Using a GSM mobile phone module as the ‘emergency phone’ in a lift can be 25% cheaper than a fixed-line connection, according to Burnside Telecom.
Total Lifts recently used the Burnside T355 to provide emergency communication if a lift stops unexpectedly or breaks down. Once initial installation was completed, Burnside Telecom calculated that costs over a 10-year period would be 25% cheaper for the T355 unit when compared with using a conventional fixed line.
Jon Spear, co-director of Total Lifts, said “The Burnside T355 offers security for both passenger and service personnel via a simple, highly reliable, cost effective system. The GSM capability means it can be installed almost anywhere and be up and running the same day, and at a fraction of the price of using a BT line. For companies with multiple sites, the cost savings will be huge.”
Although lifts can suffer from poor GSM network signals, it’s possible to position an antenna outside a lift to obtain a stronger signal. In addition, an internal battery can provide power for up to a week in the event of a power failure.