We have a client that is remodeling a kitchen and wants to upgrade her NuTone "main unit" Nutone IM-4006 but keep the receiving units in the rooms. She likes the intercom functionality and doesn't want to make any changes to the system functionality (other than no cassette and a relatively more attractive interface).

I really dont get in to this but want to help.

I see some replacements online but wanted to see what you PROS are using.

TIA

Corey


[Link: nutone.com]

First step is to determine the cable type coming from the stations, how many conductors in each cable and whether or not they are all home run to the main unit in the kitchen.

If you have enough conductors and they are all home run to the main unit you can swap out for other brands such as M&S.

Last year we were in the same position as you...already on the job doing a bunch of other work and the intercom replacement question came up. We ripped out all of the old stuff and replaced with the current M&S unit that has the tuner and iPod dock. Replaced door intercom unit for the correct one and then replaced all the room stations for the smaller more attractive ones. It turned out great and they use it every day. Definitely not something I'd spec on a new job but since the system and cabling was already in place and they didn't want to retro all new or do a phone system it made the most sense. Not bad margin and labor on the whole deal either. I'd do it again no problem if the situation presented itself. If you are lucky enough to have CAT5 (doubt it) that opens up even more options for you.

What he said. Two wires probably? Four?

A boat anchor?

The boat anchor and tweeterguy's solution won't keep THE receiving units in the rooms, but at least tweeterguy's will put SOME receiving units in the rooms. A boat anchor would also probably stick out of the wall at an unattractive angle.

The 4006-4406 need the Nutone 6 conductor ribbon wire or 6 conductor of some sort.  When I was installing them, (20 years ago LOL).  I always used the ribbon wire.  That doesn't mean that your particular system did.  It might be CAT3.  I saw that used a bunch. 

They all have to be home run back to the Master.

I'd really sit down and ask her what she's using it for.  I run into this situation quite a bit.  100% of the time, I bring in the drywallers and install a new system and make the Nuton go away.  

I'll put a camera in the doorbell unit, and music throughout the home.  Everyone's happy. 

What would you use to replace the intercom?

This client is not a candidate for a phone system. They weren't even interested in an mx880 for the media room.

From Linear: The NuTone IM-4006 is a 6-wire system. The replacement Master unit is the DMC1, and you will want the related room/patio stations as well.
Please let me know if you'd like to speak about the replacement items in more detail. I'd be happy to help out. Larry: [email protected]

:)

I need to move the location of my NuTone MI 4006 base unit. But do not have any slack in the 6 point ribbon cable. I need no move the unit by just 1 feet. How do I extend the ribbon cable? Where can I get extenders?

Thanks for the help

Buy a spool of 6 conductor cable of same gauge...then it's time to solder and heat shrink.

Thanks. The last i soldered was during under graduate studies, 20 years ago. I am hoping i can get the same results with electrical tape.

Asks for pro advice - gets pro advice - geek squads all over himself

That's a horrible idea. Electrical tape is not a permanent solution here. And I'm guessing you need a permanent solution since you are moving the main intercom unit and will then be finishing off the wall where it used to be. Good luck taping those dozens of wires. And, what do you intend to do with the transformer? That's high voltage coming in. Taping that too? Hire a pro or do it the proper and up to code way.

Do you happen to know the gauge of that cable?