POTS over LTE: Business Communication Simplified

For companies that are big or small still relying on POTS lines for critical life safety communications, the time to retire these antiquated systems in favor of new technology like cellular-based alternatives is fast approaching.The FCC is no longer requiring carriers to support traditional copper phone lines, and carriers must fully transition to an alternative service soon. Thankfully, there are alternatives to POTS that are effective and reliable.

POTS stands for "Plain Old Telephone Service," which is a term used to describe traditional telephone service that uses analog signals to transmit voice over copper wires. POTS is a type of circuit-switched telephone service, which means that a dedicated connection is established between the caller and the recipient for the duration of the call.

LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution" and is a type of wireless communication technology used by cellular networks to provide high-speed data services. LTE is a packet-switched technology, which means that it transmits data in small packets over a shared network.

It is possible to use POTS over LTE by using a device known as a POTS-to-LTE gateway, which converts analog signals from a POTS telephone into digital signals that can be transmitted over an LTE network. This allows users to make and receive phone calls using a traditional telephone even if they are in an area with no landline service, if they have access to an LTE network. Like POTS, cellular lines rely on a circuit switched network where dedicated lines remain open but protected from other traffic and interference. At a high-level view, the LTE cellular systems most companies, like Verizon or AT&T, offer leverages an analog transition adapter device (ATA) to convert the analog signals your device generate to digital ones. Most offer an LTE-based, easy to use and setup, router with a SIM card slot and ports for connection to the internet, a helpful failover mechanism. In short, the LTE cellular system provides the performance and reliability building owners need.

POTS lines serve many different applications and are connected to a variety of devices, including voice communications, security alarms, fax machines, gate systems, emergency call boxes, fire panels, elevators and point of sale systems. You can utilize your existing inside or internal wiring for these devices. New LTE equipment can be installed in your telco room eliminating the need to upgrade every device with a costly cellular dialer. This is very beneficial especially if you have equipment in basements or other areas that struggle to get a good cellular connection.

It is a simple and cost-effective shift from aging POTS lines. On average, it is possible that you could save 25% to 50% by replacing old, traditional phone lines. With this growing replacement as a great option, there are many companies to research to find out what would work best and give you options to have them compete for your business to give you the best savings possible. It is a smart, cost-effective and a great step to improving infrastructure to future-proof your business.