snom technology AG, a developer and manufacturer of advanced voice over IP phones for enterprise and residential markets, has announced the availability of a new public announcement device, the snom PA1, which enables the use of snom business VoIP phones or any other SIP-based VoIP telephones as an extension of the public address system. The PA1 also reduces the CAPEX costs of state-of-the-art communications systems as it interoperates with existing VoIP and public addressing infrastructure, preserving existing investments while adding new functionality, the company said.

The snom PA1 is an audio control system that augments the SIP-based PBX and is ideal for broadcasting announcements or playing background music everywhere from reception areas and shopping malls to airports and hospitals. The PA1 combines the features and functions of a snom IP telephone with a high-performance digital amplifier to broadcast announcements and messages quickly and effectively.

The PA1 also protects existing investment by integrating with all SIP-based VoIP telephones and business IP PBX platforms. It also works with a business’s installed public address loud-speakers, ultimately cutting down the cost of a full-fledged SIP- based public announcement system.

To make an announcement using the snom PA1, a user simply initiates a call to the PA1 from any SIP-based VoIP telephone using the handset, a headset or via the hands-free mode. Once the call is connected, the user can make an announcement. Each PA1 is designed to drive one 8-ohm speaker. A 4-Watt amplifier ensures enough coverage to blanket the entire room or space with sound.

Additionally, several snom PA1 units can be interconnected via a built-in switch and can be connected to any loudspeaker on the market. It can be powered by a conventional power supply or through a Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection and the devices can be centrally configured via a Web interface. Like other snom devices, updates and configuration changes for the PA1 can be performed centrally on the server.

Along with the ability to broadcast announcements using SIP, the snom PA1 can be addressed using multicast, meaning one transmitter can address many receivers.

The device also features two 3.5 mm jacks for a headset connection, four freely programmable output pins to control the PA1 via the Web interface and two LED status indicators. Additional features include remote volume configuration and housing for wall or ceiling mounting.

The snom PA1 is available now for a list price of $169.