Security Systems and VOIP

What is VoIP?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels via the Internet. The advantage of VoIP is that consumers can potentially lower their costs for telephone communication.

Installation of VoIP hardware may disrupt the communication of the security system with the Central Station.

If you install VoIP or digital phone service, it is essential that you call Relyco Security at 770-253-4053 to determine whether a service call is necessary.There are alternative solutions that we offer and you may continue to have security as well as the benefits of VoIP. Please call our office to discuss your options.

If you are considering using VoIP or digital phone service, please be aware of the following:

• VoIP requires continuous power. If you lose power, you will not be able to use any phone connected to VoIP. More importantly, the security system will not send a signal to the Central Station.
• If you change your telephone number to take advantage of VoIP savings, it is important that you immediately advise Relyco so we may update your account with accurate information.
• If the Relyco alarm system has a line cut feature, it may NOT sound the alarm if the communication line on the outside of your premise is cut. The alarm panel checks the telephone line for voltage that is currently supplied by your telephone company. Certain characteristics of VoIP may lower the voltage and affect the security features of your alarm
• Relyco will lose the ability to download software changes to your alarm system (adding/deleting users, pass numbers, etc). A chargeable service call may be necessary to visit your premise to make these changes.
• Any changes or upgrades made to your VoIP service could impact the ability of the security system to transmit signals. You should always retest the system after any upgrades to your VoIP service.

Other issues with VoIP include:

• VoIP does not offer the same quality of service as direct telephony connections do. There are problems with connectivity, security, disability access, and emergency access.
• Many VoIP connections may not properly handle outgoing calls from fax machines, TiVO boxes, satellite television receivers, conventional modems or fax modems.
• These devices depend on conventional voice-grade telephone lines for some or all of their functionality.
• IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING OR HAVE MADE A SWITCH TO VoIP, PLEASE CONTACT Relyco.Again, there are alternative solutions to retain your security in addition to receiving the benefits of VoIP.