YOUR ALARM AND THE NBN
With the recent roll out of the NBN we have been receiving many enquiries regarding the compatibility of existing alarm systems with the NBN network.
Most alarms come under three categories.
- Local alarm systems. These do not make phone calls and simply activate sirens and flashing strobe lights. These types of alarms are not affected by the NBN as they were never connected to the old phone network (PSTN) in the first place.
- Local Diallers. These are alarms that are connected to the current phone network (PSTN) and are pre-programmed to dial out to the clients mobile phone. For these alarms to continue operating the client will need to purchase a GSM Dialler. These units will also require a SIM card and mobile plan. The alarm phone lead is simply unplugged from the dead wall socket and connected into the new GSM dialler. No further programming is required. The NESS GSM dialler that we recommend has inbuilt battery backup. However it does need to be connected to the 12VDC output of the alarm. Cost $297.00
- Back to Base Monitored Alarm systems. These alarms are at the higher level of security and are monitored by our 24 hour control room for a quarterly fee. These alarms will require either a GSM dialler as above or preferably a GPRS Dialler. The GPRS unit comes inbuilt with two SIM cards (Telstra and Optus). What makes the GPRS superior to GSM is that it regularly polls back to the control room. Depending on the level of security you require polling ranges from 24 hourly for $11.00pw. One hourly for $14.85pw or 120 second polling for $17.60pw. The weekly charge includes the cost of maintaining the SIM card and the cost of all phone calls. These systems can only be used for back to base monitored alarm systems.
SCS 3GDTU/Lite is $275.00
The major benefit of GSM and GPRS dialling is that the criminals can no longer just cut the telephone wires out in the street. The GPRS is superior again because the control room knows if the GPRS device drops out because of the continuous polling.
Some modern alarms can also be retro fitted with IP modules. These then communicate via the internet. We at MDS do not recommend this form of monitoring as it is reliant upon the NBN optical fibre network. Also many modems do not have battery backup which would prevent the IP module from working.
Hopefully this answers some of your questions. Always feel free to call or email us if you have any further questions.