People nowadays are considering the discontinuation of their traditional phone lines in order to switch over to cellular or internet providers for their home security systems. Most importantly, one needs to know if these newer forms of communications can work with one's home alarm systems. People are considering the possibility of converting to Voice over IP (VoIP) and dropping their phone lines in total. Their main concern being if such a move would affect the functioning of their alarm systems. There are those who switch over without informing their alarm system provider. This will lead to serious problems as the alarm system will not operate during an emergency.
If one is considering dropping or changing the service provider, it is advisable to inform the alarm company about these changes. They would be able to recommend one on the alternatives available and ensure that the system keeps functioning. They would also be able to test the system after the switch over. Apart from the regular phone lines, the design of alarm systems is such that they can work with different types of communication devices. These may include cellular radio, VoIP and the internet. They all have their advantages and disadvantages.
One needs to understand the functioning of all the communications options available, before making a decision in having the right security system in ones homes.
*Phone lines: Systems using telephone lines are extremely reliable, though slower than the latest technologies. They are reliable because, in the event of a power failure, the phone line would still work as their power source is different.
*Cellular radio signals, on the other hand, utilises wireless digital transmission to transmit the signals to the monitoring station. Digital transmitters are able to convey much more information and more swiftly than the regular phone line. They are also tamper proof. The downside is that, cellular alarm systems require a power backup network at home in order to perform. This is usually a battery backup and, therefore, can only operate for short periods between two to four hours.
*VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is another option which is rapidly gaining in popularity as an ideal communication system. They have many redeeming features and are priced competitively. From the customer's, point of view, they may perform like a normal phone but, the technology used is quite different. Most systems will be able to connect to a VoIP phone system without any up gradation of hardware.
The internet can provide a variety of features for alarm users as it is always in the on connection with the system provider. The main drawback in these systems is that it requires power to function effectively. There is a new technology in the market today and called "wireless mesh-radio technology." This is a network of devices that combine to create an ultra reliable connection to the alarm central station.
The traditional phones lines, still offers the most reliable service when it comes to home security systems. Where it lacks when compared to the latest technologies, is in speed and the extra features that cellular and VoIP can provide. Adequate power backups at home will be able to provide one with the ultimate alarm system.
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