communication modes (voice and visual text) for accessibility 

• Clear audio and legible text display for effective communication 

• Real-time updates to ensure timely responses during emergencies 

• Compliant with accessibility standards 

• User-friendly interface for easy interaction in stressful situations 

SmartView 2 uses addressable communication units, which are pre-programmed with unique location identifiers for each area of refuge, such as specific floors or zones within the building. When an emergency call is made, the system transmits this location data to emergency responders in real-time, allowing them to identify the exact area of refuge and respond quickly. The system uses addressable hardware integrated with the building’s network to pinpoint the exact area. 

Yes, SmartView 2’s visual text display is designed to adjust to different lighting conditions. The system uses high-brightness LED screens that automatically adjust their contrast and backlighting based on the ambient light in the elevator or area of refuge. This ensures that the text remains clearly visible, even in low-light or direct sunlight environments, providing optimal readability at all times. 

SmartView 2 is equipped with noise-canceling microphones and high-fidelity speakers that ensure clear audio communication even in noisy environments, such as high-traffic elevator lobbies. The system is designed to filter out background noise and prioritize the emergency communication signal. Additionally, the system’s volume control automatically adjusts depending on the ambient noise level to ensure voice clarity without distortion. 

SmartView 2’s multi-channel communication architecture allows it to manage simultaneous calls from multiple areas of refuge. Each activated unit (elevator or area of refuge) is assigned a unique ID number and prioritized based on the configuration settings. The system immediately routes each call to emergency responders with an automated priority system, enabling quick, organized responses. Responders can handle each communication individually, but the system ensures that no communication is lost or delayed. 

SmartView 2’s operation is not dependent on the building’s main power supply. It is line-powered, drawing its energy from the analog phone line. In case of a power outage, the system automatically switches to a backup power source, such as a battery backup that provides enough power to maintain both audio and visual communication for up to 48 hours. The backup power is continuously monitored to ensure that the system is always ready during emergencies. 

If a SmartView 2 unit is damaged, the system includes self-diagnostics that automatically detect malfunctions such as broken connections, failed displays, or audio problems. The system will send an alert to the building management or security team, notifying them of the issue. AVIRE’s support team can either remotely troubleshoot the issue or dispatch a technician to replace the unit. Additionally, redundancy features allow for continued operation of the other units, ensuring ongoing safety. 

SmartView 2 is built to function independently of the network in emergency situations. The system’s analog communication method allows it to continue operating by directly connecting the emergency communication unit to the designated emergency response line. If the building’s network fails, SmartView 2 will continue to use dedicated phone lines to communicate with emergency personnel, ensuring communication is not interrupted. 

Yes, SmartView 2 can be retrofitted into older elevator models. The system is designed to work with existing elevator wiring and phone lines, meaning minimal modifications are required. AVIRE’s technicians will assess the existing infrastructure and install the communication unit, ensuring that the audio and visual components integrate with the elevator’s existing control panel without the need for significant upgrades. 

SmartView 2 features an integrated test mode that allows building personnel to simulate an emergency. During this test, the system will activate the display and verify the text clarity and contrast. Audio functionality can also be tested by activating the microphone and speaker to ensure clear two-way communication. AVIRE also offers remote diagnostics, allowing for regular automated testing of all connected units to verify their operational status. 

SmartView 2 offers customizable messaging capabilities. Building managers can input specific emergency protocols or instructions into the system, which will be displayed in the visual text field during an emergency. These messages can be tailored to reflect evacuation routes, safety procedures, or specific instructions for occupants. AVIRE provides an easy-to-use management interface for adding or editing these messages. 

SmartView 2 is designed for use in a variety of environments, including high-rise buildings, hospitals, and commercial spaces. The system’s ruggedized housing and high-brightness LED screens make it suitable for areas with high humidity, extreme temperatures, or harsh conditions like industrial environments. AVIRE also offers weatherproof enclosures for installation in exposed or challenging locations, such as swimming pools or outdoor areas. 

AVIRE offers a range of Lobby & Machine Room Communication Systems designed to facilitate clear and efficient communication between elevator passengers, machine room operators, and maintenance personnel. These systems are crucial for ensuring safety and effective communication during emergencies, routine maintenance, and elevator operation.

These systems provide essential communication between elevator passengers and personnel in the lobby or machine room, particularly during emergencies. They help ensure that issues with the elevator can be addressed quickly, improve operational efficiency, and allow for immediate response to safety concerns. AVIRE’s systems offer reliable and seamless communication to ensure safe elevator operation.

• Two-way communication between elevator cabins, machine rooms, and lobbies 

• Emergency communication capabilities for quick response to incidents 

• Integration with building management systems for real-time monitoring and troubleshooting 

• Clear audio quality for reliable communication in busy or noisy environments 

• Wireless options to simplify installation and reduce wiring needs 

• Remote monitoring and diagnostic tools for machine room operators 

Both Line Powered Phones and VoIP Phones connect passengers in the elevator with emergency personnel or building management. When the emergency button is pressed, the phone establishes a direct line of communication, allowing for quick assistance. The phones are designed to work reliably, even in the event of a power failure (Line Powered Phones) or network disruption (VoIP Phones).

Elevator phones are critical for ensuring safe and reliable communication during emergencies. They provide a direct line to emergency responders or building management, allowing passengers to request assistance in case of entrapment or other issues. AVIRE’s Line Powered Phones and VoIP Phones ensure continuous communication in all conditions, even when traditional systems fail.

• Reliable two-way communication for emergency situations 

• Line Powered Phones that operate during power outages 

• VoIP Phones that integrate seamlessly with modern building communication systems 

• ADA-compliant design for accessibility 

• Clear audio for effective communication in emergencies 

• Durable construction for heavy use and harsh environments 

AVIRE offers a range of Elevator Door Detection Systems, including 2D, 3D, and Smart3D technologies. These systems are designed to detect obstacles in the path of elevator doors, ensuring safe and smooth door operation. They automatically reverse or stop the door’s movement when an obstruction is detected, preventing accidents and ensuring elevator safety.

Elevator Door Detection Systems are essential for preventing injuries and damage caused by doors closing on obstacles. These systems detect objects or people in the door’s path, stopping or reversing the door to prevent accidents. AVIRE’s 2D, 3D, and Smart3D systems ensure safe operation and comply with safety standards like ADA and ASME A17.1.

Each system uses sensors to monitor the elevator door’s opening and closing process. When an obstruction is detected by a sensor, the system automatically stops or reverses the door’s movement, preventing harm or damage. These systems are designed to react quickly and efficiently to keep elevator passengers safe.

• Obstacle detection to prevent injuries or damage 

• Automatic door reversal when an obstruction is detected 

• Advanced detection technology (2D, 3D, and Smart3D options) 

• Enhanced safety for passengers, particularly in high-traffic areas 

• Real-time analytics for Smart3D, improving system intelligence 

• Seamless integration with existing elevator systems 

The Smart3D System is highly accurate in detecting even small or low-height obstacles, such as pets, bags, or shoes, which traditional infrared or ultrasonic systems might miss. The system uses 3D depth-sensing to detect objects at varying heights and distances with millimeter precision. This ensures that small items on the ground, such as a handbag or pet, are detected in real-time and that the doors reverse to prevent any potential harm.

Smart3D uses multi-point detection and object tracking capabilities to process and analyze multiple obstructions simultaneously. For example, if a person is standing in front of the door with a cart or bag, the system will detect both the person and the bag in the doorway. It then calculates their relative position and prioritizes larger obstacles (e.g., people) while still preventing the doors from closing on smaller items. The system continuously tracks moving objects, ensuring no obstacles are missed.

Smart3D is designed to work in both high-light and low-light environments. The system uses laser triangulation, which operates independently of ambient light levels, unlike traditional infrared sensors that can be affected by sunlight or shadows. In direct sunlight or bright environments, the system’s 3D laser sensors maintain performance without being influenced by the lighting conditions, ensuring consistent and reliable obstacle detection.

If Smart3D detects an obstruction but the door does not reverse, it may indicate: 

• Sensor misalignment or obstruction of the laser sensor by dirt or debris. This can be fixed by cleaning the sensors or recalibrating the system. 

• Hardware malfunction or software issues. In such cases, the system will send an alert to the building management team for immediate troubleshooting. AVIRE provides technical support to identify the issue and resolve it, ensuring the system is fully operational. 

• Inadequate power supply or communication failure between the sensor and the elevator control system. AVIRE can conduct a diagnostic check to identify and resolve the issue quickly. 

Yes, Smart3D is designed to be easily retrofitted into existing elevator systems. The system is compatible with most elevator brands and models that use standard door control systems. Retrofitting involves installing the 3D sensor unit at the top of the door frame, connecting it to the elevator’s control system, and calibrating it for optimal performance. AVIRE’s team ensures the installation process is seamless and does not disrupt elevator operations. 

Smart3D can be configured to handle elevators with different door sizes. The system’s sensors are highly adaptable and can be calibrated to detect obstructions in both narrow and wide doors, as well as tall and short door frames. The system adjusts its detection area to ensure full coverage of the entire door opening, regardless of the door’s dimensions, ensuring reliable and accurate detection in various door configurations. 

Smart3D requires regular maintenance every 12 months. Maintenance typically includes: 

• Sensor alignment checks to ensure proper coverage 

• Cleaning the sensors to avoid obstruction from dust or dirt 

• Firmware updates to ensure the system runs with the latest software improvements 

• System calibration to adjust for any environmental changes that may affect detection accuracy AVIRE offers preventative maintenance services to ensure the system stays in top condition and continues to function accurately. 

If Smart3D stops detecting correctly or appears unresponsive, follow these steps: 

• Check for obstruction or dirt on the sensors. Clean the sensor lens with a soft, dry cloth to ensure optimal performance. 

• Verify sensor alignment. If the sensor is misaligned, recalibrate it to ensure accurate detection. 

• Check the power supply to ensure the system is connected to the correct power source, and verify that the backup battery is functioning correctly. 

• Contact AVIRE’s technical support if the system still doesn’t respond after these checks. Our team can diagnose issues remotely or arrange for on-site service. 

Yes, Smart3D has 360-degree detection capabilities and can identify objects near the door frame, including those positioned slightly outside the direct path of the doors. The system uses multiple sensor points and depth-sensing algorithms to ensure comprehensive detection, even for objects positioned at an angle or slightly off-center from the doors. 

Smart3D is designed to perform reliably in a wide range of environmental conditions, including high humidity and extreme temperatures. For environments like swimming pools or industrial settings, AVIRE offers weatherproof versions of the Smart3D system. These versions are equipped with moisture-resistant seals and temperature-resistant components to prevent performance issues caused by environmental factors. 

Yes, Panachrome 3D is compatible with all elevator brands and models, as long as the elevator has a standard door control system. Whether the building uses older or newer elevator models, Panachrome 3D can be installed to enhance door safety. AVIRE’s team works with building managers to ensure the system is correctly configured and integrated with the existing elevator setup. 

Yes, Panachrome 3D is immune to low-light conditions and works efficiently in high-glare environments. The system uses laser-based 3D imaging, which operates independently of visible light, unlike traditional infrared sensors that can be affected by sunlight or low-light conditions. This makes Panachrome 3D ideal for elevators exposed to natural light or environments with fluctuating light levels. 

While Panachrome 3D is designed to detect all types of obstructions, it can be configured with custom sensitivity settings. For instance, it can be set to prioritize larger objects or people over smaller, less critical obstacles like bags or pets. This flexibility ensures the system is fine-tuned to the building’s needs, minimizing false positives while maximizing safety. 

In the event of a malfunction, the system will immediately send an error alert to the building management or maintenance team. The system’s self-diagnostic capabilities help pinpoint the issue, whether it’s a sensor misalignment, a software problem, or a power supply issue. AVIRE’s technical support team is available for remote troubleshooting or on-site assistance to resolve the issue promptly. 

Yes, Panachrome 3D is highly flexible and can be customized to accommodate different door sizes, including extra-wide or narrow doors. The system’s sensor field can be adjusted to account for door dimensions, ensuring that all potential obstructions in the doorway are detected, regardless of the size of the door. AVIRE can configure the system to ensure optimal performance based on the specific door layout. 

Panachrome 3D can be seamlessly integrated with other elevator safety systems, such as emergency stop systems and door sensors. When an obstruction is detected, the system can automatically signal other safety components, such as triggering the emergency stop or activating door hold mechanisms to prevent the door from closing until the obstruction is cleared. This integration provides a layered approach to elevator safety, ensuring that multiple systems work together to protect passengers. 

Panachrome 3D should be calibrated and serviced every 12 months to ensure optimal performance. During maintenance, the system’s sensor alignment, laser accuracy, and software updates should be checked. AVIRE offers regular preventative maintenance packages to ensure that your system is always in top condition, reducing the likelihood of detection issues and ensuring compliance with safety standards. 

False positives can occur due to: 

• Sensor misalignment or dirt accumulation on the sensors. Regular cleaning and recalibration can resolve this issue. 

• Reflective surfaces or transparent objects near the door (e.g., glass or mirrors). These can confuse the sensor’s depth calculation, causing a false obstruction. In this case, adjusting the sensor sensitivity or recalibrating the system can help. If false positives persist, AVIRE’s technical team can remotely assess the issue and make adjustments as needed. 

AVIRE’s Voice & Data Cellular Gateways are communication solutions designed to provide reliable cellular connectivity in areas where traditional phone lines or network infrastructure are unavailable or unreliable. They enable secure and efficient voice and data communication, ensuring connectivity in emergency situations and remote locations.

The Voice & Data Cellular Gateways ensure uninterrupted communication where traditional landline services or internet connections are unavailable. They are particularly useful in buildings, outdoor areas, or remote locations where cellular coverage is needed to maintain communication for safety, emergency response, or business operations.

The Voice & Data Cellular Gateways work by connecting to a cellular network to provide reliable voice and data services. They support both analog and digital signals, allowing for seamless communication and integration with existing systems, such as public safety networks or internal communications for businesses.

• Reliable cellular connectivity for voice and data communication 

• Support for both analog and digital signals for compatibility with various devices and systems 

• Seamless integration with existing building or communication systems 

• Backup power options to ensure continuous operation during power outages 

• Flexible installation options for use in a variety of locations, including elevators and remote areas 

• Secure communication for emergency and routine use