Comelit 1998NA Audio Porter Switchboard
Overview
The Comelit 1998NA is a PoE+-powered audio porter switchboard engineered for IP-based access control and intercom deployments where centralized audio signal management matters. Unlike standalone door stations, this device consolidates switchboard functionality into a networked architecture, allowing security integrators to route audio calls, verify visitors via 4MP video, and manage communication workflows across a single IP infrastructure. It operates on PoE+ (802.3at), eliminating the need for dedicated 12V or 24V power supplies and simplifying network deployment.
Key Features
- PoE+ Power (802.3at): Draws power exclusively from your network switch via a single Ethernet cable — no separate PSU, reduced wiring runs, and simplified future relocations. Standard PoE (802.3af) is insufficient; confirm your switch or injector supports PoE+ before deployment.
- 4MP Resolution: Provides 2560 × 1920 pixel imagery, sharp enough for facial recognition and visitor documentation in good light. At 4MP, this sits between typical 2MP door cameras and high-end 5MP surveillance — adequate for entrance verification without excessive bandwidth or storage overhead.
- Day/Night IR Capability: Built-in infrared illumination supports 24/7 operation in unlit lobbies, stairwells, or loading docks. IR range depends on lens design; verify specific distance from the manufacturer before final site selection, especially if deploying in very dark vestibules.
- ONVIF Compatibility: Integrates with any standards-based network video management system — Milestone XProtect, Genetec Security Center, or equivalent — rather than locking you into proprietary Comelit software. This flexibility simplifies multi-vendor deployments and future system upgrades.
- Switchboard Functionality: Centralizes audio routing, call distribution, and intercom workflows in one IP-addressable device. Reduces the need for separate analog switchboards or legacy PBX tie-ins, lowering total system cost and maintenance burden.
- Indoor Deployment: Designed for controlled interior environments — lobbies, reception areas, security offices. Not rated for outdoor weathering; if you need exterior audio monitoring, consider an outdoor intercom station rated IP66 or higher.
Integration and Compatibility
The 1998NA connects to any network video management platform that supports ONVIF Profile S or higher, including Comelit's own IP ecosystem. On the power side, confirm your PoE switch or injector supplies at least 30W per port (802.3at minimum); if your switch is oversubscribed or uses legacy 802.3af, the device may not boot reliably. In mixed Comelit and third-party setups, test audio codec negotiation early — IP phones and intercoms sometimes disagree on G.711, G.726, or OPUS, causing one-way audio. For warehouse or factory intercom networks, this device works well alongside IP intercom stations and door controllers.
Deployment Considerations
Audio switchboards in IP environments depend heavily on network prioritization. If your site lacks VLAN segmentation or QoS policies, intercoms can drop during congestion — not acceptable for emergency or visitor-facing communication. Deploy the 1998NA on a dedicated or low-latency VLAN with prioritized traffic rules. Indoor mounting typically means wall or desk placement in a secure room; ensure physical tamper protection if the switchboard is accessible to visitors or contractors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Comelit 1998NA require a separate power supply?
A: No. It operates exclusively on PoE+ (802.3at) delivered over the Ethernet cable. Your network switch or PoE injector must support PoE+; standard PoE (802.3af) will not provide sufficient power.
Q: What video management systems support the 1998NA?
A: Any ONVIF-compliant platform — Milestone XProtect, Genetec, etc. — can integrate the device. Comelit's own IP system also supports it natively. Confirm ONVIF Profile S compatibility with your VMS vendor before purchase.
Q: Can I use the 1998NA outdoors?
A: No. This is an indoor-only device. Outdoor deployments require an IP66-rated intercom or door station with weatherproof housing.
Q: What audio codecs does the 1998NA support?
A: The evidence does not specify supported audio codecs. Verify with Comelit technical support or the device datasheet before final integration, especially if your VMS or IP phone system uses non-standard codecs.
Q: Does the 1998NA have two-way audio?
A: The evidence confirms it is an audio switchboard with intercom capability, implying two-way communication, but specific audio I/O details (speaker output, microphone input, amplification) are not detailed. Confirm audio specifications with the manufacturer.
Q: What is the warranty on the Comelit 1998NA?
A: Warranty information is not provided in the current product evidence. Contact the manufacturer or your distributor for warranty terms and support options.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Comelit 1998NA brings IP-native switchboard control to environments where analog intercom systems are being phased out. Its PoE+ power model cuts installation time significantly — no dedicated power runs — and the 4MP day/night capability gives you visitor documentation that stands up in access-control audits. For integrators consolidating legacy intercoms into modern network architecture, this is a smart choice.
Technical Highlights:
- PoE+ (802.3at) Power: Single Ethernet connection eliminates PSU infrastructure, reduces panel real estate, and simplifies future maintenance. Budget ~30W per port on your switch to avoid power conflicts.
- 4MP Resolution (2560 × 1920): Sufficient for facial recognition in typical lobby lighting, sits between entry-level 2MP and premium 5MP — reduces bandwidth and storage cost versus higher-res alternatives without sacrificing detail.
- ONVIF Profile S Integration: Not locked to Comelit software; pairs with Milestone, Genetec, or any standards-based VMS. Simplifies multi-vendor deployments and reduces long-term vendor lock-in risk.
Deployment Considerations:
- Confirm PoE+ availability before specifying — many older or budget switches only deliver 802.3af (15W), insufficient for this device. A single miscalculation here causes on-site power negotiation failures.
- Audio quality depends on VLAN prioritization and QoS rules. Without traffic segmentation, congestion during peak hours can degrade intercom clarity. Deploy on a dedicated or low-latency VLAN.
- Indoor-only rating means physical placement in secure rooms or protected vestibules. If exterior or weather-exposed mounting is needed, look at IP66-rated door intercoms instead.
The 1998NA is best suited for access-control-forward sites upgrading from analog switchboards — corporate lobbies, healthcare facilities, secure entrances — where network infrastructure is mature and VLAN discipline is already enforced. If your site still runs flat networks or lacks QoS policy, invest in network upgrades before deploying IP intercoms.
