One of the major concerns about VoIP systems is how well they work (or don’t work) when power goes out. Unlike old copper-based systems with their low-level continuous power, VoIP needs batteries (and their backup) to keep going.
But that concern was apparently put to rest at the recently concluded Consumer Technology Association (CTA) Spring Forum. The CTA, a trade association representing the $287 billion U.S. consumer technology industry, undertakes policy advocacy, market research, technical education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. To that end, the group ended its forum by launching new standards projects to define battery backup requirements for VoIP systems, among other accomplishments.
A recent Federal Communications Commission ruling required residential VoIP providers to offer new subscribers backup power solutions that provide 911 access for 24 hours during a power outage. In response, CTA is developing new standards that will define methods and specifications for providing this backup power. (Interested parties can join “R07 WG20 VoIP Battery Backup Working Group.”)
“After a week of coordination, collaboration and networking, we’re proud of our industry’s efforts to help develop and deliver the latest technologies to consumers,” said Dave Wilson, vice president, technology & standards, Consumer Technology Association, in commenting on the accomplishment. “We thank our sponsors – the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association, the Personal Connected Health Alliance, and Kavi – for supporting the ongoing work of product managers, software and hardware architects, software engineers, technical project managers and others involved in product development.”
Looking ahead, the CTA is seeking proposals for presentations or panel discussions at its next Technology & Standards Forum, Oct. 18-20 in Austin, TX. Space will be available for industry alliances interested in hosting their own meetings at the Forum.
Edited by Stefania Viscusi