Installation Instructions
Praetorian Guard Smart Intercom
PROFESSIONAL INSTALL ONLY
Manual Version 1
The manufacturer cannot legally offer technical support to non-qualified gate or door installers. End users should employ the services of a professional install company to commission or support this product!
Tip: Site Survey BEFORE you begin. See page 3
WARNING: Do not power from the gate controller. Only use the provided UL power supply, otherwise damage may occur and warranty may be void. ☠️
Index
- Site Survey: 3
- WiFi Setup: 4-9
- Answering on Android: 9
- Answering on Apple: 10
- LAN setup: 11-12
- Installation: 12
- Power: 13
- Wiring: 14
- Adding Additional APP Users: 15
- Main Features: 16
- Keypad Codes: 17
- Other Features: 18
- Advanced Features: 19
- Sound, Volumes and Speech: 20
- Troubleshooting: 21-22
- Revision Changes: 22
Site Survey
WiFi: Do you have Wi-Fi signal at the gate with your phone? ? If not, STOP. You will need some form of Wi-Fi extender, or repeater, or LAN/CAT5 cable!
Speed: Do you have at least 1 Mb UPLOAD speed? ? If not, STOP! This system may operate intermittently remotely or have delayed PUSH notifications.
Security: Is your Wi-Fi Internet Security WPA or WPA2 or better? ?
SSID: Is the network you are trying to connect to a single network without duplicate SSID networks of the same name? ?
Step 1: Initial Power-Up
Do not install the intercom yet. Power it up beside the router so that you can perform the configuration with the home owner's phone beside the intercom and router. ➡️ This step ensures proper initial setup.
Note: If you skip this step and proceed directly to installation, technical support may request you go back and perform this.
Distance: Position the intercom 3-4 feet (1 metre) from the router.
Step 2: Download and Install App
Download and install the app on the end-user's phone. Search for "Praetorian Guard" and find the icon, or scan the QR code if the phone has a QR scan app. ?
Tip: Be sure to accept ALL permissions during install, otherwise you will experience problems later!
Step 3: Prepare the Intercom
Open the intercom and connect the antenna. For "Portrait" oriented models, security screws are at the top; loosen only these with the provided security screwdriver. Pedestal style "Landscape" oriented units will have a locking key. ?
Mounting Styles:
- Portrait wall mount style
- Landscape Pedestal Style
Step 4: Connect Power
Connect 24v DC power using the provided power supply. ? Ensure only the provided power adaptor is used.
Intercom Board Connections:
- 24V DC Input
- OV (Ground)
- N/O (Normally Open)
- C1 (Common for Relay 1)
- N/C (Normally Closed for Relay 1)
- N/O (Normally Open for Relay 2)
- C2 (Common for Relay 2)
- N/C (Normally Closed for Relay 2)
- EG (Earth Ground)
- GND (Ground)
Other board features include: Serial Number, Ethernet Socket, Reset button, SD card slot.
Step 5: Initiate Wi-Fi Broadcast
Press and HOLD the code button for more than 3 seconds. A tone will be heard. ? The intercom will now broadcast its own Wi-Fi network named "BELL-XXXXXX" (where XXXXXX are the 6 numerical digits from the serial ID number).
Step 6a: Connect Phone to Intercom Wi-Fi
With the user's phone, search for available Wi-Fi networks and connect to the 'Intercom ID' network. ?
TIP: Your phone needs to be within range of the intercom to detect this network.
Step 6b: Enter Default Passcode
Enter the default passcode 123456789
. The user's phone should now be connected directly to the intercom. Press CONNECT on Android devices and DONE on Apple devices. ✅
Step 7a, 7b, 7c: App Search
After pressing SEARCH in the app, the app will search for the intercom and should detect it. ?
Step 7d, 7e: App Configuration
The Intercom ID will be auto-filled. Enter "admin" for the User Name. Enter "123456789" as the default Password and press SAVE. ?
Step 8: Check Online Status
The app should show an "ONLINE" status. Press the Video icon ? to view live video. Note: At close proximity, you will experience acoustic feedback; this is normal.
TIP: If you can view live video and hear acoustics, then this proves that the intercom hardware is working as it should.
Step 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d: Connect to Local Wi-Fi
The intercom and phone are currently connected in a point-to-point link. Now, connect the intercom to the local Wi-Fi network. The intercom will search for available Wi-Fi networks and display compatible networks on the app screen. ?
Step 9e, 9f: Enter Wi-Fi Passcode
Enter the Wi-Fi PASSCODE for the network you are connecting to.
WARNING: Take care not to enter a typing mistake. The intercom will accept any Wi-Fi password and will not know if it is correct or not!
Wifi Signal strength must be at least 80%, or you will have problems! ?
Step 10: Reboot and Test
The intercom will now reboot and attempt to connect to the Wi-Fi network with the entered password. Wait 60 seconds, then re-launch the app. If you can see live video and hear audio, the intercom has successfully connected. If not, try connecting again and double-check the Wi-Fi password. ?
Diagnostic Tips:
- Intercom online, video fetching: Possible causes include poor power cable, weak Wi-Fi, or too many devices on the network.
- Intercom not showing online status: Possible causes include incorrect Wi-Fi password or weak signal dropping Wi-Fi.
- Video present, no audio: Check microphone permissions for the app in phone settings. ?
- Status cycling online/connecting/online: Normal behavior when a phone roams between Wi-Fi and cellular data.
Answering on Android
Step 11: Press Call Button
Press the call button on the intercom. The intercom will send a PUSH notification via Google™™ PUSH notification service to the phone. The notification needs to be accepted, the phone unlocked, and the app launched to reveal the visitor and allow the user to accept or reject the call. ?
Receiving a Call:
- Swipe down to reveal Android notifications and press the "Praetorian" notification.
- This launches the app to the answer screen. Press the icon to answer the call and speak to the visitor. ▶️
- Press the appropriate lock icon (depending on which relay your installer has connected to the gate or door) to grant access. ?
Answering on Apple
Receiving a Call:
- Swipe the notification left on the iPhone.
- Press "VIEW".
- The phone will launch the app. Press the icon to answer. ▶️
Note: Various versions of iOS and Android OS may have different notification acceptance techniques. Refer to online support for your device if needed.
TIP: Make sure the ringer switch is ON and volume is turned up. ?
App Settings:
- To ensure notifications are received, check settings: Settings > Notifications > Praetorian Guard. Ensure "Allow Notifications" is enabled and select desired alert types (Lock Screen, Notification Centre, Banners).
- For no voice from the speaker at the gate, check microphone permissions: Settings > Privacy > Microphone. ?
LAN Setup
This intercom can also be connected via a LAN cable directly from the router or a repeater. Ethernet LAN signals can travel up to 100 meters (320 feet) on CAT5 cable. Longer distances require a powered switch or repeater every 100m/300ft. ?
Step 1: Connect LAN Cable
- Option 1: Connect RJ45 Ethernet crimped socket. Test with a laptop or LAN tester first.
- Option 2: Use provided spring-release terminals, observing the color code.
Intercom Board Ethernet Connection: The board features an Ethernet Socket.
Step 2a, 2b, 2c: App Configuration for LAN
Follow similar steps as Wi-Fi setup in the app, but select the LAN search option. The Intercom ID will be auto-filled. Enter "admin" for the User Name and "123456789" as the default Password, then press SAVE. ?
You can now test the intercom as per steps 10 and 11 in the "WiFi Setup" section.
Installation
Intercom Wall/Pillar Mounted: Mount the antenna as high as possible and away from obstructions (vehicles, shrubs, trees) to maximize signal strength. Do NOT mount the antenna at ground level. ⬆️
Pedestal Mounted Version: Antenna cable (do not cut or join; longer length options available). Antenna mounted inside gate or fence to improve range. ?
Power
This intercom uses a 24v DC power supply, requiring up to 2 amps peak demand. Power cable selection is critical. ?
It is preferred the 24v DC PSU is installed within close proximity of the intercom. Please adhere to the cable thickness guide below; otherwise, the device may be damaged and rendered out of warranty.
- Up to 2 meters (6 feet): use minimum 0.5mm / 18 gauge cable.
- Up to 4 meters (12 feet): use minimum 1mm / 16 gauge cable.
- Up to 8 meters (25 feet): use minimum 1.5mm / 14 gauge cable.
Never use fine gauge cable such as alarm cable or CAT5 to power this device. Doing so will void the manufacturer's warranty! ❌
Wiring
The intercom board includes connections for:
- Antenna
- Serial Number label
- Ethernet Socket
- Reset button
- SD card slot
- Speaker Volume control
- Power: 24V DC From PSU, OV (Ground)
- Relay 1 & 2: N/O (Normally Open), C1/C2 (Common), N/C (Normally Closed)
- Gate controller connections
- Exit button connection
- Magnetic lock connection
- N/C button connection (requires 12v DC, not supplied)
Adding Additional APP Users
Additional users must be added with individual usernames. Do NOT use the same username.
Step 1: Create New User (Admin Phone)
On the Admin user phone, press the PLUS icon ➕ to add a user. Create a NEW username and password for any additional phones you wish to add.
Step 2: Log In on New Phone
On a new phone or tablet, perform the steps to log on to the intercom using the details created by the ADMIN phone. Enter the Intercom ID, the new User Name, and the new Password. ?
Main Features
The app provides access to various features:
- Activity log: View recent events, including captured images or video from calls. Events can be played back by pressing associated icons. ?
- Add / delete proximity cards / tags
- Add / delete keypad codes
- Turn on / off notifications on events ?
Activity Log Details: The log shows the last 100 events. Older events can be retrieved via a microSD reader if an SD card is inserted into the PCB slot for this feature. ?
Keypad Codes
There are 3 types of keypad codes:
- 24/7 codes: Work all the time.
- Time restricted codes: Work only on pre-set times and days. Select the days and times a code should work, then press SAVE.
- Temporary codes: Auto-expire.
This process is similar for entering proximity tags or cards (on selected models).
Other Features
Access various settings and functions through the app:
- Edit Intercom details
- Ring tones ?
- Check APP version
- Add an intercom (supports up to 6 doors/gates calling one device) ➕
- Check current system firmware
- Add, edit, or delete users ?
- Adjust relay trigger times
- Adjust intercom time (summertime saving) ⏳
- Wifi settings ?
- Adjust maximum monitoring time
- Adjust maximum talking time
- Adjust maximum ringing time
- Reboot intercom ?
- Simplex / duplex audio selection
Advanced Features
Enhance functionality with these advanced options:
- Notifications on gate/door opening ?
- Auto opening of gates on a weekly schedule ?
- Select resolution of camera stream ?
- View activity log ?
- Keypad codes ?
- Prox cards
- Voicemail option for missed callers ✉️
- Motion detection option ?
Sound, Volumes and Speech
This intercom supports full duplex speech, allowing two people to converse simultaneously. Acoustic performance can vary between devices (Android phones, iPhones, tablets). Some devices may require full duplex mode, while others may need half duplex mode (phone user presses to talk), especially in noisy environments or near busy roads.
Choose the speech option that best suits the individual and the device being used.
- Half Duplex 1 (Press to speak, release to listen)
- Half Duplex 2 (Press to speak, always listening)
- Full Duplex (talk & listen together using echo cancelling algorithm)
Volume Settings:
- Suggest 80% MAX volume.
- Suggest 50% MAX volume on Android.
Tip: If device volume is too loud, or if echo or clipped voice occurs in a noisy environment, switch to half duplex mode or reduce volume levels.
Note: If the phone volume is too high, an echo may be heard by the visitor at the intercom.
Troubleshooting
Remember that the intercom is only one part of the system; the customer's router, Wi-Fi network, and devices make up the rest. Issues can arise from any component.
It is recommended to first prove the intercom hardware is working by connecting the phone directly to the intercom's Wi-Fi network. If video and two-way speech function correctly in this direct connection, the issue lies elsewhere in the system.
Common Problems and Solutions:
Problem/Error | Symptoms Caused | Solution |
---|---|---|
Wifi too weak at gate ? | App offline status, video fetching, long call lag, intermittent online/offline, delayed push notifications. | Increase antenna height, install Wi-Fi booster, or use CAT5 cable to router. |
Wrong power cable (too thin) or adaptor too far | Delayed push notifications, video lag, voice problems, freezing, relays not opening gate. | Change power cable to specifications in this manual. |
Too many devices on home network | Lagging video/audio, delayed notifications, intermittent status, random push notifications. | Turn off other devices, reboot router. If resolved, router may need upgrading. |
Several Wi-Fi networks using the same SSID | Intermittent performance, Wi-Fi signal strength varies. | Change the SSID name of the Wi-Fi network closest to the intercom to something unique. |
Incorrect Wi-Fi password entered | Offline status, will not connect. | Try the setup process again. Ensure the Wi-Fi password works on your phone. |
Additional user added incorrectly | Can randomly display status "id already in use". | Re-add users correctly via the admin device with unique usernames and passwords. |
Commercial firewall | App online locally, offline remotely; remote viewing works, but push notifications fail. | IT provider needs to open ports for P2P and PUSH notification traffic (e.g., 6806, 6809, 9123, 9124). |
Insufficient upload speed | App online locally/remotely, but push notifications delayed, video lag, or "fetching" status. | Discuss with ISP/broadband provider. |
Change History
Top version | Panel version | PCB version | Firmware version | iOS app version | Android app version |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 1 | 1.0 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Regulatory Compliance
FCC Compliance
FCC Id: 2ALPX-WIFI-IBK
Grantee: Advanced Electronic Solutions Global Ltd
This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no harmful interference, and (2) acceptance of any received interference. Output power is conducted. Installation requires at least 20 cm separation from persons and must not be co-located with other antennas/transmitters. End-users and installers must be provided with antenna installation instructions and operating conditions for RF exposure compliance. The device supports 20MHz and 40 MHz bandwidth modes.
EU-RED Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer: Advanced Electronic Solutions Global Ltd
Address: Unit 4C, Kilcronagh Business Park, Cookstown, Co Tyrone, BT809HJ, United Kingdom
Declares that the equipment (Video intercom), part numbers: Wifi-iBK, wifi-iB, wifi-ABK, wifi-AB, wifi-BD, wifi-BEK, wifi-BEik, wifi-Bei, wifi-BFT-KPAD comply with essential requirements:
- EN 301 489-1 V2.2.0 (2017-03) (Electro-Magnetic compliance)
- EN 301-489-17 V3.2.0 (2017-03) (Electro-Magnetic compliance)
- EN 62479:2010 (Maximum output power)
- EN60950-1:2006+A11:2009+A1:2010+A12:2011+A2:2013 (Electrical Safety)
This product is a component part of an overall system and is not complete until fully installed. The installer is responsible for ensuring the end installation complies with local regulatory requirements. This equipment forms part of a "fixed installation".
The manufacturer cannot legally offer technical support to non-qualified gate or door installers. End users should employ the services of a professional install company to commission or support this product! ?