04/08/2017
What Impact will the NBN have on your phone system?
There seems to be a lot of confusion around the impact of the NBN to your current telephone system, so here are some frequently asked questions/answers.
Right now across Australia, nbn is building and constructing the nbn™ broadband access network. The NBN is being built in stages across different areas.
The NBN effectively replaces the traditional copper services to your home and/or business, with fibre connections to deliver both internet and telephony services.
Q. Will I be advised when the NBN is available in my area?
A: Initially you will be advised that NBN will commence build within your area, however that build can take up to 12-24 months before your area is declared Ready for Service (RFS).
Q. I have traditional PSTN Analogue services, will these be cut off when the NBN is available?
A: Once the NBN is declared Ready for Service (RFS) you still have eighteen months before the analogue services will be cut off. Although you shouldn’t leave it to the last minute, that gives you plenty of time to discuss with your carrier the transition of your numbers to alternate NBN based plans.
Q. I have ISDN Digital services, will these be discontinued?
A: Although most carriers will cease selling new ISDN services from 2018, existing ISDN services will continue to be supported for some time after that. Again you will be provided with plenty of notice to consider migrating to alternate NBN or SIP based services.
Q. Do we have to replace our Business Phone System when the NBN becomes available?
A. The short answer is most likely no. Be aware that some unscrupulous sales people are advising customers that they must upgrade their telephone system, or will lose their telephone numbers, which is not exactly true.
If you have purchased your phone system in the last few years, it is most likely IP capable, which means it can be directly connected to IP based trunks, such as SIP trunks. This may require additional IP cards and/or licensing, so best to check with your telephony provider to determine what is required.
Alternatively, you can purchase adaptors such Analogue Terminal Adapters (ATAs) that can convert an IP based line to an analogue interface which can then connect to your phone system.
Of course if you have a very old telephone system, or you are looking at upgrading functionality, then it might be a good idea to consider upgrading the telephone system. There are many options available with advanced functionality and the flexibility of either on-premise or cloud based systems.
If you’re still not sure, or wish to discuss options available, please give one of our consultants a call for a no obligation discussion.
