The Model Builder Intercom provides sound modeling features required for accurate Intercom Switching (ICS) and communication bus simulation. Intercoms provide the user with the capability to model objects such as communication bus, communications control panel logic, audio signal routing and logic, and instructor/trainer communications.

In addition, the purchase of a network intercom allows intercom buses on different DACS to be easily connected over an IP network. This allows a growth path for adding more operators to a system, and it allows operators in remote locations to communicate on an intercom bus.

Intercom is ideal for shipboard communication system simulation, where many party line, point-to-point communications buses, and priority bus structures exist. It is also useful for update programs where the user is replacing an existing analog system. Typically, these systems are bus structure oriented and existing host software is configured to drive this type of structure. Intercom provides the required objects to configure a model identical to the existing communications system hardware structure, preserving existing host software and virtually eliminating software modification costs.

Some of the main features of Intercoms include:

• Flexible voice switching for intercom between trainees and instructors
• Point-to-Point and Party Line/Communication bus structures
• Networked intercom communications
• Voice warning and warning tone simulation
• Bus and warning tone priority capabilities
• Communication control panel simulation
• Selectable full or half duplex operation
• Side Tone Generation and Control
• Press-to-Talk, Vox, Hot/Cold Mic, Volume Control
• Priority bus assignment and control

A communications control panel object is included for easy modeling of communication bus routing, switching, and mixing. Simulator communication panel switch states and volume settings are sent to the DACS directly without any logic manipulation by the host computer. Bus objects are placed in the model to simulate the local intercom and communication system bus structure. Addition of trainer specific communications, such as Instructor to Student and Instructor Private communications, can be added easily to the model, or ASTi can create a pre-configured intercom model for you at a minimal price.

See the links in the right-hand sidebar for more information about Model Builder's capabilities.