Networked intercom node for a networked audio distribution system

Abstract

This disclosure describes a networked intercom node 100 for a networked audio distribution system, where the system includes one or more networked audio distribution nodes and one or more networked intercom nodes 100. The networked intercom node 100 includes a control processor 110 that uses web services to control the networked audio distribution node and or other intercom nodes 100 in the audio distribution system. The networked intercom node 100 also includes a network connection 190, a speaker output connection 145. Additionally, the networked intercom node 100 includes a microphone 137 that couples to the sound processing unit 130.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 078,874, filed 14 Mar. 2005, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes into this specification.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The present invention relates generally to the residential and the commercial premise distributed audio industries and, more particularly, to audio, video and control systems for multiple room home or office facilities.BACKGROUND ART[0003]Currently, most audio distribution systems consist of a central control processor, amplifiers, matrix switches, sources, speakers, and keypads (further referenced here as Control Point Nodes). All of these components installed together comprise an audio distribution system. Typically in these systems sources, such as CD players, Music Servers, Satellite tuners, AM / FM tuners, tape decks, etc. are centrally located and connected to a matrix switch via analog or digital signals. The signals are then routed to c...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Enables users to individually select audio inputs in each room, providing flexible control and efficient audio distribution without the need for multiple external tuner components, suitable for large facilities with many rooms.

Problems solved by technology

A significant disadvantage of currently available multi-room systems is their use of a fixed number of inputs available with external tuner source components.

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