No More Phone Lines?!

In a recent article in the Security Systems News (security trade magazine) we find that AT&T filed a comment with the FCC that, among other things, explicitly called for the phasing out of public switched telephone network (PSTN) lines. So what does that mean to you?

Just about every security & fire alarm system in the country requires this connection to transmit signals to central station to summons the police or fire department that there is an emergency at your premise. It’s the old fashion telephone line.

It’s estimated that over 25% of households do not have a telephone line. The younger generation clearly uses the advancements in technology. They use their cell phones and VOIP (voice over IP) to communicate to the world.

Once the FCC allows the phone companies to stop providing PSTN lines they will be phased out. Ok, no problem. We can all use our cell phones and the internet to make phone calls right? Absolutely, but it presents two problems.

The cable companies, and FIOS, both state that alarm systems may not operate properly on their networks and you should consider using PSTN or other technology. The problem with VOIP is they use data packets (software) to simulate a phone call. It’s designed for voice not data. This can cause a failure on your security system to communicate when there is an emergency. Then there is the problem of power outages. The modem supplied needs power. The old PSTN supplied its own power. So if the power goes out and you have not installed a UPS back up battery, your communication is completely dead.

Another issue is the possibility of your line of communication being cut on the outside of your premise. This was the case with PSTN & VOIP. A simple cut with a pair of scissors and your system is once again defeated. You only need to read the newspaper to see this being done all the time.

So, how do we work around this? Simple, there is a fairly new technology that has become very affordable called Control Channel Cellular. This uses the cell towers control channels to send the alarm system’s signals to central station. No chance of lines being cut and no worry about power failures due to the system using its own back up battery source.

Newer systems interface with this technology seamlessly. Older systems can be adapted to work. You should contact Garden State Alarm to weigh out your options. Switching over now removes all the obstacles and secures your premise for the future.