📞 How to use Japanese Intercom – Saki Corporation

Most Japanese apartments and houses are equipped with an intercom system (ドアホン / doa-hon) for communication between your door and living area.
This system may also include video, recording, and unlocking features depending on the model.
This guide explains how to use, common functions, and what to do if your intercom stops working.

🏠 1. Basic Types of Japanese Intercoms

Type	Japanese Name	Features
Audio only	音声ドアホン	Voice communication only
Video intercom	テレビドアホン	Includes camera and monitor screen
Intercom with door unlock	オートロック付きドアホン	Allows unlocking the main entrance
Wireless intercom	ワイヤレスドアホン	Portable or battery-powered handsets

💡 The most common brand in Okinawa properties is Panasonic or Aiphone (アイホン).
If unsure, check the brand name on the device or near the screen.

🎥 2. How to Use the Intercom

*Example of video intercom display (Source: Panasonic)*

🔹 When a Visitor Arrives

The intercom will ring or chime (ピンポーン) when someone presses the button at your entrance.
On the main indoor unit, you’ll see the visitor’s image (if video intercom).
Press the 通話 (つうわ / Talk) button to speak with them.
Press the 終了 (しゅうりょう / End) or 切 (きり / Off) button to end the call.

💡 Some models automatically record a photo or short clip when the visitor rings.

🔹 To Unlock the Door (If Auto-Lock System)

*Example of video intercom with auto-lock system (Source: TJL)*

Press the 解錠 (かいじょう / Unlock) button on the screen or panel.
Wait a few seconds — you may hear a click before the main door unlocks.

⚠️ Only use the unlock button if you know the visitor.

🔹 To Adjust Volume or Screen

Use the 音量 (おんりょう / Volume) buttons to make the chime louder or softer.
For brightness or contrast, use 明るさ (あかるさ) settings if your model includes it.

🔋 3. Troubleshooting When the Intercom Is Not Working

If your intercom screen or sound stops working, follow these steps:

🔹 Step 1: Check the Power Source

Most intercoms are connected to the wall outlet or directly to house wiring.
Ensure the breaker is ON and the outlet is working.
If your intercom has a plug adapter, make sure it’s securely inserted.

💡 Test the outlet by plugging in another device (like a phone charger).

🔹 Step 2: For Battery-Powered Models

Some wireless intercoms or sub-monitors run on AA batteries or rechargeable lithium packs.

Open the battery cover at the back.
Replace all batteries with new ones of the same type.
Reinsert firmly and wait a few seconds for the system to reboot.

⚠️ Weak batteries often cause the screen to flicker or sound to fade.
We recommend using Panasonic Eneloop or Duracell alkaline batteries.

🔹 Step 3: Check the Cables or Mount

For wall-mounted systems, ensure the cable connectors between monitor and door unit are tight.
For door cameras, clean the lens gently with a soft cloth.
If recently painted or cleaned, make sure no water entered the outdoor speaker.

💡 Heavy rain or typhoons can cause temporary disconnection; it usually restores automatically when dry.

🔹 Step 4: No Power or Screen Still Black

If the intercom still doesn’t turn on after checking power and batteries:

Check the breaker panel for any tripped switch labeled “インターホン” or “通信機器”.
If it’s on but the screen remains dark → contact Saki Corporation for inspection.

📧 Submit your maintenance request here

🧰 4. Common Issues and Fixes

Issue	Possible Cause	What to Do
No sound when visitor rings	Low volume or speaker dust	Adjust volume / clean unit
Screen not showing	Power disconnected or dead battery	Check power / replace battery
Cannot hear visitor	Faulty button or connection	Restart / contact maintenance
Cannot unlock door	Auto-lock system malfunction	Contact building management
Beeping sound	Low battery or system alert	Replace batteries

💡 If the intercom suddenly beeps every few seconds, it usually means battery replacement is needed.

🧾 5. Tenant Responsibility

Maintenance Item	Responsibility	Notes
Replace batteries in wireless intercom	Tenant	Use same size and type
Cleaning screen and speaker	Tenant	Wipe gently with dry cloth
Reconnecting power plug	Tenant	Ensure securely connected
Internal wiring / system fault	Management	Contact Saki Corporation

💡 Battery replacement and regular cleaning are part of tenant responsibility.
If you’d like Saki Corporation to replace the battery for you, a service fee will apply for dispatch and labor.

📅🚨 6. When to Contact Saki Corporation

Please contact us if:

The screen remains black even after replacing batteries.
You cannot hear or speak through the intercom.
The outdoor intercom or camera is physically damaged.
The unit emits continuous beeping or error message.