Comparison Tantos Marilyn vs Dahua DH-VTH5221D

— Wired. A classic setup where the signal is transmitted directly via cable without digitization, typically using a 4-core or coaxial cable. This type of connection is simple, stable, and does not require network infrastructure, making it a reliable solution for basic systems. It ensures the transmission of video, audio, and control signal (lock opening) with minimal delay, but is limited in functionality—lacking remote access, integration into IP systems, and high-resolution transmission. Suitable for inexpensive or existing analog installations.

— LAN (RJ-45). The LAN port (RJ-45) in intercom systems and call panels is designed for wired connection to a local network and provides stable data transmission, which is especially important for IP models. It allows the device to be integrated into a surveillance system, connected to a network video recorder, transmit video and sound without delays, and also provides remote access via an app or cloud service. Compared to Wi-Fi, LAN connection is more reliable, protected from interference, and better suited for systems where constant communication and quick response are crucial.

— Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi in intercom systems and call panels provides a wireless connection to the network, allowing the transmission of video and audio signals, device management via an app, and notifications on a smartphone. This option simpli...fies installation, especially in places where cable routing is difficult, and provides access to remote management and cloud storage functions. However, Wi-Fi is more susceptible to interference and signal loss, especially with weak coverage or an overloaded network, so it requires a stable connection for proper operation, particularly during video calls and recording.

Support for the SIP protocol allows devices to integrate into VoIP (Voice over IP) systems, enabling the use of an internet connection to transmit voice and video calls. SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) is the standard protocol for establishing, managing, and terminating communication sessions over the internet. In intercoms and call panels, SIP support enables making video calls and communicating with visitors through smartphones, tablets, or other SIP-compatible devices without needing traditional telephone lines. This also opens up opportunities for integrating the intercom system with other smart devices and security systems within a broader network, enhancing the device's flexibility and functionality.

The presence of touch buttons in the design of the intercom.

Unlike mechanical ones, such buttons do not need to be pressed in — they do not work by pressing, but by touch, which is somewhat more convenient. However, the main advantage of touch panels is still in a neat appearance and resistance to dirt. Such panels look modern and technologically advanced, they do not have protruding buttons that make it difficult to clean, and there are no gaps between the buttons and the panel itself, where dirt can accumulate. However they are somewhat more expensive and more difficult to manufacture than push-buttons; this is imperceptible to the average user, but is a disadvantage for manufacturers. That is why sensors, for all their advantages, have not supplanted traditional buttons.

The number of outdoor panels that can be connected to the intercom at the same time.

The call panel is an external panel through which the guest sends a call to the owner of the intercom and communicates with him. Such a panel should be at each door "covered" by the intercom. This means that the number of supported outdoor panels corresponds to the maximum number of doors with which this model can be used. The simplest option is 1 calling panel, but in fact this is often not enough. Therefore, models that can block 2 doors at once are more popular — for example, the main and service entrances to the office. And in the most advanced intercoms, it may be possible to connect 4 calling panels at once, or even more.

The number of additional monitors that can be connected to the intercom at the same time.

This function is relevant only for video-enabled models — video intercoms and IP intercoms (see “Device type”). In such models, the intercom itself is called a monitor — an indoor unit with a screen. This paragraph indicates how many additional indoor units can be connected to this model. The need for such a connection arises in cases where access to the security system must be provided from several points at once — for example, in a private house on several floors, where it would be inconvenient to run from floor to floor to the intercom. In this case, intercoms with access to 3 monitors, 4 monitors or more are appropriate.

Note that the format of multiple monitors working together may be different, see "Connection Type" for more details.

The number of video cameras that can be simultaneously connected to the intercom. The mode of operation with these cameras can be different — a mosaic of several signals at once, switching between signals with each one displayed on the full screen, etc. However, anyway, to work with several video cameras, it is desirable that their corresponding number be directly claimed in the intercom — otherwise you will have to resort to installing additional equipment.

The simplest modern intercoms allow the connection of 1 or 2 cameras, in more advanced ones this number can reach 4 or more.

The number of alarm inputs provided in the design of the intercom.

Such inputs allow the intercom to receive service signals from other elements of the security system — various sensors (motion, opening, temperature), cameras and video surveillance recorders, etc. This provides additional features for setting up the security system for certain events: for example, you can provide automatic activation of the video intercom camera when an opening sensor on an external wicket or gate is triggered. The specific functionality of alarm inputs for each model should be specified separately; however, anyway, such connectors allow you to increase automation and reduce dependence on the human factor. And the number of such inputs corresponds to the number of control components of the security system, which can be simultaneously connected to the intercom directly, without the use of additional equipment. Most often, it ranges from 3 to 8, and in some models it reaches one and a half dozen.

The number of alarm outputs provided for in the design of the intercom.

Alarm connectors are used to exchange service signals between individual components of the security system, most often to automatically turn on a particular function. The presence of alarm outputs in the intercom allows you to transmit control signals from it to other security devices — locks, spotlights, surveillance cameras, a siren, etc. For example, you can configure the system so that when you press the call button, not only the video intercom camera, but also external surveillance cameras.

The specific functionality of alarm outputs for each model should be specified separately; however, anyway, such connectors allow you to increase automation and reduce dependence on the human factor. And the number of such outputs corresponds to the number of controlled components of the security system, which can be simultaneously connected to the intercom directly, without the use of additional equipment. However, for a number of reasons, this number rarely exceeds 1.

Support for POE (Power Over Ethernet) is found only in models with a LAN connection. As the name suggests, it allows power to be supplied through the same network cable that connects the device to an intercom or other device. This is much more convenient than laying a separate wire for power or fiddling with autonomous power sources.