Transitioning your building from plain old telephone service (POTS) to a more efficient, modern, and up-to-code solution can help lower operating costs while improving day-to-day functionality. The POTS replacement process may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be when you’ve prepared correctly.
Below, our team from ELEVATE Monitoring discusses five key tips for upgrading your traditional landline service to cellular. When you’re ready to replace your copper wire telephony with an advanced cellular elevator phone, give us a call.
1. Assess Your Current Infrastructure
Before upgrading your public switched telephone network (PSTN), you need to assess your infrastructure to better understand what type of system will fit your needs. We recommend thinking about the following:
- The pros and cons of your current analog telephone system
- Your infrastructure’s remaining lifespan
- Your current bandwidth usage
- Any issues you’re experiencing with fixed-line communication
2. Plan Your Communication Needs First
Now that you’ve analyzed your infrastructure, you can map out your communication needs. To find the right tech, we recommend considering the following:
- The number of lines you need: Lines might include your fire alarms, elevators, doors, security alarms, etc.
- The required locations: Do you need to install systems in one building or across multiple ones? Do your buildings have a 66 block?
- Your power locations: Do you already have power mounted near your units, and what’s the wattage level? Modern systems typically require more wattage than the legacy phone network.
- Your installation timeframe: Do you need to replace your system immediately, or can you wait a few weeks for a standard appointment?
3. Pick a Proficient Partner
The partner you choose to guide you through your POTS replacement can make all the difference. You need an experienced vendor to streamline the process.
When comparing providers, we recommend considering field experience, industry expertise, client reviews, customer support, and assistance timelines.
4. Calculate Your Return on Investment
The POTS replacement process can require significant upfront costs. You should carefully consider your finances in advance to ensure that you’re making a worthwhile investment.
You can calculate your ROI by starting with your initial investment and then subtracting your potential cost savings down the line. You may save money on utility bills, efficiency improvements, and more. This calculation can help you see how long it will take to get in the green.
5. Choose the Right Replacement Tech
After thoughtful planning, you can select the right technology that meets your building’s budget and needs. When selecting your service provider and tech suite, we recommend considering the following:
- Compatibility with ASME Elevator Code
- Security features against data threats
- The scalability potential
- Battery backup standby hours
- Cellular data capabilities
- Maximum line capabilities
- The warranty period
Be sure that anything you adopt can work with your existing hardware or software. Your provider should be able to help you configure and test the new tech.
Upgrade Your Building With ELEVATE Monitoring
Keep your hydraulic or traction elevator up to the latest code requirements by scheduling your affordable POTS replacement. Call ELEVATE Monitoring today at 877-990-9191.
