Aiphone DBS-1A 1-Door Audio Intercom System Kit
Overview
The Aiphone DBS-1A is a pre-configured, single-entrance audio intercom system designed for small residential or commercial installations. The DBS-1A (often searched as DBS 1A) ships as a complete box set, eliminating the need to source components separately. It includes a tenant master station, a 1-call entrance station, and a dedicated power supply, providing an entry-level solution for voice communication between entry points and interior spaces.
Built on Aiphone's DB Series platform, the system supports hands-free (VOX) or push-to-talk (simplex) communication modes, allowing occupants to answer calls without manually lifting a handset. The door station integrates with door release hardware, enabling remote access control directly from the master station without requiring a separate transformer.
Key Features
- Integrated Door Release: Powered by the door station itself with support for 9.5–20V AC door strikes rated 70Ω or higher resistance; uses optional EL-12S transformer
- Hands-Free Communication: VOX (voice-activated) or push-to-talk simplex modes for flexible operation
- Backlit Directory: Illuminated tenant identification for easier navigation during call routing
- All-Call Function: Broadcast communication between stations within the same tenant residence or office
- Option Button: Programmable control for external devices such as electronic locks or lighting
- Call Tone Volume Control: Adjustable audio levels with mute indicator for user convenience
- Expandable Architecture: Up to 3 additional tenant master stations and 15 tenant sub-stations can be added, supporting a full 1×4×16 system configuration
- Optional Extension Speaker: Call extension speaker available for enhanced coverage in larger spaces
- Complete Box Set: Includes all essential components—no additional transformer or power supply required for basic installation
Technical Specifications & Wiring Requirements
The DBS-1A operates on AC power ranging from 9.5 to 20V, with power distribution managed by the included supply unit. Wiring distances are critical for reliable operation:
- Entrance Station to Master Station: 2-conductor, low-capacitance PE insulation wire (Aiphone #871802); maximum 360 feet at 22 AWG or 1,020 feet at 18 AWG
- Master Station to Sub-Station: 4-conductor, low-capacitance PE insulation wire (Aiphone #871804); maximum 330 feet from master to farthest sub-station
- Between Sub-Stations: 4-conductor plus 2-conductor when sharing power (Aiphone #822206 or #871804)
- Power Supply to Entrance or Door Strike: 360 feet at 22 AWG or 1,020 feet at 18 AWG (cumulative distance)
- Power Supply to Master Station: 180 feet at 22 AWG or 510 feet at 18 AWG
Integration & Compatibility
The DBS-1A is the entry point to Aiphone's DB Series ecosystem. The system uses standard Aiphone interconnect cables and supports the addition of DA Series entrance stations (such as the DA-2DS 2-call or DA-4DS 4-call variants) and DB-1SD sub-master stations, permitting scalable deployments across multi-unit buildings or campus environments. All system components operate on the same low-voltage wiring backbone, simplifying installation and maintenance.
Package Contents
- DB-1MD Open Voice Master Station
- DA-1DS 1-Call Audio Door Station
- Power Supply Unit
Jerry TildsenPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Aiphone DBS-1A represents a straightforward choice for integrators deploying single-entrance audio intercom systems in small commercial or residential properties. As a pre-assembled kit, it eliminates procurement fragmentation and reduces on-site configuration errors. I've specified this system where clients need reliable voice-only tenant screening without video or advanced analytics—and where the building layout permits the relatively generous wire runs the platform supports.
Technical Highlights:
- VOX and Push-to-Talk Modes: The DBS-1A supports both hands-free and manual communication, accommodating different user preferences and accessibility requirements without software reconfiguration.
- Direct Door Release Integration: The entrance station powers the door strike directly; no external transformer or relay module is required for basic access control, reducing BoM cost and installation complexity.
- Scalable From Day One: The system ships complete and functional with one entrance, but the architecture supports up to 16 sub-stations and 4 master zones, making it suitable for phased expansions without replacing core infrastructure.
Deployment Considerations:
- Wire distance limits (180–1,020 feet depending on gauge and circuit) mandate early verification during site survey; buildings with long lobby-to-penthouse distances may require intermediate sub-stations or power injection points.
- The backlit directory is a practical touch for properties with frequent guest screening; ensure the master station is positioned where occupants can read caller information clearly.
- If external device control (such as gate locks or lighting) is planned, confirm the option button output voltage and relay ratings match your load requirements before design sign-off.
For single-entrance small to mid-size properties where audio intercom is sufficient, the DBS-1A delivers value and proven reliability. The box-set approach and native door release capability make it a low-risk specification for straightforward deployments.
