Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 3010 intercoms different from others on the market?

The Firecom 3010 series takes apparatus intercom systems to the next level by offering automatic squelch, enhanced noise reduction circuitry, touch pad adjustable volume utilizing membrane switching and LED volume indicators.

The enhanced noise reduction is achieved by utilizing automatically controlled dynamic range expanding preamplifiers at each headset, which controls the audio input for the intercom and radio. By utilizing the expanding preamplifiers, excess noise from unused microphones is eliminated, resulting is less unwanted noise and better clarity in high noise environments.

What does “automatic squelch” mean?

Traditional voice activated microphones (VOX) require manual “squelch” adjustment to function properly. If the squelch is adjusted too low, the microphone will be activated by almost any sound; if it is adjusted too high, it will not pick up any sound at all. Improper adjustment of the squelch can result in frustration for the user, as they will not be able to use the system as intended.

With “automatic squelch”, a Firecom exclusive, the microphone sensitivity is automatically adjusted to the optimal setting, eliminating the need for manual adjustment. This eliminates the frustration of a mis-adjusted system, and allows for much better radio and in-cab communications.

Are the microphones voice activated?

Firecom uses an advanced system that utilizes open microphones with noise gates. This system eliminates voice clipping that is typical with voice activated microphones (VOX).

Why does Firecom mount the radio transmit button on the headset?

Regardless of where you are or what you are doing on the apparatus, the radio transmit button is always where you can find it, right next to your ear on the headset. There is no need to search for a remote push to talk switch or climb back in the cab to talk on the radio.

How do I adjust the volume?

The Firecom 3010 system has touch pad style volume controls mounted on the face of the intercom, along with LED volume indicators. In addition to the system volume, each headset is equipped with individual volume controls.

What is Digital Message Recording and how does it work?

Digital Message Recording offers the ability to record up to 32 seconds of radio transmission. The 3015 and 3025 intercoms use a continuous loop digital recorder that is continually recording, enabling you to save the most recent inbound radio traffic.

What is the Remote Head?

The remote head is a “slave” of the intercom faceplate that can be located anywhere inside the vehicle. All controls, such as volume and radio selector, that are found on the intercom box will be duplicated on the remote head. The remote head is typically mounted flush on the radio console or in the OEM overhead console, reducing the clutter of the dashboard.

An optional adjustable mounting bracket is available if the customer desires to mount the remote head on top of the dashboard or on the ceiling.

Where do we mount the intercom box if we are using a remote head?

The main intercom box can be mounted anywhere inside the vehicle, such as behind the officers seat in a custom cab, behind the bench seat in a commercial cab or in the vertical cabinet of an ambulance.

How is the remote head connected to the main intercom box?

The remote head is connected to the main intercom box with a single, six wire CA cable. This is the same type cable used to connect the headset modules to the intercom box.

How many remote heads can be installed?

The 3010R series intercoms have provisions for two remote heads.

What is so good about modular connections?

The use of modular plugs creates a system that is easy to install and simple to add components. The connectors do not require any soldering and can be installed with a simple hand operated crimping tool. The RJ-12 style connectors simply snap into the headset modules, and can easily be disconnected if required.

Will the modular plugs break off?

While it is possible to break an RJ-12 connector, its occurrence is exceptionally low. Failure of a soldered joint is much more likely. Crimped modular plugs are superior to soldered connections for their durability in a high vibration environment. Once locked in place, they do not break off.

Do I need to know how long of cables I need when I order the system?

All Firecom intercom systems are shipped with a bulk roll of communication cable. By using modular plugs that you install, the cable can be run as required and cut to the proper length, eliminating the need for pre-made cables.

How do I know how many headsets I will need?

This is determined by how many people will be riding in the vehicle on a regular basis. Typically, one headset is installed for each seating position. Some fire departments order additional headsets for use at the pump panel on a pumper, or at the turntable and ladder tip on an aerial.

How are the different styles of headsets used?

What seating positions can transmit on the radio?

With a Firecom system, transmit capability is determined by the headset and not the position. A transmit headset can be plugged in at any position, regardless of where it is. Intercom only headsets will not transmit on the radio at any position.

What happens when people are talking on the intercom and the officer needs to talk on the radio?

The Firecom intercom allows for simultaneous radio transmit and intercom communications without the concern of intercom conversation being transmitted over the air.

Are the intercom-only positions voice activated?

The most common headset for intercom only use requires the user to push a button to talk. We do offer one headset that has an on-off switch that opens the microphone for continuous intercom communications. Neither headset will transmit on the radio.

Can I hook up more than one radio to the intercom?

Yes, two radios can be hooked up to a 3020 or 3025 intercom. Additional radios can be added to the system, but require additional components.

Can we hook up our cell phone to the system?

Yes, a cell phone can be used with a Firecom intercom system if it has hands free capabilities, which means an external speaker and microphone. A cell phone is integrated into the system as an additional radio and requires a dual radio intercom. Our intercoms can be modified for full duplex operation, allowing the user to talk on the phone without pushing the transmit button.

How many seating positions can I hook up?

Firecom systems come standard with direct connections for up to six seating positions. Additional positions can be added through daisy chaining. (See the operator’s manual or contact Firecom for more information on daisy chaining).

Can I add more positions after the system is installed?

Yes, it is simply a matter of installing an additional interior or exterior headset module and running the cable. No additional intercom boxes are required.

Do you have systems for smaller vehicles?

Yes, Firecom offers systems for one or two people. These systems work well in water tenders, brush engines, ambulances and command vehicles, or any vehicle requiring hearing protection or enhanced communications.

Can I hook up a headset to my portable radio?

Yes, Firecom offers both handheld interfaces (which allows you to use your apparatus headset with a portable radio) and direct wire headsets (headsets are attached directly to the portable radio).

Do you have a connection for my particular mobile radio?

In most cases, yes. Firecom offers custom made interface cables for most of the popular radios. All our intercoms come with a generic cable that can be wired to a radio if we do not have a custom cable available.

Can we install the Firecom system or does it need to go to a radio shop?

Our systems are easy to install and can be installed with simple hand tools and the Firecom crimp tool. Most installations utilize a pre-made interface cable, however some radios, typically older models, must be hard wired to the intercom, which will most likely require the services of a radio technician.

To ensure peak performance of the intercom system, final adjustments of transmit and receive audio levels will also require the skills of a trained radio technician.

Can the system be installed at the factory when our truck is being built?

Yes, we work with all the major apparatus builders. As a matter of fact, most builders prefer our products over other intercom systems because of the ease of installation and serviceability.

Can we put a headset at the tip of our aerial or in the bucket of our tower?

Yes. Our standard exterior headset module can be installed at the tip of an aerial or in the bucket of a ladder tower. The preferred method to wire the module is through the collector rings at the base of the ladder. Firecom offers a collector ring interface kit that makes the installation of our system much easier than other systems.

What is the decibel reduction with a Firecom headset?

Firecom dual muff headsets reduce the ambient noise by 24 dB, which meets NFPA, OSHA and CALOSHA standards.

Does the NFPA have guidelines for hearing protection?

Yes, NFPA 1500 recommends the use of hearing protection by firefighters riding in or working around fire apparatus with an excess of 90dBA, which is approximately the noise of a hair dryer or lawn mower.

Are the headsets adjustable for size?

Yes. Under-helmet style headsets have an adjustable cloth band with Velcro to adjust for different size heads. The fitted headsets have an adjustable metal strap.

Do you have a system to install in our ambulance?

Yes, we can design a system to accommodate the unique requirements of an ambulance, whether you have just one radio or a combination of radios and cell phones.

Can our medics talk on one radio in the back while the driver is talking on another up front?

Yes, Firecom systems can be configured to allow multiple radios to transmit at the same time.

If we have problems with our intercom, who can fix it?

If it is determined that there is a problem with the intercom and not an installation issue, we recommend the equipment be returned to Firecom for repair. Our customer service staff will assist you with repair or replacement of your intercom and components.

What is the warranty on the Firecom system?

Firecom intercoms and headsets come with a two-year warranty, which is unmatched in the intercom industry. In addition, Firecom will honor the warranty on our products regardless of who performs the installation.

Can we listen to music in our headsets?

Yes, Firecom intercoms are equipped with an auxiliary input for stereos or scanners, as well as an auxiliary output that can be connected to a micro-cassette.

Where do we buy a Firecom intercom system?

Firecom has a network of dealers and resellers located throughout the country. Contact Firecom to locate a dealer in your area or view our Sales Team map.