The forgotten devices
When people plan for the switch-off, they think about desk phones. But the analogue network quietly powers a long list of critical devices that will simply stop working when the copper is cut.
The eight most commonly overlooked
- Lift emergency phones - legally required to work 24/7. Non-compliant lifts must be taken out of service.
- Fire and burglar alarm dialers - the auto-dialer to your ARC will fail silently.
- EPOS and card payment terminals - older PDQ machines dial out over PSTN.
- Telecare pendants - crucial for elderly and vulnerable users.
- Franking machines - dial-in to top up postage.
- Door entry systems - especially older residential blocks.
- Fax machines - still common in legal, medical and shipping firms.
- Fuel-station and vending telemetry - checks levels and reports faults over analogue lines.
What to do about it
Every one of these devices has a modern IP or 4G/5G equivalent. The trick is finding them before the line is cut. Ask your facilities team for a walk-around audit this quarter, and cross-reference against your telecoms bills.
Take the Readiness Check to get a personalised risk register.
