PIAB is a service that provides a POTS replacement for copper phone service. The service can be used for all types of analog devices, including lifeline services like alarms, fire panels, elevators, and pool phones, which are normally not compatible with standard VoIP services over an ATA. PIAB is delivered using hardware provided by Ooma called “AirDial” and comes with a 4 analog line capacity. The device connects to the customer’s local network for primary internet service and uses an embedded 4G cellular SIM card to provide backup/failover service. An included 12-hour battery provides backup service in case of a power failure.
POTS in a Box Features
- Includes hardware, data, and phone service without unexpected monthly rate changes
- Designed considering UL, NFPA 72, California Fire Marshal, and ASME A17.1B guidelines
- Configurable for LTE failover for critical VoIP lines
- Automated software updates and system monitoring
- Ensures at least eight hours of battery backup service during outages
- Features a Dual-core ARM Cortex A9 CPU, Ouectel EG95-NAXD, Cat-4 LTE
- Includes two 5G/4G dipole terminal antennas, dual micro-SIM support, and multiple RJ-11 and RJ-45 ports
- It comes with an AC-DC adapter, integrated UPS, and a replaceable battery pack for extended standby time
- Equipped with a 176x220 TFT LCD, master on/off switch, and a factory reset option
- Measures 11.81 x 2.36 x 7.87 inches
How It Works
It integrates with existing systems, ensuring continuity with current infrastructure. It supports voice and data transmission and features LTE failover capabilities for uninterrupted service. Remote management is enabled through a web portal, allowing for real-time monitoring, automatic updates, and alert notifications. A built-in battery backup ensures functionality during power outages, and the device adheres to various safety and regulatory standards.
Customer Requirements
The requirements vary based on the type of devices connected to the PIAB hardware. If you plan on connecting to an alarm panel, we need you to provide the model number to SimpleVoIP before ordering. While we can connect to almost all panels, some older panels do not allow for remote programming.
Requirements for Installation
- The network must be configured to allow traffic to our servers (different from VoIP)
- Hardware must be mounted in a location with power and internet connectivity via a CAT5 cable.
- Hardware must be mounted in a location with adequate cellular signal (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, US Cellular).
- If devices are to be connected to the unit that is not in the same room, copper pairs must be extended or punched down from the device.
Site Survey
Prior to installation, we need to know exactly where we will install the device and verify the types and models of all devices so we can program the device properly. We need to know if inside wiring is available or if there will be a need to run new cabling. Customers can provide this information to us on our site survey form, or we can go onsite and perform a survey.
Installation
SimpleVoIP will install the device based on the location identified on the site survey or provided by the customer. Installation may take longer based on the amount of lines ordered, cabling needs, and time needed to work with your alarm company.
Alarm Panels
Alarm panels require additional time to install and test and require that we coordinate the installation with your alarm monitoring company. We will assign a new phone number, connect it to your alarm panel, and work with your alarm company to put the panel in test mode and trigger a test alarm, as well as verify the alarm can call your monitoring company and they can dial in and control your panel after migration. This also requires coordination with your security team or whoever is authorized to work with the alarm company. Allow extra time for alarm panel testing.
Fire Panels
Our solution is NPFA 72 certified, and this document can be provided to your local fire marshal if requested. Please note that many fire panels require 2 analog lines. You may be sharing a fire monitoring line currently with another device; however, upon installation and testing, we may discover that the system is unable to handle a shared line, resulting in the need to provision an additional line of service.
Our Process
For each location, we follow a strict process designed to minimize risk, cost, and onsite technician time. This process is followed for each individual location; however, if you have a multi-site project, you will be able to approve orders in bulk, and we will work with you to schedule the deployment. Below is a summary of what you can expect:
- Quote Request: Ask your account manager or email sales@simplevoip.com to request pricing for your location(s). We will need the basics: how many lines, the site address, and what types of devices you will be connecting to.
- Quote/Order Approval: We will send you a proposal with a link to approve the order in our portal.
- Site Survey: Once signed, you will be sent a URL with a site survey form to complete before we can move forward in the process. At this point, you can fill it out yourself (with the help of a local contact), or you can ask us to schedule an onsite dispatch to gather the information for you. Once received, we will review the information and create an onsite statement of work for the installation.
- Dispatch Approval: We will send you another order to approve the onsite dispatch work, with a requested date to schedule the installation. Once approved, we will begin staging and configuring the equipment and start the booking process for our onsite technician.
- Equipment Shipment: Once the dispatch order is approved, we will ship equipment to arrive on-site about 1 week prior to installation.
- Onsite Install: On the installation date, our technician will arrive, unpack the equipment, and install the box at the designated location. Based on the accuracy of the information provided, the tech will attempt to connect the PIAB box to your devices and test their functionality. If an alarm system is involved