Leading representatives meet to discuss impact of ALL-IP transition

PRESS RELEASE

01/05/2018

A major networking event to talk about the forthcoming PSTN switch-off took place on 14th March 2018, as part of the British Security Industry Association’s (BSIA) Next Generation Network (NGN) meetings.

With the theme of How changes to the UK telecommunications network may affect the Fire, Security and Telecare industries the event, held in partnership with the Fire Industry Association (FIA), TSA and Euralarm highlighted the effects of the transition from analogue to an ALL-IP digital communications network, within these industries across the UK.

A number of experts on this changing technology spoke in depth about the impact of the forthcoming PSTN switch-off and how to smoothly transition to an ALL-IP digital network for industry alarm signalling systems. This included representatives from the network communications providers BT Consumer, Virgin Media and the main infrastructure providers Openreach, as well as the UK regulator Ofcom.

David Wilkinson, Director of Technical Services, BSIA, said: “There are a total of 9 million burglar alarms in the UK, so the transition to ALL-IP signalling is going to be a huge task that throws up a variety of challenges. Work is progressing in communicating the opportunity migration offers and by working in collaboration with other industry stakeholders, we are confident that we can make positive steps towards ALL-IP”

Glen Dale, General Manager of Euralarm said: “The informative seminar, provided a very valuable insight into how and when the UK telecommunications network is modernising for the future and its impact on the Fire Safety & Security industry. Presentations by experts, either planning for the telecommunications change or providing equipment into the market, proved to be especially informative. This change from PSTN to an ALL-IP network will certainly prove challenging - but also provide significant service opportunities if prepared for in time. Thanks to this seminar we are now all better informed."

The topic is a consistent matter as the NGN progresses across the European fire and security industries. The conversation will continue at similar events in the near future, including the next NGN Seminar taking place at the New College, Lanarkshire on 28th June.

ENDS