Although full cessation is still some time away, we’re actively approaching our customers to replace/upgrade affected systems with minimum disruption.
The Openreach PSTN cessation policy is already causing disruption to many alarm systems due to the withdrawal of new PSTN line installations. Our team is proactively reaching out to all our customers who are going to be affected – read on for what you need to know.
The PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) transmits voice calls and alarm signals using copper cables and the fundamental basics of the system haven’t changed for many years and are being phased out in the years up to 2025 when they will be switched off for good.
Unfortunately, PSTN no longer meets the demand for new technology, it fails to support data connections to the internet at fast speeds and is being replaced by fibre optic cabling using digital signalling as opposed to analogue.
If your alarm system signals via PSTN copper lines using either RedCare signalling or a digital communicator (digicom) we will need to upgrade your alarm systems signalling equipment. Some Emizon dual path systems may also be affected if they use a PTSN line as a secondary path for alarm signalling. But there are cost savings to be made.
Our service team will be proactively contacting all affected customers so we can advise and arrange your upgrade well in advance. But if you have not yet been contacted and would like more information please get in touch.
As all alarm systems differ in their signaling types the cost of upgrading will be dependant on your system’s configuration and age. Please contact our Customer service to find out what are your systems upgrade requirements and cost.
The cost of any upgrade will be offset by the cost savings made by eliminating an alarm line typical rental of £242.40 inc. vat per annum, and even more if you have BT TotalCare cover.
We achieve this cost saving by using an alternative signaling path, such as the internet (IP) or mobile phone service (GPRS) in your upgrade. We also do not plan to make any increase in your current annual maintenance charges which will remain the same.
