Racing Intercoms

Generation II | Generation I

Generation II Racing Intercom

The device is a 12 volt DC powered, multi-input, audio amplifier specifically designed for in vehicle motorsports applications. It may be operated as a stand-alone device, or, with the interconnection of a two-way radio, and/or, entertainment radios or stereo audio source. An output is also provided to supply the composite audio from the intercom to a video or audio recorder. The intercom delivers the audio via cables that are hard wired into a 25 pin female connector which interfaces the intercom.

Various configurations of the device are available by utilizing different 25 pin connection harnesses enabling different options. These cables provide input/output leads to connect to the helmets or headsets worn by the occupants of the vehicle (up to four). These terminate in special 4 conductor, cable mounted jacks that are military aircraft in nature. In the standard, two person configuration, there are two such leads, one for the driver, and one for the co-driver. They are 15 feet long. In addition, there is one pair of wires corresponding to each of these leads to key the two way radio transmitter when a normally open, momentary contact, SPST switch is closed. Releasing either of these switches shuts off the transmitter, and returns the intercom to normal operation. During the transmit phase the led on the intercom changes color from green to yellow, and a red led will light on the two way radio.

Power is supplied to the unit via the 5 foot long, wire pig tail. The red wire should be connected to a positive 12 volt DC source, and the black lead to the appropriate ground point supplying a 12 volt DC negative source. It is very important to make these connections directly to the battery, or as close to it as possible. This is to reduce 12 volt borne interferences and alternator noises. The battery serves as a giant capacitor, and connecting both the radio, stereo, and intercom directly to it will minimize these noises.

The system is pre-wired for use of an optional Comp Comm two way radio. This radio may be programmed by us with up to 24 VHF FM channels of the users choice, including Marine, business, and special racing frequencies. See the two way radio page for details. If such a radio is to be used (it may be added into the system later) the user merely connects the 8 conductor RJ45 into the specially modified radios' front panel jack, and plugs the mini plug into the speaker output jack on the rear panel of the radio. The radio receive audio is now available at all helmet/headset locations in the system, and the microphone audio from either the driver or co-driver helmet/headsets are placed onto the transmitted signal from the radio when the corresponding push-to-talk button is pushed. The volume control on the face of the radio then controls the level of the receive audio heard in the system.

If desired, source information from an entertainment radio, or stereo may be connected to the audio input leads. The information will be distributed in monaural mode even if it is delivered in stereo. Again, the listening volume is controlled by the volume control on the entertainment source device. This connection is made to wires coming from the 25 pin connector. 

A line level output of the composite audio of the system is available at the RCA type phono plug in the harness. This lead would be connected to the audio input jack on a video, audio, or camcorder. (see diagram on the installation instructions page for all connections)

If the system is to include more than four helmet/headsets then an optional expansion module is required. Its' cable plugs into the small, cylindrical metal connector, and then the additional users will plug their helmets/headsets into this unit.

Key to the success of this system is the use of military aircraft, dynamic noise cancelling microphones. The system will work only when used with helmets or headsets utilizing this type of microphone. Comp Comm will set up your own racing helmet by installing such a microphone in it, and installing special speakers into the lining of the helmet to enable the user to hear. In addition, a jack is installed on the outside of the helmet, enabling the user to plug earmolds in. These devices are tiny transducers that you insert directly into your ears, reducing outside noises and improving concentration, reducing fatigue, and greatly improving communication. This option can be added at any time.

If you are not in a racing environment, then the features of the system can be enjoyed by the use of a special headset, (see headset page) featuring the microphone and earphones described above. These will readily deliver the communications to non-helmet riders. There are two models available. The Pit Star features a behind-the-head tension band and an over the head, adjustable velcro strap. This permits wearing a cap over the headset. The Classic model uses the more standard aviation type over the head tension band. both units are supplied in red high impact plastic with fully articulated three piece mic booms, and military aircraft dynamic noise cancelling microphones, the same as used in our famous racing helmets (see helmet page) . Both types come with gelatin filled ear seals and cloth covers providing superior ear sealing for operation in high noise environments, and result in greater comfort for the wearer..

As the name implies, this is truly a second generation device. It reflects the evolution of our one-quarter century of providing communications products and services exclusively to the world wide motorsports and racing community. Poker run or endurance racing, put our experience to work on your team.

Generation II Intercom, with wiring harness for two men - $595, for three men $695, four men $795, five men $895

Six man unit $1,095

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Generation I Racing Intercom

Ever since we first introduced this unit to the racing world over ten years ago it has been the standard of excellence for motorsports in-race-vehicle audio communications. Capable of supporting up to five users, plus a two way radio interface and options for recorder audio line output and entertainment radio input to has great flexibility.

The helmet/headset cables terminate in the box itself, thereby reducing the number of connectors and solder joints required. This serves to make it the most rugged unit ever to be offered. Simplicity and pure racing was the keynote, and the unit doesn’t even have an on-off switch as it was designed for pure racing applications. The users are ganged onto the two volume controls, and the push-to-talk buttons turn the transmitter on, connecting the driver or co-driver to the transmitter (depending on which button is pushed) while turning the intercom off to reduce the possibilities of interference while transmitting.

Check for availability

Generation I, (if available)  2 man unit $595, add an additional $100 per station for up to five users.

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