Say it loud, say it clear: IP Paging and PA systems

The school bell is an icon of the education system. Essential for timekeeping for the whole school, bells have long been a simple and effective way of announcing when periods and break times begin and end.

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But although the humble bell has many iterations – long or short rings, prolonged ringing and multiple rings to signal different things – ultimately, the bell is limited in its communication capacity. Bells can signal the beginnings and ends of periods, and they can signal emergencies. But they can’t communicate more complex information. And they have other drawbacks too – bells can be distressing to those with noise sensitivity and may be inappropriate for some contexts. 

Luckily, school paging systems have been improved as technology is updated. Now, schools have options such as IP school paging and PA systems. 

IP paging and PA systems operate by using an existing IP network to connect speakers, bells, voice paging, music and other audio like pre-recorded messages. These networks provide several benefits such as remote operation, convenience and flexibility. IP paging and PA systems can also be retrofitted to existing systems like school-bell systems and old speaker systems.

Additionally, new features and technology enable connection of staff phones to the network, allowing cloud-based communication for staff. This allows for the integration of communication systems with teacher and principals’ existing devices. This makes an IP paging and PA system ideal for schools as emergency responses can be activated quickly and securely.

Another advantage is the low cost of IP networks. By drawing on existing infrastructure, there is no need for additional installation of audio cables. However, schools may need to review their internet coverage network and strengthen these where needed. Another consideration is the addition of portable systems and accessories that can be taken outdoors or offsite. These can also function as temporary speakers should the need arise. 

IP paging and PA systems offer a customisability and accessibility that is difficult to beat. Public announcements and audio can be limited to certain buildings or zones, or they can be broadcast to the whole school as needed. This includes scheduled messages and alerts like bells – which can be modified into more appropriate and sensory friendly tones – live announcements or pre-recorded emergency instructions. 

In fact, IP paging and PA systems may be a solution for improving emergency responses and running drills. Devices installed onto the IP paging and PA system can have a “panic button” feature which will run pre-recorded emergency announcements. 

There are endless ways to modify an IP paging and PA system to meet the needs of your schools. Staff announcements can be targeted to staff areas or devices. It all depends on your school’s needs and requirements. 

Another unexpected benefit can be the building of school culture using the IP paging and PA system. With the customisable sound of the bell, anything can be used – music, chants and more. These can be used to gamify procedures like timely arrival to class, boosting morale.

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!”

Euan Mackenzie from NAS Solutions said infrastructure is an important thing to consider early in the design phase of any multi-building system. “Modern paging and PA system designs can take advantage of existing IT network infrastructure, providing a significant cost saving. If an old system is being replaced, consider if the existing cabling can be re-used, and if new cabling can be installed to all required locations,” Mr Mackenzie said.

Beyond communication, modern systems can control many aspects of your school. “The control system at the heart of modern PA designs can control and monitor video, window blinds and lighting systems if desired. This means one touch can ready everything needed for a class.

“Networked systems can also allow for remote monitoring of system components. For example if a paging zone or microphone is compromised, an email alert can be sent automatically so it can be remedied asap. A presentation system can be scheduled to be active automatically, ready for regular events such as assemblies.

“Touchscreens can be custom designed to limit user access by passcode, and simplify controls for exactly what each user needs. Interfaces can even be run on a network computer where remote access has been enabled by the school’s IT department.”