4 ms·
Unfortunately some providers like Verizon are forcing customers to switch to a digital line that has an 8 hour battery backup. During Sandy we didn't have cell
by geetee 14y ago
Unfortunately some providers like Verizon are forcing customers to switch to a digital line that has an 8 hour battery backup. During Sandy we didn't have cell towers or landlines to rely on. It was an incredibly uncomfortable feeling to have no easy means of communication with family just a couple miles away.
- wiredfool 14y agoThe local phone company here is rolling out fiber to near the house, then dsl from there. But we're in an area that's very prone to power outages, and the fiber terminators require power. The phone company is serious about providing service through power outages, they even advertise that unlike the power company, they bury all their lines. So, at every fiber terminator, they've got a small generac unit and some underground fuel storage. We've had our share of 2 day power outages over the years, but the landline service has never gone out.
- wmf 14y agoThe problem comes with FTTH networks like FIOS where every customer would need a generator if they want to survive long power outages.
- wiredfool 14y agoYep. We've got the generator. What's more important is fuel. Gasoline generators suck fuel, so we use them as necessary to recharge the UPSes and cool down the fridge/freezer. Not so good for keeping the phone lines running. It helps that we have wood heat, can cook on propane, and the well (for 6 houses) has it's own generator.