Make yourself heard: IP paging and PA systems

IP (internet protocol) paging is the latest technology for school-wide communication.

Similar to a conventional public address system, IP systems are designed to deliver one-way communication to a large audience. With IP-based paging, more features can be accessed, and more actions can be achieved compared to analogue paging.

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IP paging systems transmit messages via the internet, rather than cabling and wires. Compared to conventional PA systems, IP paging and PA systems are cost-effective, simple to install, and offer improved functionality. Often, the system can be installed using your school’s existing data network.

The school bell can also be revamped with IP paging systems. Music or pre-recorded messages can be used to signal the start or end of the school day, and different music or announcements could be used to prompt different actions. Movement music to help students transition between classes, for example, could be used in place of the traditional bell, and pre-recorded welcome messages could be used each morning to encourage students to try their best and have a great day.

Schools can opt to deploy a full IP system, or to IP-enable existing paging and PA infrastructure with IP paging adapters. Full IP systems bring significant flexibility and allow for all the features of IP devices to be used, while paging adapters allow schools to migrate to IP paging with lower upfront costs.

Jonathan Neil from Edwards is enthusiastic about IP based audio and paging systems. “They offer a smarter, more cost-effective approach compared to older systems, and will last your school many years.

“Traditional systems rely on dedicated wiring and separate amplifiers for each zone. Adding new speakers or changing configurations often involves rewiring, a time-consuming and disruptive process,” he explained.

“IP audio, on the other hand, utilises your existing network for speaker connections. This simplifies deployment and allows for easy scaling—adding more speakers or adjusting zones becomes a breeze. You can remotely configure the bell system and all the zones from the office—that’s the power of internet protocol and advanced technology built into the speakers!”

Flexible and adaptive

Because they are not reliant on hardwiring, IP paging systems can be installed and managed in diverse physical settings.

Installing wiring for traditional, analogue systems to areas of your school which are far from the main buildings, for example the oval or playing fields, may be difficult, costly or time consuming. As a result, these spaces may remain disconnected from PA systems, and messages and bells will not be heard.

Using IP paging systems will eliminate this problem, as speakers can be installed and messages broadcast in any location that can get a wifi signal. This constant connectivity for communication is crucial in schools, particularly in the event of an emergency.

IP paging also allows for flexibility in how messages are broadcast. Messages can be sent system-wide, or to select speakers, ensuring your message reaches the intended audience. This might be helpful if students need to remain undisturbed by announcements in an area of the school to complete exams, or if you have different break times for different year levels. Announcements can also be sent to devices like smartphones, and transcribed to text, making messages more accessible.

Integrating IP paging systems with phones allows announcements to be made from any phone on campus. Two-way talk capability is available on some systems.

Namo Naicker from WiPath Communications highlighted some key factors schools should consider when installing or upgrading IP paging and PA systems. “Ensure that the system can grow with the needs of your school, with the ability to accommodate additional speakers or zones as required. Additionally, look for systems that integrate with existing infrastructure, such as VoIP phone solutions, fire alarms, and lockdown triggers

“Choose systems with user-friendly interfaces for scheduling bells, making announcements, and managing zones. Prioritise systems with robust emergency functionalities, like automated lockdown alerts and evacuation messages,” Mr Naicker said. “Flexibility is also important, so opt for systems that allow adjustments, such as volume control for sensory-sensitive students or isolating bells in specific areas.

“Also consider the long-term cost benefits of IP-based systems, which often require less maintenance and are quicker to install compared to traditional systems.”

Mr Naicker said paging and PA systems can be customised to fit the needs of individual schools. “Customisable options include zoning for targeted announcements, custom alerts, pre-set lockdown announcements and warnings, and scheduling.

“As well as announcements, IP paging and PA systems can perform other functions including emergency triggers and bell automation, and can integrate with other systems.”

Emergency situations

Effective communication during an emergency situation could mean the difference between life and death. IP paging can integrate with school phone and paging systems, ensuring fast and reliable communication with everyone in your school.

IP speakers, located strategically around your school campus in classrooms and staff offices, hallways, sports fields and courts, libraries and auditoriums can broadcast pre-recorded emergency messages during emergencies like lockdowns, fires, or extreme weather.

In some cases, IP paging and PA systems can be linked to fire alarms and security systems. When the fire alarm is triggered, for example, evacuation instructions will automatically broadcast throughout the PA network. This means staff, students and visitors can take immediate and appropriate action, helping everyone on your campus to get to safety quickly.

Some systems allow for two-way communication between phones or pagers. If an incident occurs in your classroom, this two-way communication means you can contact a first aid officer or school reception to ask for help without leaving the classroom.

Portable PA systems and accessories

At times, your school may require the flexibility of a portable PA system. Portable systems may be particularly useful for offsite events, such as athletics or swimming carnivals.

Euan Mackenzie from NAS solutions said portable systems are ideal for outdoor activities, where the microphone could be anywhere and always on the move. “No cables or existing infrastructure is required for such systems and wireless technology takes a front seat.”

“For inputs, wireless microphones, and bluetooth are important but to be truly wireless the system needs to be run off a rechargeable battery.”

Mr Mackenzie stressed the importance of considering the area you will need to broadcast to, and select a system which can cover the distance. “There’s no escaping physics here. As the listening distance doubles from the speaker so does the required power output,” Mr Mackenzie said. “Having additional speakers to cover large areas not only improves delivery of important information but protects the ears of those closest to the front. Thankfully additional speakers can also be wireless.”

IP paging should be permanently installed to cover the required areas of the school, Mr Mackenzie said. “Its use can be flexible, as both paging and local sound system in an assembly hall, sports court, or classroom for example.

“IP paging simplifies installation by making use of existing school IT infrastructure. It also allows the school and the PA supplier to monitor, and service the system remotely when required. This includes running regular scheduled tests outside of class time to flag any potential issues. The result of which can be automatically emailed to relevant personnel.”

Blending a mix of IP paging and PA solutions, and portable add-ons for outdoor events, your school can ensure clear, effective communication throughout your campus, in any situation.