Existing Customer Support
VOIP & Alarm Systems
Voice Over Internet Protocol and what it means for your alarm monitoring
VOIP & Your Alarm System
VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) uses your internet connection to enable voice calls over internet-based networks. Your alarm system is designed to send signals to the monitoring station over an analog phone line. For VOIP to work with your alarm, the signal must be converted from analog to digital at the VOIP modem, then converted back to analog along the phone network — and this conversion process is where problems can develop.
VOIP Risks for Alarm Systems
Power Failure Issues
Your alarm panel has a backup battery for power failures. Traditional analog lines still work during outages — but VOIP does not, as your internet router and VOIP modem both require constant power.
Technical Issues
VOIP services are more prone to unknown technical issues and dropped calls. If a call drops while your alarm is transmitting data, the signal may never reach our monitoring center.
Security Vulnerability
Like a conventional landline, your VOIP or cable-based phone line can be cut or disabled by an intruder — stopping your alarm's ability to communicate with our monitoring center.
📱 The Solution: Dual Path LTE Communicator
TMC strongly encourages VOIP customers to add a cellular backup (GSM/LTE) unit to their alarm system. This provides a direct link to our monitoring center if your VOIP, cable phone, or landline is disabled for any reason.
We also suggest purchasing a UPS (Un-interrupted Power Supply) for your internet router and VOIP modem to maintain power during outages.
Have Questions About VOIP?
Our Technical Support team can answer all VOIP-related questions and help you find the best solution for your alarm system.