GSM fire alarm systems thriving as POTS lines decline

At present in most developed markets, fire and other alarm systems typically communicate with a monitoring service via traditional copper wires or Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS). However, in the US at least, that venerable network is beginning to fray. As more and more consumers and businesses use mobile phones phones or IP phone services instead of a traditional phone lines, POTS services are slowly being phased out. While the system is reliable and provides independent power, it is also becoming increasingly less profitable for telecom companies, and in some cases service is being cut entirely.

According to market participants interviewed in SDM Magazine, this has led to a drastic uptake in the use of cellular or GSM-equipped smoke and fire alarms among system integrators. Part of this is due to new regulations recognizing the decline of POTS and requiring a separate means of communication, but part is also because of installation prices. According to Brandt Phillips, director of sales for commercial fire and burglary products, NAPCO Security Technologies, "Dealers are finding cellular reduces both issues and also labor and installation. It is a great opportunity to walk into any fire alarm in the country, slap on a box next to it and walk out the door. Dealers want to pay attention to that because it makes them money."

Of course, cellular communications are not the only wireless solution; radio and IP systems are also on the market. But whichever system is used, at least in the US, POTS alarm systems seem to be on the way out.