Connection Options for the Power Outage Alert System

The Power Outage Alert System is an add-on that works with all our battery-powered backup generator systems.

During a power outage, the alarm system automatically makes calls to up to four phone numbers when:

• The backup generator stops receiving power (e.g., an outage happens).
• The backup generator stops providing power (e.g., the batteries run out).

It can also:

• Monitor and report the room temperature when called.
• Record custom alert messages for power changes, making it ideal for facilities with multiple units in different locations.

The power outage alert system needs to be connected to a phone line or network using its phone jack to make and receive phone calls.

You have 3 choices for connecting your alert system to a network:

1. Standard Analog Phone Line – This is a regular phone line.
2. Voice-over Internet Protocol Adapter (VoIP) – This can use a wired connection or Wi-Fi.
3. Wireless Cellphone Network Adapter (Mobile Hotspot) – This uses a cellphone network.

Each option connects in different ways, so how well they work can depend on:

• Your facility’s current network setup
• Your facility’s IT skills
• The availability of phone service during an emergency

We’ll explain each option, how it connects to your backup generator, and how it works during an outage.

Also known as a “copper line” or “POTS line,” we highly recommend connecting your power outage alert system to a traditional landline phone jack.

In an emergency, traditional phone lines still work because they use their own power supply, which is separate from the main power grid. This ensures that calls will go through, keeping key decision-makers informed during an emergency.

This option is included by default and doesn’t need any extra adapters or costs. To connect, simply plug one end of a phone wire into the alert system and the other end into the wall jack.

A wireless cellular network adapter is another choice for places without a traditional phone line. Instead of using the internet, this adapter connects to a cell phone network through a device called a wireless hotspot.

The main advantage of a wireless hotspot is that cell phone networks usually stay active during power outages. Cell phone towers often have their own power supplies or backup generators, so they can keep working even without main power.

To connect, you’ll run a phone line from the Power Outage Alert System to the wireless hotspot. However, wireless hotspots need their own power source to work. Most people use their battery backup system to power the hotspot, as it uses very little power.

Before using a wireless hotspot, check the network coverage in your area because rural areas might have weaker signals. Also, depending on where the backup system is, there might be some interference that can affect performance during an outage.

To use a wireless hotspot, you’ll need a SIM card and a service plan with a wireless phone carrier, which Medi-Products does not provide. However, for organizations with existing wireless plans, this option can be affordable and convenient.