VoiceLink from CSL addresses PSTN switch-off for emergency phones

By 31 January 2027, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be switched off, in turn disrupting many industries. Traditional landlines and voice services currently supported by PSTN will need to be switched to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) ahead of the deadline. There are still circa 9.5 million lines and channels yet to be upgraded across the UK.

With VoLTE, end users can call and have fast data transfer at the same time, which leads to cost savings and increased efficiency. What’s more, sound quality is often an issue at many high-risk sites. VoLTE enables HD voice quality, which is essential in terms of providing reassurance for whomever is making the emergency call.

CSL’s solution creates a bridge between the old and the new technology, duly allowing existing devices to continue working after the PSTN switch-off.

In addition, all 3G services will be shut down before the end of 2024. As a consequence, this means that any systems currently using 3G only, with no 2G fallback position, will also need to be upgraded.

The VoiceLink solution is ideal for emergency phones on the motorway network, at national grid sites, petrol forecourts, airports and retail outlets, as well as those within local councils, hospitals and business premises.

Emergency call points

Emergency Call Points, such as the types found on the side of motorways, at train stations, on petrol forecourts and at national grid sites and reservoirs rely on a physical phone line. They must be upgraded before the PSTN connection is switched-off.

There are Call Points located at approximately every one-mile interval on the UK’s motorways. The energy sector uses 43,000 lines to monitor services, while the water sector relies on 25,000 lines to function.

Andy Bromley, head of product at CSL, explained: “We are aware of the challenges presented by the nation’s PSTN switch-off and the shutting down of 3G. On that basis, we want to guarantee that our customers have a reliable and future-proof solution for the impending problem. VoiceLink works so that systems remain uninterrupted, ensuring that business continuity and/or public safety is never compromised.”

In the event of power loss, VoiceLink is provided with eight hours’ worth of standby or two hours of talk time. It’s also easy and quick to install. No reprogramming of existing equipment is required.

*For additional information concerning VoiceLink visit the CSL website