Beware Next Generation Networks

BT's 21CN Programme causing problems for older alarm systems

You may have heard of a major development in the UK’s telecommunications infrastructure. It’s actually causing a headache for alarms with remote monitoring. The development is the move to replace the UK’s historic copper cable phone system with fibre optic cables.

BT refer to it as their 21CN (21st Century Network) programme. It’s being rolled out gradually from territory to territory.  However, there has been a rise in thefts of copper cabling and when this occurs, BT installs the fibre optic cables.

Andy Rees, Chairman of Absolute Security Systems says, “We’ve been hearing reports that old alarms with a remote monitoring capability are not functioning with the new fibre optic cables used in these Next Generation Networks”.

Remote monitoring systems are those that they send an alert to a monitoring station if a break-in or fire occurs.

Andy adds, “the problem lies in the fact that the fibre optic system is creating time delays when the alarms dial an alert through to the monitoring station.  These delays can cause the equipment to malfunction.  Sadly this means that people, possessions and property at these sites are now at risk”.

Absolute Security wants to raise awareness of the issue to home owners, business owners and those responsible for public buildings.  It has also learned that BT plans to switch most exchanges in Surrey and Hampshire over to the new fibre optic cabling by this summer.

Andy Rees adds, “If a home or business property has an alarm older than 5 years’ old with a remote monitoring function, please do give us a call on 01483 791 500.  We’ll be able to guide you free of charge whether your alarm is compatible or not with the Next Generation Networks”.

Newer models of intruder alarms, which have remote monitoring capability, have been designed with the fibre optic cabling in mind. For more information about New Generation Networks and security systems, email andy@absolutesecurity.co.uk