Benefits of Replacing Your POTS Line

Previously viewed only as a functional way to move large items, elevators are now widely accepted as the safest form of transportation. But like any other machine, elevators have adapted and changed with the course of time. Their features have evolved to reflect the digital age that we live in. Modern engineering has allowed for technology like destination dispatch or elevator phones connected through the internet.

Though certain aspects of ASME code can vary by state, all elevators in North America are required by law to have a telephone in case of an emergency. This phone can be used to contact a dispatcher who will talk to the passenger while quickly sending help to their location. It’s of the utmost importance that this phone is dependable. Looking at the evolution of elevator phones, we know that there is more than one option for ensured reliability.

What Are the Benefits of Replacing My POTS Line?

The standard plain old telephone service, or POTS, line that most elevators operate on is quickly becoming outdated. This technology has been used since the dawn of elevator phones, so it only makes sense that it should eventually be replaced with a contemporary system.

In fact, telecommunication providers are raising the rates of their services for building owners who still utilize POTS in their elevators. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, POTS lines have seen about a 20% increase in the last 10 years.

This significant monthly cost increase has continued to climb while the technology reaches over 100 years in age, but this increase is caused by the relatively difficult upkeep of POTS lines.

Alternative Options to POTS

There are a couple of different options for building owners and managers that are making the choice to finally replace their POTS line.

1. VoIP – This stands for Voice-over-Internet Protocol, which provides a stable and constant connection for elevator phones through the internet.

2. Cellular – These phones work through a cellular transceiver outside of the elevator hoistway with copper wiring connected to the elevator cab.

Both are reliable alternatives, but VoIP has been gaining significant notoriety as it offers a lower monthly cost and can provide access to other features depending on the company and package.

Benefits of VoIP

Perhaps the biggest benefit for replacing your POTS Line with VoIP is the remarkable reduction in monthly costs that you’ll see. This price is not only much lower on average, but it also is fixed. This means that you will have more money in your pocket at the end of the month to put back into other areas of the building. If cost wasn’t enough of an advantage to switching to VoIP, there is also the convenience of keeping track of your elevator’s activity.

Since VoIP works through the internet, it can allow for consistent monitoring of your elevator. Once you switch from your POTS line to technology like MAX Link, you’ll be able to utilize digital services that improve building management. Benefits like tracking your elevator and getting real-time updates help to maximize your uptime and keep tenants happy. Not only will you have a trustworthy elevator phone, but you’re also getting a data-driven system to prevent downtime. This type of up-to-date technology comes in handy and ensures reliability.

VoIP and Code Updates

VoIP elevator phones are completely code compliant, and updating now could help you pre-empt future code requirements. The latest updates in the ASME building codes required additional visual support for two-way communication between a responder and the elevator cab. If there is no response to attempted vocal communication, a visual display in the cab is enabled to allow the operator and passenger to communicate using text.

If there is still no response from the passenger, the responder can turn on a camera in the cab to see if there is a passenger inside. This is a positive change that will provide additional communication options for passengers in emergency situations.

Many states are already making this mandatory, and a system like VoIP allows for this to become a reality.

If you’d like to learn more about MAX Digital Services or getting rid of your POTS line, please contact your local branch manager.