Recommended Adapters for Overhead Paging Systems

Scope:

The following document will how to select the appropriate paging system equipment for your client’s needs.

Selecting a SIP Paging Adapter

Unlike paging systems using FXS or FXO ports, the type of sip paging adapter used varies based on the paging system and the client’s needs. In order to ensure you select the correct paging adapter for your overhead paging system, you will need to know the following information:

1. Do you have existing equipment? (Speakers & Amps)
   1. Model & Make of equipment?
   2. How many zones?
   3. Amp watts?
2. If no existing equipment:
   1. How much space needs coverage?
   2. Is this for a loud area?
   3. How many zones needed?
   4. Will any of them be outdoor?

Determine the Type of Interface

To connect to an overhead paging system, you must first determine the type of interface involved. Overhead Paging systems can have any of three different interfaces:

• FXS- A port that connects the router or access server to end-user equipment such as office phones, fax machines, or modems. In other words, it is a plug on the wall that delivers dial battery, loop current, and ringing voltage to the device, so that the analog signal can be transmitted.
• FXO- A port on the end communication device, such as an office phone or fax machine. The FXO connects the device to the FXS port, as well as to the outside telephone line, requesting the dial tone needed to initiate a call.
• RCA - A type of electrical connector commonly used to carry audio and video signals.

FXS or FXO Interfaces

For systems with an FXS or FXO interface, a standard SIP ATA adapter will work fine. We recommend using the following devices

• Grandstream Handytone HT812- 2 FXS Ports
  • Provisioning Guide
• Grandstream Handytone HT 814 - 4 FXS Ports
• Poly Obi302- 2 FXS Ports
  • Provisioning Guide

RCA Interfaces

For systems with an RCA interface, you will need a SIP-capable paging adapter. The paging adapter will register to the PBX like a traditional device and can be paged.

Connection Diagram

The following diagram shows the interaction between an IP phone with multicast paging, the PBX, and an overhead paging system connected to a sip paging adapter.

Recommended Adapters

For a single zone with no amplifier, the recommended adapter is a Snom PA1. This device includes an amplifier already, which means no additional equipment is necessary.

For a single zone with an existing amplifier, the recommended adapter is an Algo 8301. This device provides a dry page output to a traditional amplifier.

For more complex setups with multiple zones and amps, please contact the orders department with the above information for an accurate recommendation. Below are some common and known compatible devices for review.

• Algo
  • Algo 8301
• Snom
  • SNO-PA1 - Snom has developed a SIP bridge (PA1) enabling businesses to extend their existing public announcement speaker system while upgrading from digital/POTs systems into SIP-based voice communication solutions.
• Viking
  • PA-2A
    * Ideally use a Grandstream Handytone HT812 FXS port to connect to pins 5 & 6, turn Talk Battery OFF.
    * Note: Contact Viking support for firmware that supports Outbound Proxy authentication.
  • If using FXS: Add RAD-1A use 600ohm out to PA-2A ports 5/6. Plug FXS into phone line in on RAD-1A.

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