How Phone Lines Affect Security Systems

by Ralph R. Manento, Owner – Royal Security Services, Inc.

Discontinuing your phone service or changing it to another service provider without contacting your alarm provider may cause your alarm system not to function properly during an emergency situation. Because of the popular use of cell phones today, many people are contemplating the cancellation of their landlines. Do you still need a landline for an alarm system? Here are the basic things you should know to ensure your system works properly.

WHAT TO DO WHEN CHANGING YOUR PHONE SERVICE:

Make a minimum of two phone calls to your alarm company to ensure the correct functioning of your system. The first call should be to inform the alarm company of the pending change in telephone service. Depending upon their response, you should trip your alarm system to force a signal to be sent and you should verify that your alarm company received the alarm signal. If you do not receive a verification call from your alarm company, you should call them and advise them that your system is not communicating.

COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES THAT ARE AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH ALARM SYSTEMS:

The most popular methods include traditional phone lines, cellular radio, VoIP and internet monitoring.

THE MOST RELIABLE AND UNRELIABLE SYSTEMS FOR YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS:

Cellular radio communicators are the most reliable form of communication provided that you live in an area that has a strong, consistent signal and you maintain battery backups on the radio and your alarm system. Cellular transmissions are extremely difficult to interrupt and are impossible to detect by a burglar.

Traditional phone lines offer a very reliable service for alarm systems, though they lack the speed and additional features of newer technologies. Traditional phone lines are the most stable and most carriers have backup power at their switching stations that will allow your phone service to work in most cases even if your power is out. The weak link for traditional phone lines is that they are cut outside the building.

HOW TO BE SURE YOU’RE SYSTEM IS WORKING PROPERLY WITH YOUR CURRENT SERVICE:

Test your system monthly regardless of any change in phone service. This will help catch any problems that are undetected by the alarm system or monitoring company. Contact your monitoring company and follow their instructions for testing your system.

For more information on keeping your home or business secure, or contact us at 570-992-1500 or look at the Pleasant Valley Sports Reporter.