Answers to Your Biometric Access Control Questions

Biometric access control

When security is your primary concern, biometric access control might be the ideal solution. Biometric access is a form of security used by banks, government organizations, and other high-security industries and is considered one of the most reliable types of access control available.

Defining biometric access control

Simply put, biometric identification refers to the use of fingerprints, facial recognition, retinal scanning, iris scanning, or most other biological identification methods as security measures. Rather than using an access code or key card, each person granted access to a specific area must present a part of his or her body for scanning prior to gaining entry.

For example, there might be a room in an office where sensitive information is stored. By deploying a biometric access control solution, one might enjoy greater security while not hampering those who need access to the information stored there. It is much easier to steal a key card or guess a PIN number than to manipulate a retinal or fingerprint scan.

As technology has become more accessible, hacking personal identification numbers (PINs) and access codes is even easier for those wishing to gain unauthorized access to information and facilities. PINs and passwords are used on almost every personal account, such as an ATM or for a computer login. Users are encouraged never to write down a password or reuse it for multiple security purposes, but more often than not, a password is passed along from person to person, making a security breach inevitable.

Because of the risks associated with PINs, many businesses rely on biometric authentication to differentiate individual physical characteristics that can’t be replicated from one person to another. While a password can be corrupted or copied, biometric access is user-friendly yet stringent in its security protection.

How biometric access control works

There are several different ways biometric access control systems can be used for security purposes. In its most basic form, a software program can store biological data, which is then compared to the scan employed when an individual presents that same data for access. This data could be anything from a retinal scan to a fingerprint. Of course, more sophisticated technology is also available. For example, the U.S. government can use holographic images for facial recognition when government employees need to gain access to secure areas. Since different employees have varying access levels, biometrics is the easiest way to ensure that only approved workers enter restricted areas.

The features to look for

When you decide to use a biometric security solution for your business, it is important to consider features that will be available to you and price. Ideally, the biometric security system you choose should fit within your budget and provide sufficient security to ensure limited access areas cannot be accessed by unauthorized individuals.

Size is an important consideration when reviewing biometric access control products. Some biometric security equipment is no larger than a doorknob and can be used on any access point. Other pieces of equipment are much larger and require a security attendant to assist with operation.

One of the most common forms of biometric security devices in use today is the biometric door lock. This device uses fingerprint scanning to permit or deny access to restricted areas. When using this type of system, industry experts recommend purchasing a product that is reversible so it can be fitted to any door. You may also prefer additional features, such as a system that allows executives to manually override the biometric identification in case of emergency. A system with a high reliability rating is recommended, but will still not preclude the need for some sort of manual bypass.

Cost

When purchasing a biometric system, make sure to obtain several price quotes to compare prices and product lines. A single fingerprint reader can cost as little as $50 if one chooses to install it themselves. While most shops and offices need never use more than fingerprint readers, other options are available.

Full service installation of a single biometric hand reader with locking system for the average office or shop (1-25 employees and 2 doors) can cost upwards of $5,000 when installed by a professional. Research and consultation will clue you in on your security needs and help better define your budget.

Start your search today with Kadis’s free request for access control price quotes – we’ll provide the best biometric security system for your requirements

Contact KADIS.COM.NG on 08061379390 or 08024207231 for sales, installation and consultancy services.

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Definition and Commercial Uses of Biometric Access Control

Biometric access control: definition and commercial uses

Can you imagine a future where your identity is the key to unlocking doors? In this article, we will answer this question through biometric access control. This secure and effective technology uses a combination of unique features of each person to authenticate and authorize access to various places and systems.

What is biometric access?

Biometric access is an advanced access control method that captures and analyses physical or behavioural attributes intrinsic to each individual to authenticate and authorise entry to a facility or system. Rather than relying on keycards, passwords or PINs, this system leverages biological characteristics such as fingerprints, facial recognition, iris, voice or even vein patterns to ensure accurate and secure identification.

Biometric access is not just a technology but also a proof of human nature’s complexity and uniqueness. This concept is based on the idea that each of us has a biological signature that is virtually impossible to replicate.

Types of biometric technologies for access control

Several biometric technologies redefine the way we access critical areas. These include:

Facial recognition: uses artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze and compare a person’s unique facial features for biometric authentication.
Fingerprint: is a type of biometrics widely used in mobile devices. In this case, unique fingerprint patterns are captured and compared.
Iris recognition: This system, considered one of the pioneers in access control, evaluates the unique and complex pattern of the iris for identification. To do so, it captures the pattern of the eye iris through optical systems or sensors and contrasts it by algorithms with existing records of that person. This pattern is unique to each person and virtually unalterable over time.
Voice recognition: analyses vocal characteristics for authentication, such as tone and rhythm.
Vein recognition: check out vein patterns under the skin for authentication.

How biometric access control systems work

The way of working of a biometric access control system generally involves connected steps that are performed to authenticate an individual’s identity. The steps that are common to any system are:

User enrolment: users register in the system by providing their biometric data. During this process, their unique biometric characteristics are captured and recorded.
Storage: the biometric data is securely stored in the database.
Scanning or access request: when the user attempts to enter an area through an access point or device, the system scans their biometric features.
FExtraction: the features are extracted and turned into actionable data. Biometric algorithms parse and convert the captured features into a format that can be compared.
Comparison: the extracted biometric data is compared with the stored templates.
Authorisation: the system generates an authentication result based on the similarity between the captured and stored features. If the similarity exceeds a threshold, access is given.

For biometric access control to operate effectively, it is crucial to have a reading or scanning device that captures the biometric factor used in biometric authentication. Furthermore, software is required to transform the captured biometric data into a standard digital format, which verifies the captured data with the stored biometric pattern.

Advantages of biometric access control

Biometric access control presents several advantages, including:

A very high degree of security: biometric features are unique and challenging to replicate, which increases security.
Getting rid of passwords: users do not need to remember passwords, reducing access issues.
Boosting efficiency: authentication processes are fast and frictionless.
Preventing identity theft: biometric authentication significantly reduces the risk of impersonation.
Compliance: In some industries, such as healthcare or banking, biometric authentication can help comply with strict security and privacy regulations.

Sustainable biometrics and access control

Another benefit of controlling door, turnstile and barrier access with biometrics is reducing the use of conventional keycards. This innovative approach not only simplifies and secures identification processes but also addresses the concerns inherent in the production and management of plastic cards.

Traditional access card systems often used in enterprise and security environments have a notable environmental impact. Their production requires a combination of natural resources, energy and chemical processes that produce polluting emissions. By eliminating the need for physical cards, the demand for plastic and the processes related to their manufacture are drastically reduced.

It is important to note that sustainability lies not only in reducing plastic production but also in biometric access control’s efficiencies. The verification and entry process means less congestion in access areas and reduced energy consumption.

Biometric access control use cases

The versatility of biometric access control makes it suitable for various applications and industries. These include:

Companies

This type of access control has revolutionised entry and exit management in the corporate environment. Fingerprint-based identification or facial biometrics automates check-in and check-out, eliminates the need for manual records and saves time in HR. Furthermore, it provides records of employees working in production plants, prevents unauthorised personnel from entering warehouses, and controls access to car parks.

Government

Many government facilities store sensitive national security, diplomacy and justice information. Access control ensures that only authorised personnel and visitors have access to these areas and reduces the risk of unauthorised intrusions, leaks of confidential information and acts of terrorism.

Healthcare

Hospitals are crowded spaces, increasing the risk of strangers or emergencies. Access control helps prevent unauthorised entry to critical areas such as operating theatres, intensive care units, oncology, maternity wards and hospital pharmacies. Controlling the flow of people with biometrics decreases the spread of infection and the risk of contamination.

Education

Access control in educational institutions ensures that only authorised persons, such as students and teachers, can enter school facilities while protecting equipment, resources and data for research and student projects. Linked to this is its use for security and order at events and extracurricular activities.

Financial

Banks and other financial institutions have embraced biometric access control to strengthen the security of their facilities and protect assets. In this sense, it is a security measure for transactions and accessing vaults.

Airports

Airports are busy places, so border and access control are vital to maintaining public safety, ensuring citizens’ movement and safe and smooth operations running without incident. Furthermore, it provides that only passengers with valid tickets and permits, such as visas, can take a cross-border flight. It also ensures aviation security and the security of specific areas, such as runways.

Entry-Exit System (EES): document verification and biometrics

Europe is leading the way in biometric border access control with its Entry/Exit System. The main goal of this system is to speed up the entry and exit of individuals and to verify the identity of passengers arriving from outside the Schengen area or passengers expecting to travel to non-EU countries.

This control system at airports and other migration control areas uses a totem that integrates biometric software and devices that efficiently verify identity documents. The process is based on comparing the face of the ID holder with the photo stored in the MRZ and the visual inspection zone of passports.

Is the biometric access control system secure?

The biometric access system is generally considered secure due to the unique and distinctive nature of the biological attributes used for authentication. Nevertheless, like any technology, it may face challenges such as impersonation attacks, which is why security considerations must be addressed to ensure its effectiveness and protect users’ privacy.

Some additional security measures that can ensure maximum protection include data encryption, multi-factor authentication and liveness detection.

Data encryption

Biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial biometric templates, must be encrypted. The encryption process involves transforming biometric data into an unreadable and secure format using mathematical algorithms. It ensures that even if someone accesses the encrypted data, they will only see characters with no helpful information. The only way to make this data readable is by using the corresponding decryption key, which will only be known to people with legitimate access.

Biometric multi-factor authentication

Another critical security layer is multi-factor authentication (MFA). Combining biometric authentication with another method, such as a password or security token, creates a more robust system. While a criminal could spoof one factor, they are much less likely to be able to bypass multiple layers of authentication.

The idea behind two-factor biometric authentication is to add a layer of protection by combining unique and hard-to-replicate elements. While biometric features are inherently secure due to their uniqueness, implementing multi-factor authentication further enhances the system’s security by requiring users to provide multiple types of evidence to verify their identity.

A typical example of multi-factor biometric authentication is facial recognition, together with fingerprint recognition. In this scenario, a user would have to place their face in front of a facial recognition sensor and put their fingerprint on a fingerprint sensor to be authenticated. The above is a typical example of passenger identification at border checkpoints or crossings.

Liveness detection

Attack detection is also an important measure. Biometric systems must be able to identify fraud attempts, such as using photographs instead of real faces at access with facial biometrics. Measures such as liveness detection allow the user’s authenticity to be verified in real time.

Privacy and ethical concerns in access control

Implementing biometric access control raises fundamental privacy and ethical concerns by using personal biometric data for authentication. These matters are crucial due to the unique nature of biometric data, which can reveal highly personal aspects of individuals.

In this sense, data protection regulations, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and similar laws in other third countries, are essential to ensure that biometric data collection, storage and processing is done lawfully.

Importance of informed consent

The key focus in the implementation of such systems is informed consent. Users must be informed about what data will be collected, how it will be used and what their rights are about that data.

The storage and processing of biometric data must be safe and secure. As commented in the previous point, security measures should include data encryption and the implementation of cutting-edge security protocols to prevent unauthorised access and data breaches. Furthermore, data storage should be time-limited and justified for legitimate purposes.

Therefore, biometric access control systems should be implemented to ensure authentication and balance innovation and privacy protection.

What is the best biometric access control solution for your company?

The biometric access control solution choice depends on several factors, such as the environment, the level of security required and the budget. Working with providers with a customized approach and expertise in biometric security, such as kadis.com.ng, is essential to identify the best solution for your business.

Contact KADIS.COM.NG on 08061379390 or 08024207231 for sales, installation and consultancy services

Biometric Access Control Systems and Door Locks Complete Guide

Biometric Access Control Systems and Door Locks Guide

Takeaways:

Biometric Access Control: This technology uses unique biological traits like fingerprints, faces, or irises to identify individuals and grant access.
System Functionality: Biometric systems rely on sensors, matching engines, and secure databases to verify identities and log every access event.
Advantages and Considerations: While they offer strong authentication and convenience, biometric systems must be implemented with care to address privacy, integration, and compatibility challenges.

No longer do locks rely on a simple metal key that can be easily duplicated. With advancements in commercially available biometric technology, access control systems can now use parts of the human body as a key!

It’s not just a tech seen in spy movies and science fiction books anymore. Modern devices can now use the uniqueness of fingerprints, facial mapping, and eye scanning to manage access and improve security.

How Biometric Access Control Systems Work

The term biometric means using unique body characteristics as a method of identification. Since each human body is amazingly complex and distinctive, it works great as a hard-to-copy key. How does technology take that seemingly complicated data and make it an accessible medium?

Core Components: Sensors, Databases, and Matching Engines

In its simplest form, a digital access control system is a series of checks. The different components work together to cross-reference data to ensure a match.

First, the sensors input the initial data with a scan, whether tactile (fingerprint scanners) or visual (facial recognition systems or iris scans).

That recorded information is sent to a matching engine, which compares incoming data to a database that houses all the permissions for that particular system.

If a positive match is made between the input and stored data, access is granted and a log entry is recorded.

In the event that there is a mismatch, a log entry will be made for the failed attempt, and access will be denied.

Note: The templates that are stored in the system are actually made up of mathematical code and not actual images. That way, potential hackers can’t actually steal any useful data from the systems to copy the credentials, as the mathematical code is unique to the system and not standalone information!

Authentication Process: Enrollment and Verification

In order for the access control system to work effectively, it needs to be programmed with a record of permitted values. This step usually happens when the access equipment is installed. Professional installers can educate staff on how to input the information as new needs arise.

Biometric Types

Any part of a human body that works as a key is a biometric. The term comes from the two root words, “bio” meaning living, and “metric” meaning measure.

Fingerprint Recognition

The most commonly used method is fingerprints. The unique whorls and ridges of each person’s finger are specific to them and have been used as a way of identity verification long before the machine scanners were invented. Now, biometric door locks and fingerprint access control systems exist as a means of modern security!

Facial Recognition

Many higher-end phone brands actually implement biometric controls like facial recognition systems to gain access. The camera compares the physical characteristics of the face in front of the lens against the template stored in the phone, assuming it is programmed with this functionality.

Iris Scanning

More expensive biometric access control systems use the human eye to serve as a key. These devices emit a near-infrared light (NIR) to map even dark colored eyes. The scanner measures critical data points against stored templates to determine access permissions.

Voice Authentication

With the dawn of AI, voice recognition software for security has declined in popularity. Although voice authentication is better than no security, with voice modulators and replicators, these devices are highly susceptible to spoofing and can pose a security risk.

Note: Spoofing is the act of using computerized means to mimic a voice or identification credential.

Advantages of Biometric Systems

The reason that biometrics have become a popular option is because of the difficulty of tricking the systems.

Enhanced Security and Authentication

Biometric systems enhance security and authentication by relying on unique biological traits, such as fingerprints or facial features, that are extremely difficult to replicate or steal. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access compared to traditional methods like PINs or keycards. Many biometric devices also include anti-spoofing technologies such as liveness detection and AI-based analysis, making it even harder for attackers to bypass the system. Additionally, each access event is tied to a specific individual, creating clear and accurate audit trails for accountability.

Efficiency and Convenience

One of the major perks of biometric access control solutions is the seamless experience they provide. Users do not need to carry cards, remember passwords, or worry about lost keys. Access is granted in seconds with just a glance or a touch, which keeps people moving and operations flowing smoothly.

For businesses managing high foot traffic or multiple access levels, this speed adds up to major time savings while improving workplace efficiency.

Elimination of Keys and Passwords

Keys can be lost, stolen, or copied. Passwords can be forgotten or shared. Biometrics removes those risks from the equation. Since biometric credentials are part of a person, they cannot be misplaced or handed off. This reduces the chances of unauthorized entry through shared logins or borrowed identifiers and makes managing access far easier for administrators.

Challenges in Implementing Biometric Systems

As with any advanced technology, biometric systems come with considerations that need to be carefully planned for. These challenges do not necessarily outweigh the benefits, but understanding them upfront helps with successful adoption.

Technical Compatibility Issues

Not every biometric system plays well with existing infrastructure. Integrating with older access panels, third-party security platforms, or outdated databases can require custom solutions or hardware upgrades. This is especially true in multi-site operations or buildings with legacy systems. Working with experienced security professionals can help streamline integration and avoid compatibility surprises.

Privacy and Data Protection Concerns

Because biometric systems collect sensitive biological data, implementing security measures to protect that information is essential. Privacy regulations such as GDPR and various state laws in the U.S. require clear policies around how biometric data is stored, processed, and shared. Biometric templates must be encrypted and stored securely, with limited access to authorized personnel only. Transparency with users about how their data is used and protected helps build trust and supports compliance.

Cost and Budget Considerations

While biometric systems offer clear advantages, they also come with upfront costs that need to be weighed against long-term value. Advanced sensors, secure databases, and integration services can require more investment than traditional locks or keycard systems. That said, many organizations find the long-term savings in reduced administrative workload, lower key replacement expenses, and minimized security breaches to be well worth it!

It’s also helpful to think about biometric access control as a scalable solution. Systems can often be installed in phases, starting with the most sensitive entry points and expanding as needs evolve.

Integration with Existing Security Systems

Biometric access control is most effective when it works in tandem with other security layers. Integrating it into a commercial security system, such as intercoms, surveillance cameras, or visitor management systems, can create a more complete picture of access events and potential threats. Coordination between systems also allows for faster response times when anomalies occur. When checking for compatibility with existing access control systems, work with a security expert to ensure proper functionality.

Conclusion

From fingerprints to facial recognition, biometric entry systems are transforming the way organizations manage secure entry. It blends high-tech innovation with practical benefits, offering both better authentication and a smoother user experience. While every facility is different, businesses looking to tighten security and streamline operations will likely find biometrics a powerful upgrade to their existing systems.

Not sure where to begin? Connect with the friendly experts at KADIS.COM.NG Security on 08061379390 or 08024207231 for a free onsite consultation and find the right biometric solution for your unique security needs!

Key Questions and Answers on Access control systems

Throughout history, humans have always found ways to secure access to areas—from wooden locks in Assyria to Tutankhamun’s tomb locked with a rope system. Around 200 years ago, Linus Yale patented the modern lock in 1848, and it has been the core of building security ever since. However, we now rely on cloud-based technology in many areas of our lives, and security is no exception.

There are many different physical access control systems, but before you decide which one is right for you, here are the answers to frequently asked questions. And remember, whichever one you choose, access control is designed to make your building a safer place.

1. How does access control work?

Access control provides physical security that restricts who can enter a specific area at any time. Technologically-advanced access control systems allow entry only to authorised users and verify everyone who enters and exits a monitored area.

These systems use different methods of controlling access, including Radio Frequency Identification lock systems, biometrics, electromagnetic mechanisms, keycards, and smartphones.

When someone tries to access an area, their credential is authenticated. The user’s information or credential—anything from a fingerprint to a security card—is sent to an Access Control Unit. This then establishes if the user should be granted access to the area.

Next, the Access Control Unit verifies if the valid user has permission to access the specific area. The user’s credentials will have to pass a series of digital tests such as:

Using the correct type of credentials for that particular area
Gaining access during a permitted timeframe
Using one of the correct trigger types

When the user passes all of these tests, they can gain access as the security device will be unlocked. This works differently depending on the type of security device in operation. For example, the power supply is momentarily stopped for an electromagnetic lock; however, the opposite happens for door strikes as a power supply unlocks the door for a few seconds.

For wireless locks the latch is engaged with the presentation of an approved credential but remains disengaged at all other times – preventing access but allowing free egress from the room or area under control.

2. What are the benefits of access control?

Keeping your business safe with the least amount of hassle is your prime concern. Opening and closing your business at the right time is a serious logistical challenge. Giving keys to every staff member is a risk—and there is the added problem of restricting access to certain areas for certain employees.

An access control system can provide answers to all of these problems. It takes away the need for one person to be in charge of maintaining lock systems, distributing keys to the right people at the right time, and the need to keep the whole system secure. Instead, it allows you to take control of your building’s security, modify it, and choose the best method for your requirements.

3. Is it easy to manage my access control system?

Administering a system is relatively simple, especially with the newer cloud-based access control systems as they integrate with much of your existing software, such as Google Workspace and Active Directory. In addition, these new systems are more flexible for service enhancements. They can be managed using administrative software that syncs automatically with Internet-connected Access Control Units—this means you can add or remove entries, schedules, alerts, and users.

Moreover, administrators can audit access control systems by generating reports for access logs. This may include user and entry activity and is helpful for security reasons. First, it ensures your system is working correctly without problems. And second, it is useful for adhering to compliance standards that are an essential component of your insurance requirements.

4. How do access control systems improve security?

This is generally the most widely asked question—and the reason businesses decide to make the switch from traditional lock to intelligent systems. Access control systems are more effective at prohibiting access for unauthorised personnel. The systems are harder to compromise, and they add an extra level of security for buildings of all sizes with different requirements.

Keys can be lost and copied, which can compromise your building’s security. There is no other option other than changing every lock in the building and issuing new keys, which is time-consuming and costly. However, access control systems use safer methods that are easy to disable quickly. For example, employees could be given pin codes, which are easy to block at any time. Or they could be given an access card, which can be cancelled instantaneously or programmed to expire at a given date or period after their initial issue. They could even use their own biometric information, which is not possible to replicate.

Companies use technology to record everyone who enters and exits your building. Records are kept of how long they stayed and which areas they accessed—useful for both employees and visitors. If there is a security breach in your building, getting to the bottom of the issue is more straightforward as everyone is tracked and verified.

5. Which industries could benefit from an access control system?

Security is paramount for everyone, so we can all benefit from an access control system—from large corporations to small businesses owners and everyone in between. The following three industries commonly adopt access control technologies:

Financial institutions

Banks are constantly under threat, and they need to manage security without employing physical security. An IoT access control system, for example, can lock doors and offices remotely without the need for physical intervention.

Multi-site businesses

Businesses with multiple sites have particular challenges when it comes to security. Traditional locks are not secure, and legacy access control systems present logistical challenges as each site requires its own individual server. A high level of support is also be required to make sure employees visiting multiple sites have the access they need.

However, the new cloud-based systems allow businesses the flexibility to scale up and provide security at multiple locations without each site needing an individual server. Remote access allows a single interface located anywhere globally to give and restrict access and permissions for all employees. This removes the administrative responsibility from the company’s own IT department.

Education providers

Providing security for students and teaching staff must be every institution’s top priority. Parents and students want to be sure that only people who have legitimate access to the facilities are onsite. Access control systems allow institutions to set parameters for specific individuals, including delivery drivers. Time restrictions can also be set for contractors who can only be on-site during particular hours.

Healthcare services

The logistics behind hospitals are complex. For example, many restricted access areas constantly change depending on the time of day. Shift patterns also pose challenges; individuals need access to places only when they are officially working. Moreover, healthcare facilities need to ensure that people with the correct permissions can access drugs, equipment, and sensitive records whilst allowing the free movement of people around public access areas.

6. How do I plan for access control installation?

Every building is different, so you must plan for its unique features before installing an access control system. Below are some key points to consider, but an expert security company will be able to work closely with you to understand your building’s specific requirements and make sure you are compliant with building regulations.

Check site drawings of your building to understand what components you need and where you should install them.
Ensure you get permission from the authorities to guarantee your access control design complies with regulations – always check with the fire office
Confirm in writing your plan for the system with the installation company and ensure you are entirely sure about the scope and cost of the project

7. How will access control make things easier?

Cloud-based access control systems allow virtually unlimited permissions and rules. They give you enormous scope to control your building and customise your security needs—which makes your life easier. You can:

Limit specific employees access to particular areas at certain times
Establish multiple authentication factors for certain employees
Restrict access to certain areas
Deactivate an employee’s access code or revoke their access card without changing the whole system
Sync your system directly with your HR database

Conclusion

Installing an access control system involves an initial cost, but this will also be an investment. New cloud-based systems will not only save you time (as well as the associated administrative overheads), they will also save you thousands of pounds preventing security breaches.

Common PBX Phone System Issues & Troubleshooting Solutions

When a PBX phone system is experiencing issues, it’s important to know how to troubleshoot them!

Every business relies heavily upon their telecommunications strategies, because your customers and clients need convenient ways to reach your team and ask important questions about your products and services. Telecom strategies are also crucial in terms of helping employees be more efficient task-solvers.

A PBX phone system, which stands for private branch exchange, is a low-maintenance and user-friendly telecom solution that’s adaptable for all of today’s tech-savvy necessities. But it’s important to remember that even the high-quality PBX systems can sometimes experience issues, and business teams need to be prepared to address these issues in order to maintain their overall efficiency.

So below we’ll be delving deeper into some of the most common issues connected to PBX phone systems, as well as some troubleshooting tips to help you address any minor bugs!

Common PBX Phone System Issues & Troubleshooting Solutions

PBX phone systems are typically very reliable and experience little to no problems, but some issues occur every now and again. Below are some of the common issues that business owners should be aware of:

Jitter

One issue that PBX phone systems sometimes experience is referred to as jitter, and this means the call’s data might be temporarily disrupted and subsequently result in call quality issues. This is particularly an issue with PBX systems operating via the Internet, but the good news is that there’s a device called a jitter buffer that makes sure to maintain call quality and eliminate the risks of jitter.

So if your company’s PBX phone system doesn’t currently have a jitter buffer and is experiencing jitter symptoms, you’ll want to install one to fix these problems!

Inadvertent Busy Signals

No one wants to turn customers off by accidentally having a busy signal up, but some PBX phone systems will have wiring problems that then lead to inadvertent busy signals.

This is why it’s so important to make sure your system is correctly wired up, and that all of your devices are properly connected to your building’s electrical system. You may also want to consider a system reboot to troubleshoot this issue.

Bandwidth Troubles

Sometimes businesses will still experience call quality problems even when they have a jitter buffer, and these business phone system problems are often connected to bandwidth dilemmas. This is particularly an issue with VoIP phone systems, because these systems require top-notch Web connections.

When your business has low bandwidth, it means you can only send out a limited amount of data via the Internet. This typically leads to call quality problems. You should have at least 100Kbps with your Web connection’s bandwidth, and you may also need to upgrade your router to prioritize your website’s traffic and maintain top-quality calls.

Call Placement Issues

When your company’s calls aren’t being connected to the correct employees or departments, it’s an easy issue to resolve.

The main thing you’ll need to do is reconfigure your system’s Interactive Voice Response (IVR). This can be done by using your PBX phone system’s administration panel to reset your IVR settings and redirect your calls to where they’re supposed to go.

Latency

If you can hear your voice while you’re talking to someone on the phone, that’s referred to as latency. It technically is the term for any delay between the things you say and when the other line hears your voice.

There are three main types of latency, including:

Queue delays
Handling delays
Propagation delays

Here are some troubleshooting tips for these types of latency problems:

Ensure a bandwidth reservation
Utilize a multi-protocol label switching (MPLS)
Create a policy-based network management

Outdated Network Router

As mentioned above, outdated routers can also negatively impact a phone system’s call quality. This type of problem can even happen when your system has an adequate bandwidth.

So when your PBX system has decreased its latency issues and increased its bandwidth, ongoing call quality issues are likely connected to your router. These days, businesses need top-quality routers to avoid all sorts of issues related to the Internet.

What is PABX System? A Comprehensive Guide

Time and technology have significantly changed the consumer telephony landscape, especially with the latest innovation being the VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) business phone system.

Now, business communication has become easy and cost-effective. The “IP” in VoIP marks the beginning of a new era of business communication, with the internet being the underlying transport technology and not cables.

Telephony technology like PABX systems generally uses Voice Over Internet Protocol to offer businesses enhanced global communication experiences.

What is PABX System?
PABX stands for Private Automatic Branch Exchange System. It is a business telephony system used for internal and external communication at a business. This is done through channels like analog, ISDN, or VoIP.

PABX allows businesses multiple extensions with a single extension number. This mitigates the need to use multiple landlines linked to the public network, which is a costlier alternative.

A Private Automated Branch Exchange system can be connected to several devices in an organization. And each of these devices have a designated extension number.

PABX phone systems are available as virtual or hosted solutions and as on-premise solutions to be run on your hardware. They are generally owned and administered by the hosting company.

They are the preferred choice of telephony for many call centers, SMBs, startups, and large enterprises.

PABX vs PBX: What are the differences?
Many people are often unclear about what a PABX system actually means, as the term is relatively new and often used interchangeably with PBX. Both PBX and PABX are types of private telephone switching systems, but they aren’t the same.

The following table breaks down the key differences between PBX and PABX, highlighting how PABX offers enhanced capabilities compared to its predecessor.

How does a PABX system work?
PABX helps optimize how a business communicates internally, with external stakeholders, and with customers.

A PABX works as a personal, internal phone network that houses modems, adapters, routers, telephone handsets, and even fax machines.

how does PABX works

This mitigates the need to access any external public network when making calls inside the organization.

The caller dials a relevant extension number, taking them to a particular receiving line.
An Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system now plays pre-recorded options and prompts the caller to either speak or press a button to respond. It will analyze the response and automatically route it to the relevant department.
The outgoing calls will, however, need to connect to the public network through trunk lines. These trunk lines are shared by staff members across extensions and handsets. This might cause quality issues during high-frequency call times.

To tackle this, business phone systems are now rapidly moving toward the cloud. This internet-based infrastructure mitigates the need for heavy copper wiring and junction connections apart from offering a seamless calling experience.

Moreover, cloud systems auto-update and manage networks directly from a remote computer terminal or a smartphone. This helps the extension lines to operate optimally.

Cloud-based PBAX also connects to a shared team list rather than one handset. So, in case of an agent’s unavailability, the next available agent can fill in.

Additionally, businesses can make and receive calls globally at a cost-effective rate. VoIP calls help companies cater to international audiences, effectively collaborate with offshore stakeholders and manage remote teams.

Benefits of PABX
The PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) phone system provides several advantages that boost communication efficiency and streamline business operations. Here are the key benefits of using a PABX phone system:

1. Centralized Management: PABX systems offer centralized control over telecommunication activities, enabling administrators to manage settings and configurations from a single interface.

2. Cost Savings: With a PABX phone system, businesses save on costs by reducing the need for multiple phone lines and lowering maintenance expenses due to centralized infrastructure.

3. Advanced Features: PABX systems offer advanced features like voicemail, call forwarding, IVR, conferencing, and call recording, enhancing communication capabilities beyond basic phone systems.

4. Remote Accessibility: Users can access the PABX phone system remotely, allowing teams to make and receive calls from any location, which supports flexible and hybrid work environments.

5. Scalability: Easily scale the PABX system as your business grows. Add or modify extensions without major hardware upgrades, making it ideal for growing teams.

6. Improved Internal Communication: A PABX phone system enables seamless internal communication with direct extension dialing, increasing productivity and team collaboration.

Essential Features of a PABX System
Before you invest in a PABX system, you need to ensure that the system has these main features.

Essential business phone system features

Auto Attendant: Aka digital receptionist connects callers to the desired extension number automatically.
Automatic Ring Back: Enables agents to pre-dial an active phone line and get a call back whenever the line goes free.
Call Parking: Allows staff to hold an outgoing call in a specific telephone unit and then continue the conversation on a different device.
Call Barging: Enables a supervisor to monitor and enter the conference bridge silently.
Call Pick-up: Allows any staff to pick up the call and answer on behalf of a different recipient.
Call Recording: Recording feature for documentation, legal, monitoring, training, or other purposes.
Call Waiting: Enables admin to handle multiple ongoing calls at once.
Do Not Disturb (DND): To block unnecessary calls at any specific time point.
Gamification: Give your sales reps the much-needed recognition and rewards to motivate them to do more.
IVR (Interactive Voice Response): A smarter auto attendant where callers can self-serve for common queries.
Post-Call Surveys: To measure client satisfaction and optimize your agents’ performance.
Ring Groups: Group multiple extension numbers into one. It enables multiple phones to ring simultaneously or in a sequence.
Shared inbox: To increase visibility into all customer-agent communication.
Smart Switch: Get different telephony service providers to mitigate all your call connectivity issues.
Speed Dialing: Using shortcuts for extension numbers to easily remember the contact details of departments or staff members.
Voicemail: So you never miss out on a question or a complaint

Evolution of PABX
The evolution of the PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) phone system reflects the significant advancements in business communication technology over time, moving from manual switchboards to automated and internet-connected systems.

Evolution of pabx

1. The Manual PBX Era (Early 20th Century)
PBX systems originated as manual exchanges, requiring operators to physically connect calls by plugging wires into switchboards. This setup helped businesses manage internal calls and connect with outside lines efficiently, though it demanded extensive labor and expertise.

2. Analog PABX – The First Step in Automation (Mid 20th Century)
As technology progressed, businesses adopted Analog PABX systems, which automated some switching functions but still relied on analog circuits and signals. Analog PABX systems could route calls within a private network and connect to external lines more efficiently, though their capacity was limited, and audio quality could be inconsistent.

3. Digital PABX – Advancing with Computer Technology (Late 20th Century)
The shift from analog to digital technology marked a significant leap in PABX capabilities. Digital PABX systems converted voice signals into digital data, enhancing call quality and enabling advanced features like voicemail, call forwarding, and conferencing. Digital systems allowed for more reliable performance and opened the door to seamless integration with other digital business tools.

4. IP-PABX – Internet Protocol Integration (Early 21st Century)
IP-PABX brought another level of innovation by leveraging Internet Protocol (IP) to route calls over the Internet. This integration allowed PABX systems to support Voice over IP (VoIP), enabling remote accessibility and easier scalability. Employees could now make and receive calls from any internet-enabled device, supporting modern work-from-anywhere models.

5. Cloud PABX – The Modern Solution (2010s-present)
Cloud PABX, or Cloud PBX, represents the latest stage in PABX evolution, offering all the functionality of traditional PABX with the added benefits of cloud computing. By hosting the PABX infrastructure in the cloud, businesses avoid the cost and complexity of on-site hardware, while gaining greater flexibility, automatic updates, and accessibility from any location.

6. Future Trends in PABX Technology
Looking forward, PABX systems are likely to integrate AI, omnichannel capabilities, and advanced analytics. AI could automate customer interactions, provide predictive insights, and optimize call routing. Future PABX systems may unify voice, messaging, email, and social media, creating a seamless communication platform for businesses.

Pros and Cons of PBX and PABX
Private Branch Exchange Systems (PBX) and Private Automatic Branch Exchange Systems (PABX) are two commonly interchanged terms. Rightly so because the only difference between the two is automated switching.

Let’s understand the main pros and cons of PBX and PABX:

Private Branch Exchange (PBX)
The PBX system is the “legacy” system that was found in all workspaces after 1950, making POTS altogether oblivious. PBX fundamentally works on a landline network and uses manual switchboard operators to connect calls in an organization – internally and externally.

Why do SMEs Need to Adopt Cloud PBX Phone Systems?

Pros
Houses more features than the plain old telephone system
Mitigated the need for installing multiple phone lines.
Cons
Efficiency decreases in manual operations.
Long holds.
No special features.
Reliant on the landline telephone network.
Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX)
As technology progressed, business communications developed. First-generation PABX phones allowed users to connect by merely pressing extension codes on their phones.

Business telephone technologies

After the advent of the internet, VoIP PABX systems became the first choice of all. They offered revolutionary features and benefits.

Pros
No need to install complex copper wiring.
Enjoy almost instant connections.
One PABX system suffices for all branches of a business, even globally.
Softphones or VoIP software can be installed on personal computers and mobile devices.
Extra efficiency-improving features.
Automatic upgrades.
Low-cost hardware.
Cons
Requires constant internet connection stability
What Does PABX Have To Do With IP Communications?
PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) systems are essential tools for managing business phone networks. Traditionally, PABX systems connected internal phone lines within a company to external telephone networks.

However, as communication technology evolved, so did the way PABX systems operated. This is where IP communications come into play.

1. The Role of IP in PABX Systems
IP communications refer to transmitting voice, video, and data over the Internet Protocol (IP), primarily through VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).

IP-based communication systems use the Internet instead of traditional telephone lines to send and receive data. This is where IP-PABX comes in—integrating PABX systems with IP technology to route calls over the internet rather than conventional phone lines.

2. IP-PABX: The Bridge Between PABX and IP Communications
An IP-PABX, also known as a VoIP-based PABX, combines the traditional PABX functionality with the power of IP communications.

In an IP-PABX system, calls are transmitted over the internet, significantly reducing the cost of long-distance communication and enabling features like video conferencing and more advanced call routing.

3. IP-PABX and Cloud-Based Solutions
With Cloud PBX, businesses can access their phone system from anywhere, anytime, with no need for on-site hardware or infrastructure.

This system is managed and maintained by third-party cloud providers, who handle all the updates and technical support.

How to choose the right PABX System for your small business?
If you are a small business and are interested in choosing the right PABX system for you, here are the things you should consider beforehand:

A. Which type of PABX system are you going to choose?
There are many types of PABX systems you can choose from depending on your particular business needs:

1. Traditional PABX phone system
Landline-based and depends on a physical hardware box.
A Low-grade PBX system which is sufficient for small businesses only if they operate from one location.
The hardware of this PBX requires more space and regular maintenance.
Considering the hardware costs, they are extremely expensive.
2. Digital PABX
Can deploy both a traditional analog PABX system and IP phones.
Better sound quality than traditional PABX.
3. On-site IP PABX
Uses ethernet cables to connect the telephones offering a hassle-free experience if you move your office.
Equipped with advanced functionalities like call stability, voicemail to email, video calling, mobile integration, call accounting, disaster recovery, and others.
Unsuitable for startups and SMBs due to high installation and hardware charges.
4. Cloud-based/Hosted PABX
Supports both inbound and outbound calls.
Offers virtual international phone numbers, the best option if your business is global.
No hardware purchase or set up fee. Only a low monthly fee makes it an extremely viable option for all businesses.
5. Virtual PABX
A lighter version of the cloud-based PABX phone systems.
Would not have some non-essential features.
The most cost-effective option for small- and- mid-sized businesses, even if they are global.
B. Are you getting a unified communications framework?
Employees now need a flexible and agile work environment. It is only wise to deploy cross-channel telephone systems that employees can access from anywhere. All they need is a high-speed internet connection.

Reporting capability and analytical tools are also important features of an SMB’s phone service. Managers can key metrics such as average call duration, call wait time, and agent performance. This promotes visibility and facilitates better strategic decisions.

C. Do you need third-party integrations?
If you do, then you will likely need integrations between those tools and your phone system.

Look for a PABX system that offers easy multiple third-party integrations with tools like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Zendesk, Intercom, and more.

Third-party integrations allow you to automatically sync data from your communication tool to other systems. This increases productivity reduces human error and ensures compliance.

For instance, post a customer interaction, customers’ details, their queries, and who supported them will be automatically stored in the CRM. These insights can be later on used to offer tailored experiences.

D. Is it scalable?
It is known how important scalability is for growing businesses. You might have to scale your operations or workforce up or down, and your technology must support that. IP PABX offers significantly more scalability than cloud PABX systems because physical systems require adding more hardware as businesses grow.

E. What’s the quality of customer support?
While discussing features and technology, it is common to miss out on considering the quality of customer support. Regardless of the PABX system you choose, you will need support. So, ensure that your service provider is easily approachable and that they have good customer success measures in place.

F. Speak to your staff
It is vital to speak with staff to understand their needs and expectations from the new phone system – layout the features and benefits to them.

Suppose you may require them to use their phones to stay online on the go. Ensure you have their buy-in.

Changing the phone system is a simple yet disruptive long-term change. Having everyone on the same page is essential for success.

Conclusion
We hope you will now understand the basics of a PABX system, its types, how it differs from a PBX system and how you can leverage it to boost efficiency at the workplace and in general. To book a demo for a VoIP PABX system, click here.

FAQs
1. Should You Setup Your Own PABX System or Opt for a Hosted One?
An on-cloud or hosted PABX system is today’s most sought-after business phone system. Since hosted PABX systems are on the cloud, they use ethernet and need no complicated wiring. You also don’t need to invest in hardware, as these systems can easily connect with yours.

2. What are the advantages of automating your PBX?
Automating your PBX business phone systems can help you save resources. For example, it can allow you to employ your staff in more complex tasks rather than working on a switchboard. In addition, you can mitigate problems that follow human error. You also save time as PABX systems have no long call wait times, and it connects to the receiving line instantly.

Everything You Need to Know About PABX or Intercomm System (Complete Guide)

PABX Communication systems are essential for offices worldwide. Whether it’s a large corporation or a small business, having an internal phone network is vital. The arrival of PABX – the Private Automatic Branch Exchange method – has changed everything.

In the past, landline phones were the primary means of business communication, but they had limitations such as power outages and high costs from service providers. Most business communications capabilities are made possible by implementing private branch exchange (or PBX) systems, but they require operators to manage calls manually.

PABX system not only significantly reduces communication costs for businesses but also enhances the interconnectedness of systems and response times. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between PBX and PABX and how you can implement these solutions in your business.

What is PABX and what does it stand for?

We’ve already established that PABX stands for Private Automatic Branch Exchange. It is like a mini-telephone network within a company or organization.

Imagine you have a big office with many employees, and everyone needs to make calls to each other and to people outside the office. Instead of each person having a direct line to the outside world, everyone is connected to a central system—the PABX.

Before PABX came along, businesses had to use human operators to connect calls by hand. This process was time-consuming and lacked efficiency. PABX systems made this whole process automatic.

Private: This means it’s a system that is used by a specific group or organization, and not available to the public.
Automated: The system is computer-controlled, which means it can handle tasks like routing calls without the need for a human operator.
Branch Exchange: This is a term that comes from the days of manual telephone exchanges. In modern terms, it refers to the central point where calls are managed and distributed within the organization.

Originally, PABX systems were connected to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). This meant that all outgoing calls were routed through traditional telephone lines, which were managed by telecom companies. Over time, as technology evolved, many PABX systems started transitioning to Session Initiation Protocol (SIP).

PABX vs. PBX: What’s the Difference?

Nowadays, the terms Private Branch Exchange (PBX) and Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX) are used almost interchangeably. This is because in essence, they serve similar fundamental purposes, but the automation and advanced features of PABX systems represent a significant evolution from the older, manual PBX systems.

Initially, PBX telephone systems were manually operated, requiring human operators to connect calls. With technological advancements, PABX systems emerged, automating the call routing process and adding more sophisticated features. Today, many PABX systems have transitioned to IP-PBX, which uses internet protocols for communication, offering even more flexibility and cost savings.

Summary of Differences

Manual vs. Automatic: Traditional PBX systems require manual operation, while PABX systems automate call routing and management.
Features and Complexity: PABX systems typically offer more advanced features and capabilities compared to traditional PBX systems.
Technology Integration: PABX systems are more likely to integrate with modern digital communication technologies.

How Exactly Does a PABX System Work?

Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX) was made possible by the arrival of the capability to electronically switch between calls without the need for manual operators. This advancement was the key to developing a phone system that would completely do away with the need for hiring people to do the menial task of answering and transferring incoming calls.

Without getting too much into the technicalities, PABX systems, in their most basic version, make use of extension numbers, which are assigned to each VoIP phone and analog phone in a given office. For example, if you’d like to make a call to one of your co-workers who’s in his office next door, the only thing you’d have to do was type in the extension number on your PABX-enabled phone, and the call would directly go through to the receiver.

Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX) systems have fixed that by removing the middlemen (operators) while keeping the structure of PBX systems intact. Phone extension numbers remained, but the switchboard was replaced with buttons placed directly on the telephones themselves, allowing any employee to carry out internal phone calls without waiting in line for what sometimes felt like an eternity. Modern PABX systems make use of IP-based phones, and companies providing these services often base their entire functionality around internet connection, removing the need for installing phone lines altogether.

Evolution of PABX System

Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX) systems have undergone significant transformations since their inception, evolving from manual switchboard operations to sophisticated digital and cloud-based solutions. This evolution reflects advancements in telecommunications technology and changing business communication needs.

Early Beginnings: Analog PBX Systems

PBX systems started in the late 1800s when businesses used manual switchboards to handle internal calls. They relied on analog signals and copper wires to link phones to a central unit. Early PBX systems were big, costly, and needed operators to manually connect calls. Because of their high cost, only large organizations could afford to install and maintain them.

Transition to Automation: The Rise of PABX

By the 1960s, the need for more efficient communication led to the development of Private Automatic Branch Exchanges (PABX). These systems automated the call routing process, eliminating the need for human operators. Early PABX systems allowed businesses to place internal calls without occupying external phone lines, significantly reducing communication costs and increasing efficiency.

Technological Advancements: From Analog to Digital

The 1970s marked a pivotal shift with the introduction of digital PABX systems. Unlike their analog predecessors, digital systems utilized digital signals, enabling better call quality, more extensions, and advanced features such as call routing and voicemail. This transition also made it easier for businesses to scale their communication systems as needed.

The VoIP Revolution: Cloud-Based PABX

The advent of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in the late 1990s further transformed PABX technology. Cloud-based PABX solutions emerged, allowing businesses to operate without extensive on-premise hardware. These modern systems leverage internet protocols for voice communication, enabling limitless scalability and integration with various multimedia applications.

Summary of The Evolution:

Era	Key Features	Technology Used
Manual PBX	Manual call routing by operators	Analog switchboards
Early PABX	Automated internal calling	Early electronic switches
Digital PABX	Enhanced call quality, advanced routing	Digital signals
Cloud-based PABX	Scalability, multimedia communication	VoIP and internet protocols

Benefits of Using PABX Systems

Cost Efficiency: PABX systems reduce call and operational costs through automation and VoIP technology, making communication more affordable for businesses.
Scalability: Easily expandable, PABX systems allow businesses to add or remove lines and extensions as needed, supporting growth and changing requirements.
Advanced Features: PABX offers features like auto-attendant, call routing, conference calling, and voicemail, enhancing communication and customer service.
Improved Productivity: Integration with CRM and unified communications streamlines workflows, enhancing overall productivity and efficiency within the organization
Centralized Control: PABX systems provide a centralized point of control for managing all telecommunication activities, making it easier to oversee and adjust settings as needed.

PABX: Most Important Features

In our increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, the need for fast, reliable connectivity should be prioritized above anything else. This is especially important in business environments, where minutes (or even seconds) of hesitation or lengthy session initiation can end up costing thousands of dollars.

An increasing number of companies have been utilizing voice over IP (internet protocol) technology to achieve the best results possible. Small businesses are especially looking for cost-effective digital voice solutions. It may be difficult to decide on the right communication service for your business without understanding its main features.

Some of the main characteristics include:

Effortless call transferring
Constant connectivity independent from any phone service provider
Using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) for the best call quality possible
Adjustable to the needs of your business

Some advanced features include：

Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
Auto Attendant
Call Recording
Conference Call
Voicemail
Call waiting
Call Center

How To Choose the Right PABX Systems

When selecting a Private Automatic Branch Exchange system, several key considerations must be taken into account to ensure it meets your business needs effectively. Here are the primary factors to consider:

Business Requirements: This involves understanding your current size, the number of employees, and anticipated growth, ensuring the system you choose can scale accordingly. Additionally, estimating the average daily call volume will help determine the necessary capacity.
Features and Functionality: Essential features include call forwarding, voicemail, call waiting, and caller ID. Advanced features such as auto-attendant, call recording, conferencing, and CRM integration can significantly enhance business operations. Ensure the system supports remote and mobile workers and is scalable to accommodate future growth.
Budget and Cost: Evaluate the initial costs, including hardware, installation, and setup fees, as well as ongoing costs such as maintenance, upgrades, and monthly service charges. Conduct a cost-benefit analysis to ensure the investment is justified by the anticipated benefits and efficiencies.
Reliability and Support: Research the reputation of potential vendors for reliability and customer service. Ensure that 24/7 technical support is available with quick response times, and understand the warranty and service level agreements (SLAs) to ensure comprehensive coverage for repairs and maintenance.
Security: Ensure the PABX system has robust data protection measures to guard against breaches. Additionally, check for disaster recovery options and data backup solutions to safeguard your business communications in case of emergencies.
User-friendliness: The system should have an intuitive interface that is easy for both administrators and employees to use. Ensure that training materials and resources are readily available to help users get up to speed quickly and efficiently.

KADIS.COM.NG Solutions for Your Unified Communication Needs

Private automatic branch exchange (PABX) systems, just like any other product or service, come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Not all of them will perfectly align with your business needs.

KADIS.COM.NG solutions are incredibly versatile, making our PABX offer one of the broadest ones in the industry. You can choose between an on-premises VoIP PBX system, granting you the ultimate and complete control over the unified communications at your office. If you want an easy option, our cloud-based PBX system is great for businesses of any size. It offers a reliable UC service without the need for equipment maintenance.

Choose KADIS.COM.NG solutions for unified communications to improve and maintain seamless connectivity in your office. Regardless of the service you select. This choice will benefit your office for a long time.

Take your business communications to the next level with KADIS.COM.NG

CALL OR WHATSAPP 08061379390 OR 08024207231

What is PABX System? A Comprehensive Guide and What you Must know About PABX/Intercom

What is PABX System? A Comprehensive Guide

Time and technology have significantly changed the consumer telephony landscape, especially with the latest innovation being the VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) business phone system.

Telephony technology like PABX systems generally uses Voice Over Internet Protocol to offer businesses enhanced global communication experiences.

What is PABX System?

PABX stands for Private Automatic Branch Exchange System. It is a business telephony system used for internal and external communication at a business. This is done through channels like analog, ISDN, or VoIP.

PABX allows businesses multiple extensions with a single extension number. This mitigates the need to use multiple landlines linked to the public network, which is a costlier alternative.

A Private Automated Branch Exchange system can be connected to several devices in an organization. And each of these devices have a designated extension number.

PABX phone systems are available as virtual or hosted solutions and as on-premise solutions to be run on your hardware. They are generally owned and administered by the hosting company.

They are the preferred choice of telephony for many call centers, SMBs, startups, and large enterprises.

PABX vs PBX: What are the differences?

Many people are often unclear about what a PABX system actually means, as the term is relatively new and often used interchangeably with PBX. Both PBX and PABX are types of private telephone switching systems, but they aren’t the same.

The following table breaks down the key differences between PBX and PABX, highlighting how PABX offers enhanced capabilities compared to its predecessor.

Feature	PBX (Private Branch Exchange)	PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange)
Definition	Private telephone network	Private automated telephone network
Technology	Uses analog technology	Uses digital technology
Switching System	Manual, using physical switchboards	Electronic, automated switching
Automation	Manual (originally required operators)	Fully automated, and no operators are needed.
Setup & Maintenance	Complex setup requires on-site maintenance	Easy setup, with remote management capabilities
Cost Efficiency	Higher operational costs due to maintenance and hardware upgrades	Cost-effective with lower maintenance costs and automatic updates
Flexibility	Hard to modify	Supports integration with VoIP and cloud solutions
Ideal Use Cases	Mostly outdated, mainly of historical interest	Preferred for businesses of all sizes using modern phone systems
Remote Accessibility	Limited to the physical location	Accessible remotely from any internet-connected device

How does a PABX system work?

PABX helps optimize how a business communicates internally, with external stakeholders, and with customers.

A PABX works as a personal, internal phone network that houses modems, adapters, routers, telephone handsets, and even fax machines.

how does PABX works

This mitigates the need to access any external public network when making calls inside the organization.

The caller dials a relevant extension number, taking them to a particular receiving line.
An Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system now plays pre-recorded options and prompts the caller to either speak or press a button to respond. It will analyze the response and automatically route it to the relevant department.

The outgoing calls will, however, need to connect to the public network through trunk lines. These trunk lines are shared by staff members across extensions and handsets. This might cause quality issues during high-frequency call times.

Moreover, cloud systems auto-update and manage networks directly from a remote computer terminal or a smartphone. This helps the extension lines to operate optimally.

Cloud-based PBAX also connects to a shared team list rather than one handset. So, in case of an agent’s unavailability, the next available agent can fill in.

Benefits of PABX

The PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) phone system provides several advantages that boost communication efficiency and streamline business operations. Here are the key benefits of using a PABX phone system:

1. Centralized Management: PABX systems offer centralized control over telecommunication activities, enabling administrators to manage settings and configurations from a single interface.

2. Cost Savings: With a PABX phone system, businesses save on costs by reducing the need for multiple phone lines and lowering maintenance expenses due to centralized infrastructure.

3. Advanced Features: PABX systems offer advanced features like voicemail, call forwarding, IVR, conferencing, and call recording, enhancing communication capabilities beyond basic phone systems.

4. Remote Accessibility: Users can access the PABX phone system remotely, allowing teams to make and receive calls from any location, which supports flexible and hybrid work environments.

5. Scalability: Easily scale the PABX system as your business grows. Add or modify extensions without major hardware upgrades, making it ideal for growing teams.

6. Improved Internal Communication: A PABX phone system enables seamless internal communication with direct extension dialing, increasing productivity and team collaboration.

Essential Features of a PABX System

Before you invest in a PABX system, you need to ensure that the system has these main features.

Auto Attendant: Aka digital receptionist connects callers to the desired extension number automatically.
Automatic Ring Back: Enables agents to pre-dial an active phone line and get a call back whenever the line goes free.
Call Parking: Allows staff to hold an outgoing call in a specific telephone unit and then continue the conversation on a different device.
Call Barging: Enables a supervisor to monitor and enter the conference bridge silently.
Call Pick-up: Allows any staff to pick up the call and answer on behalf of a different recipient.
Call Recording: Recording feature for documentation, legal, monitoring, training, or other purposes.
Call Waiting: Enables admin to handle multiple ongoing calls at once.
Do Not Disturb (DND): To block unnecessary calls at any specific time point.
Gamification: Give your sales reps the much-needed recognition and rewards to motivate them to do more.
IVR (Interactive Voice Response): A smarter auto attendant where callers can self-serve for common queries.
Post-Call Surveys: To measure client satisfaction and optimize your agents’ performance.
Ring Groups: Group multiple extension numbers into one. It enables multiple phones to ring simultaneously or in a sequence.
Shared inbox: To increase visibility into all customer-agent communication.
Smart Switch: Get different telephony service providers to mitigate all your call connectivity issues.
Speed Dialing: Using shortcuts for extension numbers to easily remember the contact details of departments or staff members.
Voicemail: So you never miss out on a question or a complaint

Evolution of PABX

The evolution of the PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) phone system reflects the significant advancements in business communication technology over time, moving from manual switchboards to automated and internet-connected systems.

1. The Manual PBX Era (Early 20th Century)

PBX systems originated as manual exchanges, requiring operators to physically connect calls by plugging wires into switchboards. This setup helped businesses manage internal calls and connect with outside lines efficiently, though it demanded extensive labor and expertise.

2. Analog PABX – The First Step in Automation (Mid 20th Century)

As technology progressed, businesses adopted Analog PABX systems, which automated some switching functions but still relied on analog circuits and signals. Analog PABX systems could route calls within a private network and connect to external lines more efficiently, though their capacity was limited, and audio quality could be inconsistent.

3. Digital PABX – Advancing with Computer Technology (Late 20th Century)

The shift from analog to digital technology marked a significant leap in PABX capabilities. Digital PABX systems converted voice signals into digital data, enhancing call quality and enabling advanced features like voicemail, call forwarding, and conferencing. Digital systems allowed for more reliable performance and opened the door to seamless integration with other digital business tools.

4. IP-PABX – Internet Protocol Integration (Early 21st Century)

IP-PABX brought another level of innovation by leveraging Internet Protocol (IP) to route calls over the Internet. This integration allowed PABX systems to support Voice over IP (VoIP), enabling remote accessibility and easier scalability. Employees could now make and receive calls from any internet-enabled device, supporting modern work-from-anywhere models.

5. Cloud PABX – The Modern Solution (2010s-present)

Cloud PABX, or Cloud PBX, represents the latest stage in PABX evolution, offering all the functionality of traditional PABX with the added benefits of cloud computing. By hosting the PABX infrastructure in the cloud, businesses avoid the cost and complexity of on-site hardware, while gaining greater flexibility, automatic updates, and accessibility from any location.

6. Future Trends in PABX Technology

Looking forward, PABX systems are likely to integrate AI, omnichannel capabilities, and advanced analytics. AI could automate customer interactions, provide predictive insights, and optimize call routing. Future PABX systems may unify voice, messaging, email, and social media, creating a seamless communication platform for businesses.

Pros and Cons of PBX and PABX

Private Branch Exchange Systems (PBX) and Private Automatic Branch Exchange Systems (PABX) are two commonly interchanged terms. Rightly so because the only difference between the two is automated switching.

Let’s understand the main pros and cons of PBX and PABX:

Private Branch Exchange (PBX)

The PBX system is the “legacy” system that was found in all workspaces after 1950, making POTS altogether oblivious. PBX fundamentally works on a landline network and uses manual switchboard operators to connect calls in an organization – internally and externally.

Pros

Houses more features than the plain old telephone system
Mitigated the need for installing multiple phone lines.

Cons

Efficiency decreases in manual operations.
Long holds.
No special features.
Reliant on the landline telephone network.

Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX)

As technology progressed, business communications developed. First-generation PABX phones allowed users to connect by merely pressing extension codes on their phones.

After the advent of the internet, VoIP PABX systems became the first choice of all. They offered revolutionary features and benefits.

Pros

No need to install complex copper wiring.
Enjoy almost instant connections.
One PABX system suffices for all branches of a business, even globally.
Softphones or VoIP software can be installed on personal computers and mobile devices.
Extra efficiency-improving features.
Automatic upgrades.
Low-cost hardware.

Cons

Requires constant internet connection stability

What Does PABX Have To Do With IP Communications?

PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) systems are essential tools for managing business phone networks. Traditionally, PABX systems connected internal phone lines within a company to external telephone networks.

However, as communication technology evolved, so did the way PABX systems operated. This is where IP communications come into play.

1. The Role of IP in PABX Systems

IP communications refer to transmitting voice, video, and data over the Internet Protocol (IP), primarily through VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).

2. IP-PABX: The Bridge Between PABX and IP Communications

An IP-PABX, also known as a VoIP-based PABX, combines the traditional PABX functionality with the power of IP communications.

3. IP-PABX and Cloud-Based Solutions

With Cloud PBX, businesses can access their phone system from anywhere, anytime, with no need for on-site hardware or infrastructure.

This system is managed and maintained by third-party cloud providers, who handle all the updates and technical support.

How to choose the right PABX System for your small business?

If you are a small business and are interested in choosing the right PABX system for you, here are the things you should consider beforehand:

A. Which type of PABX system are you going to choose?

There are many types of PABX systems you can choose from depending on your particular business needs:

1. Traditional PABX phone system

Landline-based and depends on a physical hardware box.
A Low-grade PBX system which is sufficient for small businesses only if they operate from one location.
The hardware of this PBX requires more space and regular maintenance.
Considering the hardware costs, they are extremely expensive.

2. Digital PABX

Can deploy both a traditional analog PABX system and IP phones.
Better sound quality than traditional PABX.

3. On-site IP PABX

Uses ethernet cables to connect the telephones offering a hassle-free experience if you move your office.
Equipped with advanced functionalities like call stability, voicemail to email, video calling, mobile integration, call accounting, disaster recovery, and others.
Unsuitable for startups and SMBs due to high installation and hardware charges.

4. Cloud-based/Hosted PABX

Supports both inbound and outbound calls.
Offers virtual international phone numbers, the best option if your business is global.
No hardware purchase or set up fee. Only a low monthly fee makes it an extremely viable option for all businesses.

5. Virtual PABX

A lighter version of the cloud-based PABX phone systems.
Would not have some non-essential features.
The most cost-effective option for small- and- mid-sized businesses, even if they are global.

B. Are you getting a unified communications framework?

Employees now need a flexible and agile work environment. It is only wise to deploy cross-channel telephone systems that employees can access from anywhere. All they need is a high-speed internet connection.

C. Do you need third-party integrations?

If you do, then you will likely need integrations between those tools and your phone system.

Look for a PABX system that offers easy multiple third-party integrations with tools like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Zendesk, Intercom, and more.

Third-party integrations allow you to automatically sync data from your communication tool to other systems. This increases productivity reduces human error and ensures compliance.

D. Is it scalable?

It is known how important scalability is for growing businesses. You might have to scale your operations or workforce up or down, and your technology must support that. IP PABX offers significantly more scalability than cloud PABX systems because physical systems require adding more hardware as businesses grow.

E. What’s the quality of customer support?

While discussing features and technology, it is common to miss out on considering the quality of customer support. Regardless of the PABX system you choose, you will need support. So, ensure that your service provider is easily approachable and that they have good customer success measures in place.

F. Speak to your staff

It is vital to speak with staff to understand their needs and expectations from the new phone system – layout the features and benefits to them.

Suppose you may require them to use their phones to stay online on the go. Ensure you have their buy-in.

Changing the phone system is a simple yet disruptive long-term change. Having everyone on the same page is essential for success.

Conclusion

We hope you will now understand the basics of a PABX system, its types, how it differs from a PBX system and how you can leverage it to boost efficiency at the workplace and in general. To book a demo for a VoIP PABX system, click here.

FAQs

1. Should You Setup Your Own PABX System or Opt for a Hosted One?

An on-cloud or hosted PABX system is today’s most sought-after business phone system. Since hosted PABX systems are on the cloud, they use ethernet and need no complicated wiring. You also don’t need to invest in hardware, as these systems can easily connect with yours.

2. What are the advantages of automating your PBX?

Automating your PBX business phone systems can help you save resources. For example, it can allow you to employ your staff in more complex tasks rather than working on a switchboard. In addition, you can mitigate problems that follow human error. You also save time as PABX systems have no long call wait times, and it connects to the receiving line instantly.

Take your business communications to the next level with KADIS.COM.NG

CALL OR WHATSAPP 08061379390 OR 08024207231

5 Steps on How to Fix PBX System Issues

PBX Troubleshooting Guide - Beginners to Advanced - Featured Image

PBX (Private Branch Exchange) is a business phone system that helps companies overcome the physical limitations of a traditional telephone system. Everyone from a small business to a large enterprise can benefit from it.

You no longer have to rely on copper wires or spend a fortune on your communications. Thanks to PBX, companies can expand to new locations easily and serve their customers well wherever they are.

When you can clearly communicate with your employees, customers, and partners, you set yourself up for success. A flexible phone system is essential to make it happen.

But what if you experience echoes, busy signals, dropped calls, or audio issues?

If you’ve experienced these issues with your PBX phone system, there’s one thing you should know: there’s no reason to panic!

The causes of these issues are usually easy to identify and solve. In this article, we’ll lay the foundations of PBX systems, take you through some common issues with call quality, and show you how to fix them.

Jitter
Slow internet connection
Latency
Bad or inadequate router
Network interference
5 steps to fix your PBX phone system

Types of PBX Phone Systems

1) Analog (legacy) PBX phone system

Analog PBX pre-dates the internet. It connects externally to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) with wiring and internally by extending the calls in the same way through the office PBX equipment.

It’s quite limiting compared to its digital counterpart. It’s a good option if you’re only looking to hold, mute, redial, or speed dial your calls. If you want to have additional call features or connect your phone system to emails and a CRM, you may look further.

2) On-premises PBX phone system

On-premise PBX, also known as an IP PBX, means you have PBX equipment on-site. The main difference to the analog PBX system is that IP routing is done with more current technology. The signaling is done with an IP phone to the IP PBX server.

On-premise PBX gives you modern call features while making the most of the equipment you already own. It’s also extremely safe. The downside? Its deployment and maintenance come with a steep price tag.

3) Hosted PBX phone system

Hosted PBX is a phone system entirely based in the cloud. It doesn’t require you to have on-site equipment—your service provider runs everything. There are no extra training and maintenance costs.

It’s a great option if you’re looking to scale or have remote employees. Of all PBX phone systems, hosted PBX is the easiest to get started with.

What Can Go Wrong in a VoIP System?

Your PBX phone system is a feature-rich setup that powers your business communication. That includes everything from crisp audio and video to messaging and emails.

Because these communication channels use the same network, some call quality issues may come up. In the next sections, we’ll break down the common PBX issues you can troubleshoot, and a step-by-step process to do so.

Before we give you the steps to find what might be wrong with your PBX phone system, let’s quickly go over some common PBX issues and what causes them.

Problem #1: Jitter

Call quality issues related to jitter manifest as disarranged sound. These issues happen because of the way phone calls are transferred over the internet.

When you’re on a call, your voice is converted into data packets. They’re sent over the internet to their destination—the person you’re speaking with. When there’s a delay in transmission, these data packets can get jumbled or have gaps.

You can fix high jitter with a jitter buffer. A jitter buffer temporarily stores data packets in the right sequence and transmits them in intervals. As a result, clear audio reaches its recipient with minimum delay.

Problem #2: Slow internet connection

Have bandwidth issues after switching to VoIP phone systems? There’s a chance your current bandwidth can’t handle the amount of data that needs to be transferred for VoIP calls to work.

Bandwidth is like a pipe: the more of it you have, the more information can travel down the pipe at once. Most internet service providers (ISP) offer bandwidth that works well for regular internet surfing, but not for an entire phone system to work smoothly.

We recommend that you have at least 100kbps of bandwidth per phone—business internet service providers offer it. Keep in mind that your other devices, such as printers, computers, fax machines, and credit card machines also utilize your bandwidth.

Problem #3: Latency

Do you find that you and your caller are talking over each other, and you can hear your own voice on the call? Also known as latency or VoIP delay, it’s a delay between when one person says something and the other person hearing it.

There are a few types of latency that happen on VoIP calls: propagation delay, handling delay, and queuing delay.

Latency can be solved and prevented by prioritizing VoIP traffic. Here are several ways this can be done:

Bandwidth reservation
Policy-based network management
Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS)

Prioritizing VoIP traffic over the network will improve both latency and jitter.

Problem #4: Bad or inadequate router

Your network is configured correctly, and your bandwidth is sufficient. Then, the issue might be in your router.

Your router must be fast, compatible with your hardware, and able to prioritize VoIP traffic. Specialized VoIP routers are a great, cost-effective way to ensure the best call quality.

If your router isn’t configured for packet prioritization, other activity on your network can lower your call quality. For example, if you’re on a call and someone else is watching a webinar or downloading a large file, your call quality could suffer.

Problem #5: Network interference

If you run your VoIP service concurrently with a data network over the same hardware, you may encounter bandwidth limitations. This is because both the data network and the voice network compete for resources.

These limitations can manifest as sound cutting in and out over the phone.

Two possible solutions include:

Configuring the network into separate VLANs so you can prioritize the data from the voice network over the data network
Utilizing a Quality of Service (QoS) feature of your business-class network to prioritize voice data

As a result, you’ll experience stable, quality phone calls every time.

Troubleshooting PBX Phone Systems in 5 Steps

With these common PBX issues in mind, here are the steps you can take to identify them. After that, you’ll know exactly what to do to fix your PBX system.

1) Check all device connections

First, make sure that your devices are connected to a power supply and the network. Check if all of your hardware, including phones, routers, and adapters, are plugged in correctly, including the power cords and network/telephone cords.

Remember also to check if all the lights on these devices are on. In case a device is plugged in, but isn’t receiving power (due to a faulty power socket, for example), this is how you’ll find it and know it needs to be fixed or replaced.

If all your devices are powered up, move onto the next step.

2) Reset your PBX and your hardware

Reset your PBX hardware. You can do this by unplugging the main cord for one minute.

Reset your equipment (phones and routers) as well by unplugging all power cords for 10 seconds.

Once you plug everything back in, wait for all the lights to turn back on. This will clear any fundamental issues that may have caused poor call quality. If any of your devices haven’t powered back up, flag it for repair or replacement.

If everything works fine, move onto the third step.

3) Run a bandwidth speed test

With a speed test, you’ll learn if your network is compatible with VoIP. Inadequate bandwidth and other connectivity issues limit the number of VoIP phones you can have. There may also be an issue with data packet transmission.

Nextiva has a simple and easy-to-use VoIP speed test. With it, you can uncover your:

Download and upload speed: Remember that you need around 100kbps of bandwidth for each phone you have
Ping: A packet loss test will shed light on potential network issues
Jitter: If it’s higher than 15-20ms, it can increase latency and result in packet loss

If you identify issues with any of the above, your solutions will include talking to your internet service provider (ISP) about increasing your bandwidth or getting a jitter buffer if you don’t have one.

No issues here? Jump to the next step.

4) Confirm your router has prioritized VoIP traffic

As we mentioned earlier, your router should be able to prioritize VoIP traffic, and your network configuration should be set up in the right way to enable it.

If your router has that option but isn’t set up correctly, start with this guide and your router’s manual to set it up.
If this isn’t an option with your existing router, it might be time to upgrade it to a quality VoIP router.

By this point, you’ve probably identified your PBX issues and the steps to fix them. If not, there’s one final step to take.

5) Use the logs in your PBX

Log into your PBX dashboard to view any errors that may have happened with your PBX.

In your PBX system, look for a section that shows you a log of events and messages about your PBX.

If you see any messages that indicate an error, open them to find dates, times, and details on that error, as well as the current status. You can then relay this message to your PBX administrator.

Gain Control Over Your Call Quality

Running your communications over the internet means you can grow and scale your business easily while serving your customers well.

If you come across some call quality issues, you now know they’re easy to identify as long as you follow our five simple steps to fix your PBX system. Even better, you can do most of the process on your own.

That means you can get back to running your business better than before.

Tired of your fixing an unreliable PBX? Upgrade to the cloud. We’ve got your back!

The best cloud PBX phone system for SMBs.

Get cloud-based VoIP, SMS messaging, and video conferencing in one solution. Take your business communications to the next level with KADIS.COM.NG

CALL OR WHATSAPP 08061379390 OR 08024207231

Troubleshooting PBX Phone System Issues Without Technical Assistance

Phone communications are an integral part of every business, and PBX (Private Branch Exchange) makes it easier for you to interact with your customers over the call. Plus, it helps overcome the limitations of the traditional business phone system.

Virtual PBX phone system offers advanced features and enables you to expand to new locations easily. Plus, they don’t typically require much maintenance after the initial investment.

However, no system is 100% foolproof, and issues do occur sometimes. And when that happens, you’ll need to troubleshoot them to ensure uninterrupted communications.

If you’ve experienced issues with your PBX phone system, this guide is for you. We will discuss the common hosted PBX issues, the reason behind them, and how to solve them (without any technical assistance). Let’s get started!

Different Types of PBX Phone Systems

As of now, there are three types of PBX phone systems for businesses. It includes:

1- Traditional PBX Phone System

Legacy PBX phone systems connect externally to the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) with wiring. It also uses wires to extend the calls within the office. As a result, it is quite limited in terms of features, flexibility, and scalability. Traditional PBX phone systems are extremely expensive as compared to IP PBX phone systems to set up.

2- On-Premises PBX Phone System

Also known as IP PBX, on-premises PBX phone systems offer more features and flexibility than legacy PBX systems. Besides, when you get a PBX phone system, you can use the equipment you already own (i.e., telephone). Also, it uses the internet to route calls.

3- Hosted PBX Phone System

Also known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), hosted PBX runs through the internet. It doesn’t require you to purchase any equipment or hardware to manage phone communications.

Of all the PBX phone systems, hosted PBX is the best option as it allows you to get started right away and doesn’t require any special equipment.

Common Issues in PBX Systems

Since PBX phone systems run through the internet, some issues are unavoidable (though they don’t happen very often). That said, let’s look at the common problems in hosted small business phone systems.

1- Jitter

Call quality issues related to jitter can result in disarranged sound. Since the phone calls happen over the internet, your system sends voice signals as data packets to the recipient’s phone, which then converts the packets into voice again. When there’s a delay in transmitting these data packets, the voice sounds disarranged.

You can fix this issue with a jitter buffer. A jitter buffer stores data packets in the proper sequence and transmits them accordingly, ensuring clear audio with minimum delay.

2- Unwanted Busy Signals

You would not want your customers to hear a busy tone every time they call your company. However, many times PBX phone systems show busy signals deterring away customers and hurting their experience.

In most cases, the problem is linked with the system’s wiring. Make sure the devices are appropriately connected to a power supply. Consider restarting your telephone by unplugging the power cord for at least one minute.

3- Bandwidth Issues

Even though the cost of a PBX phone system isn’t much, you need to invest in a high-quality internet connection. If not, you’ll likely experience low bandwidth across all your VoIP lines.

Low bandwidth means less information will travel through the internet, negatively affecting your call quality. Most internet providers offer bandwidth that works well for regular internet activities but not for calling using a PBX system.

Contact your internet provider and ensure you have at least 100Kbps of bandwidth per phone (but the more, the better).

4- Incorrect Call Placement

Are calls not connecting to the right department or employee? Well, this is the easiest to fix. All you have to do is reconfigure your IVR (Interactive Voice Response) system. Visit your PBX system’s admin panel and reset the rules. Then, create new rules for redirecting the calls, and you’re good to go.

5- Latency

Do you ever hear your own voice when talking to someone? That’s latency. It refers to the delay between when you say something and the other person hears it.

In VoIP calls, there are three major types of latency:

Propagation delay
Handling delay
Queueing delay

Here’s how you can solve these latency issues:

Implement policy-based network management
Leverage multi-protocol label switching (MPLS)
Ensure bandwidth reservation

6- Outdated Router

Last but not least, a bad or inadequate router can affect your call quality even if you have sufficient bandwidth.

If you face issues even after increasing bandwidth and decreasing latency, your router is probably at fault. Specialized VoIP routers can help solve these problems and ensure the best possible call quality.

Also, ensure your router is configured for packet prioritization. If not, it will affect your call quality. For example, if any of your employees are watching a webinar or downloading a large file, your call quality will suffer.

Steps to Troubleshoot PBX Phone System Issues

Now that you know the common issues, follow these steps to solve almost all these problems without technical assistance.

Step #1- Ensure Your Devices are Connected Properly

As mentioned above, in most cases, the issue is with the connection. Check if all your hardware (phones, routers, power cords, and adapters) is plugged in perfectly. Also, ensure you don’t have any loose connection, or it will affect your operations mid-way.

Step #2- Reset Your PBX Hardware

Resetting your PBX hardware will solve any fundamental issue that may have been affecting the call quality or connection problems. You can reset your PBX hardware by unplugging them for at least 15 seconds.

Once you plug everything back in, wait for the light to turn on. If any of your devices doesn’t turn back on, inform your provider and get it repaired or replaced.

Step #3- Test Your Bandwidth

A bandwidth test will help determine if your network is compatible with VoIP. Inadequate bandwidth will affect the call quality and limit the number of VoIP connections you can have.

Remember, you need at least 100Kbps of bandwidth for each phone. Also, if your ping is higher than 15-20ms, it can increase latency, resulting in packet loss.

If you have issues with bandwidth or ping, contact your internet service provider.

Step #4 – Prioritize VoIP Traffic

As mentioned above, if your router doesn’t prioritize VoIP traffic, all your resources (other tools that use the internet) will fight for resources. Therefore, set your network configuration to prioritize VoIP traffic. If your current router doesn’t allow you to do that, it’s time to upgrade it.

Step #5: Check Your Configurations

If any of the above solutions don’t work, log into your PBX system to check if there’s an issue with the configuration. You can even consider resetting your PBX system from the admin panel to solve any problems.

Wrapping Up

PBX systems give you the flexibility to grow and scale your business communications easily. It even offers advanced features to help you better serve your customers. When you invest in a hosted small business phone system, you eliminate all the hardware issues.

However, if you face any issues with your PBX phone system, follow the steps mentioned above to resolve them.

Did we miss any PBX phone system issues? Let us know in the comments, and we will provide a solution!

Take your business communications to the next level with KADIS.COM.NG

CALL OR WHATSAPP 08061379390 OR 08024207231

Common CCTV Problems and Solutions or How to Fix Them

It can be hard understanding the problems that occur with your CCTV, which is why our friendly team have put together a guide to help you to fix the issues.

1. Verify camera power and connection

Sometimes a problem can be as simple as a disconnected lead and it might even be that the network is currently down. Internet protocol (IP) cameras generally have LED indicators that are used for transmitting data across to the network but this might be hidden inside the camera.

If the LEDs on the camera are not lighting up, you should check to see if the camera is powered externally (plugged into the wall). Should your camera be powered via electricity and not battery, you will want to check that the camera is receiving the appropriate wattage as a complicated camera such as a pan-tilt-zoom, will require more watts that a normal plug will supply.

2. Discover and ping camera

Find out your camera’s IP address by checking the camera’s directory. Once you find your address you will be able to ping it using your laptop or smartphone to test the strength of the connection.

Type ‘cmd’ into windows search engine and this should open a DOS command prompt. When this pops up, you will be asked to type in ‘ping’ and your IP address.

You may see either’ Request Time Out’ or ‘Destination Host Unreachable’ appear on the screen. If it does, check to see if the device you are using is on the same network as your camera. If you do see the camera on the network, attempt to connect using your browser.

3. Know username / password

If you can ping the camera but find yourself unable to connect then it’s possible that you have typed in the wrong login or password. If this is the cause, you will want to refer to the manual.

4. Check ARP tables

Check Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) tables, usually located on the outside of the camera. It is possible to cross reference MAC and IP addresses using the ARP.

5. Confirm no IP conflict

If you have more than one camera you need to make sure that they have different IP addresses as this can stop you from accessing one or all cameras.

6. Upgrade firmware

See to it that your camera is up to date. You can do this by connecting to VMS and accessing the cameras web page.

7. Reboot camera

Sometimes its the first thing we do – turn the system off for 10-20 seconds and input your settings again.

8. Check cabling

Make sure that the cables are straight and firmly intact, because if there are knots or loose cables this could be the root of your problem.

9. Factory reset camera

This can be a drastic thing to do as you can lose all of your history but this process will help to troubleshoot any issues. A factory reset can be done simply by pushing a paperclip into the pinhole reset button located at the back.

10. Call manufacturer or remote monitoring provider for support

If you’re ever unsure, seek help from an expert who can help you every step of the way.

Take confidence in our team here at Caught On Camera – we’re here to provide you with experience, simple instruction and a helpful, friendly service.

We are the leading suppliers and installers throughout these areas and provide each and every customer with high quality CCTV security systems to cater to a range of budgets for domestic, commercial, industrial and retail customers. Give us a call today.

How to fix common CCTV camera problems

If you’re having problems with your Dahua CCTV cameras, this is a quick guide to common problems with Dahua cameras and how to fix. N.B. if you have continued problems with your Dahua CCTV system, get in touch with our team here (this is a paid service).

Cross stripe or diagonal stripe appears in the image of IPC.

Bad connection for the video cable. Check or test with a different cable, connection and port.
Strong current interference. Check if there are other devices causing this issue. It could be the cable too close to another device. Mounting the camera on a metal surface can cause current interference from bleeding electrical currents.
A ground loop can be causing the stripes. Ground loops occur for a few different reasons but this issue will always present itself in the form of horizontal lines running across your screen (hum bars).Faulty power supplies and/or faulty cable are frequent culprits but improper wiring in the home/building is much more common. If you discover that your image problems are related to the power supply or cable, you simply need to swap them out. However, if bad wiring in the structure is found to be the problem, locating it and then having someone fix it is not exactly a quick or cheap fix. This is where ground loop isolators come in. They’re simple plug-and-play adapters that attach to the back of your camera and then filter this electrical noise out of your video feed.
Power Supply. There are several things that can go wrong with a power supply but related problems will always appear in your video as “rolling lines.” These are horizontal lines across your screen that will normally move from bottom to top; lines moving in the opposite are not unheard of so don’t rule it out. The image from your camera will remain behind these lines and will not move with them. This can often be confused with the lines you can get from a ground loop problem, but the lines caused by a group loop will remain in a single static position.

I connect the general analog camera to the device, there is no video output.

There are following possibilities:

Check camera power supplying, data cable connection and etc. There might not be sufficient power from the power source. You can use a voltage tester if you have one on hand.
Check the length of cable run. Refer to the specifications for the limitations on the cable length.
This series device does not support the analog camera of all brands. Please make sure the device supports general standard definition analog camera.
If there is no video, check the coax connection. Unsecured faulty connections will result in no video or intermittent video.

SD card failed to store video.

Check if the SD card status is set as read only status, if so; you need to change it to read/write status.
Check if the SD card can be detected.
Check if the SD card has been damaged.
Check if the SD card is full, if it shows that the residual space is 0, you can format the SD card by WEB interface or check “Cover” in the “Storage management > Video control > hard disk full” of the WEB interface.
Check if the model is compatible with an SD card. Though it might have an SD card slot there might not be SD card reader inside.

IP Camera failed to recognise SD card.

SD card might be loose. Which would case the IP camera not to read recognise the SD card. Check if the SD card is secure.
Check if there is SD card connection pins. Some models may have the slot with no connection pins. If this is the case please refer to the specifications and place of purchase.
Check if the SD card in the computer is recognisable and there is no abnormality.
It is possible the SD card is bad. Try the SD card in other devices to see if it is recognised. It is possible the connections of the SD card are damaged. If this is the case, refer to the place of purchase.

When IR light is on for the HD or SD IR dome, the image is abnormal, such as reflective image or white and unclear image.

Solution: Use the IR-blocking ring of the lens, or reinstall the light-blocking ring to a proper position.

Why is my camera damaged from leaking water?

Users dismantled the front cover and rear cover by themselves, which were not installed properly.
The front cover glass is strongly pressed or crashed.
The waterproof plug of rear cover is loose

Still need help?

SmartCamera are specialists in AI CCTV, and provide a CCTV support service & install service for UK-based customers.

Get in touch with our team here if you need help >>

Common CCTV Problems and How to Fix Them

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems are essential for home and business security. However, like any other technology, they are prone to occasional issues that can compromise their effectiveness. Recognizing these problems and addressing them promptly can help maintain the system’s functionality and ensure safety. Here are some common CCTV problems and their solutions:

Blurry or Distorted Images

Cause:

Dirty or smudged camera lenses.
Improper focus or low-quality cameras.

Solution:

Regularly clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner.
Adjust the focus settings.
Upgrade to higher-resolution cameras if image quality remains poor.

No Video Signal

Cause:

Faulty cables or loose connections.
Damaged power supply or video output.

Solution:

Check all cable connections to ensure they are secure.
Replace damaged cables or connectors.
Test the power supply and replace it if needed.

Night Vision Not Working Properly

Cause:

Infrared (IR) lights are obstructed or not functioning.
Camera placement causes reflections or insufficient IR range.

Solution:

Remove any obstructions blocking the IR lights.
Adjust the camera angle to reduce glare or reflection.
Ensure the IR LEDs are operational and replace them if necessary.

Flickering Video or Screen

Cause:

Loose cables or electrical interference.
Power supply issues.

Solution:

Secure all cable connections and ensure no wires are frayed.
Use a regulated power supply.
Relocate cables away from other electronic devices to minimize interference.

Hard Drive or DVR Not Recording

Cause:

Insufficient storage space or corrupted hard drive.
Incorrect recording settings.

Solution:

Clear old footage or upgrade to a larger hard drive.
Check the DVR/NVR settings to ensure continuous or motion-based recording is enabled.

See also The Benefits of Cloud-Based CCTV Systems for Nigerian Businesses

Camera Not Detecting Motion

Cause:

Sensitivity settings are too low.
The motion detection feature is disabled.

Solution:

Adjust the sensitivity settings in the system software.
Enable motion detection in the camera’s configuration menu.

Unauthorized Access or Hacked System

Cause:

Weak passwords or outdated firmware.

Solution:

Use strong, unique passwords for your system.
Regularly update the firmware to patch vulnerabilities.
Secure your network with encryption and firewall settings.

Water Damage to Outdoor Cameras

Cause:

Inadequate weatherproofing or exposure to extreme conditions.

Solution:

Install cameras with proper IP-rated weatherproof housing.
Use weatherproof seals and covers to protect connections.

Time and Date Settings Are Incorrect

Cause:

Power outages or improper system configuration.

Solution:

Reset the time and date settings in the system menu.
Use the auto-sync feature to keep them updated.

Poor Network Connectivity for IP Cameras

Cause:

Weak Wi-Fi signal or bandwidth limitations.

Solution:

Place cameras closer to the router or use Wi-Fi extenders.
Upgrade to a higher bandwidth internet plan if needed.

Conclusion

A properly functioning CCTV system is a cornerstone of security for homes and businesses. Addressing common issues promptly ensures uninterrupted surveillance and peace of mind. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, firmware updates, and system checks, can go a long way in preventing these problems.

If you’re facing persistent issues or need expert assistance, Core-Power Limited specializes in CCTV installation, repair, and maintenance. With a track record of quality service in Nigeria, we’re here to help you safeguard your property effectively. Contact us today to ensure your CCTV system operates at its best!

Phone no: 08061379390 or 08024207231

5 Diagnostic Tests for Electric Fence Troubleshooting

There’s a moment you have when you realize your cattle or other livestock have breached your electric fence. In that moment – the same moment you’re chasing after your animals as they fan out over the countryside – you wonder “What went wrong with the fence?”

FENCE NOT WORKING? KADIS IS HERE TO HELP

You can save yourself these kind of headaches by regularly testing your fence and addressing issues as they arise. When you find your fence has lost power, is running low voltage or has dropped a charge somewhere along your fence line, you will need to find out what went wrong.

KADIS.COM.NG Systems has five helpful diagnostic tests to suggest for your electric fence troubleshooting. It’s best to test a system in the order presented here so that the issues that cause broad problems are checked first. We recommend having a fence tester ready so that you can properly test your fence. KADIS.COM.NG Systems offers a variety of fence testers for your needs.

TEST ONE – BATTERY/POWER CHECK

electric fence testing guide — **Test 1 – Battery & Power Check**

If your fence has completely depowered, your battery or power source may be at fault. Here is how to determine whether power is being delivered from your power sources.

Outlets – Your fence tester can’t be used on an outlet, but a simple test is to plug in another electrical device (such as a light) into the outlet and check if that works. If that item doesn’t power up properly, consult an electrician. The outlet should be delivering between 105 to 125 volts to the charger.
Solar – Use your voltage tester to measure your battery voltage. If it is underperforming, you may need to replace it. The batteries inside solar chargers are meant to last about 1,000 days (3 years), and after that point, it’s advised that you obtain a new one. Further, a solar battery could lose its charge after an extended time without sunlight or minimal sunlight. A 12-volt battery should test at 12 volts to properly energize a charger. A 6-volt or 6/12-volt battery should show a minimum of 6 volts in a test.
Battery – If you have a battery-operated, non-solar, DC fence charger, you should check your DC battery to see if it is delivering the appropriate charge. Your battery may have been drained by a short somewhere along the fence or if animals are frequently testing the fence, so check for shorts before reconnecting this battery.

TEST TWO — TERMINAL TEST

The terminals are the posts used to attach the hook-up wires to the energizer. Testing these posts can help determine if the energizer is properly outputting energy.

STEP 1 – Power: Turn off the power to the energizer.
STEP 2 – Disconnect: Disconnect both hook-up wires from the charger.
STEP 3 – Power On: Turn the power back on.
STEP 4 – Test: Check the voltage output with your voltage tester.
STEP 5 – Under 2,000 Volts: There is a fault in the energizer
STEP 6 – Over 2,000 Volts: The energizer is operating properly. Move on to Test Three.

TEST THREE — GROUND ROD TEST

A lot of poor-performing fence systems can be blamed on inadequate ground systems. Every system should have at least three ground rods to perform properly. More ground rods should be installed if your electric fence is installed in sandy, dry or rocky soil. Frozen soil will also hinder the operation of your fence.

To test your ground rod system:

STEP 1 – Power: Connect your fence and ground hook-up wires, then turn the power on.
STEP 2 – Check Voltage: Use your Fence Doctor to read the voltage on the ground wire.
STEP 3 – Over 400 Volts: If over 400 volts, your ground rod is leaking too much voltage. Add extra ground rods or make them deeper. Test again after making these adjustments.
STEP 4 – Under 400 Volts: The system is sufficiently grounded. Move on to Test Four.

TEST FOUR — HOOK-UP WIRE TEST

Your electric fence’s hook-up wire is the line that leads from your energizer’s positive terminal to your fence. A second hook-up wire runs from the negative terminal to your first ground rod. Both of these need to be securely connected to the charger and their final destination. Likewise, conductivity must be fully established.

To test these wires, follow these steps:

Step 1 – Power: Turn off your power to your charger.
Step 2 – Secure: Check both connections (positive-to-fence and negative-to-ground rod) and make sure they are securely attached. If one or more has come loose, reattach, turn your power back on and see if this resolves your issue. If not, continue to Step 3.
Step 3 – Disconnect: Keep the hook-up line connected to the terminal and disconnect it from the fence (leave the ground rod hook-up completely attached).
Step 4 – Test: Turn the power on. Then, using your voltage tester, check the output of the hook-up wire that is normally attached to the fence.
Step 5 – Less than 1,500 Volts: If the reading is less than 1,500 volts, your hook-up wire is accidentally grounding itself in some way. You should ensure that you are using a 20 KV insulated wire. Turn the power off, replace this wire and recheck your reading.
Step 6 – More than 1,500 Volts: If the voltage on the hook-up wire reads more than 1,500 volts, the hook-up wire is fine. Reconnect this line to the fence and move to Test Five.

TEST FIVE — FENCE TEST

When you have eliminated all other options, it’s time to take a good look along the length of your fence.

Step One – Power: Turn the power on.
Step Two – Walk and Test: Every 100 feet or so, test your line. If you get no reading or a low reading, back up 50 feet test again and try to find where the drop begins.
Alternative: Get a KADIS.COM.NG Fence Doctor, which will indicate the direction of the fault so you can find it quicker.
Tip One: Be aware that the longer your fence, the more voltage drop you should expect at the most-distant portions of your fence.
Tip Two: If the voltage drop along a lengthy fence is too much, you may want to buy a more powerful charger or set up a second fence fueled by another charger.

ELECTRIC FENCE TROUBLESHOOTING – WHAT TO LOOK FOR

After Test Five, you may determine that your fence has a short somewhere and you will have to walk your fence line. Shorts can be created by numerous situations, so be sure to consider all of the following as you make your survey:

TPost Gate handle Anchor

Are the Hook-up Wires Firmly Attached? – These wires can make or break your fence, make sure all your fasteners are attached.
Are the Jumpers Between Lines Connected Properly? – Jumper wires carry voltage from one fence wire to another, often between gates, at corners or in multiple wire situations. If one wire is hot, and another shows no charge, check your jumper wire for a good connection.
Are Splicers and Splices Providing a Good Connection? – When you perform fence repairs or need to extend a line, you may opt to install a connector or make a splice directly with your wire. Even if these appear to be secure, they may not be making a good connection, so check for voltage before and after the splice.
Is the Fence Leaking Voltage into the Earth? – You want to look to see if a shovel or other object was left leaning against the fence. Such an object would lead to a short.
Is Vegetation Touching the Line? – If a plant – whether it’s a weed growing up from below the fence, a bush growing into the fence, or a branch resting on the fence – will drain voltage from your electric fence. Clear these items from the fence and maintain a regular schedule of trimming these plants.
Are Gates Properly Wired to Connect Over the Gap? – One of the biggest trouble spots for fencing (after improper grounding) is trouble with wiring around and under gates. Check for good connections and that wire bridging the gap is remaining hot.
Are the Proper Insulators Installed? – If you are using insulators
that are not built specifically for the brand or wire style you’re using, then they may not properly insulate the electricity from being grounded by your fence posts.
Are the Insulators Damaged, Cracked or Dirty? – Damaged and cracked insulators can create shorts or drain voltage on your fence. Be prepared to replace individual insulators during your regular survey of your fence line. Insulators can be damaged by prolonged exposure to sun and temperature variations as well as stresses to the fence line, such as an animal attempting to run through the fence or a tree collapsing on it. Dust and cobwebs can also create problems with insulators.
Is the Wire, Polyrope or Polytape Touching a Fencepost Somewhere? – Check to see if your wire got dislodged from an insulator somewhere along the fence. If your wire comes in direct contact with a fencepost, it will short out.

Fence trouble? Be sure to check for connections around your gates, whether they are electrified or not. Electrified gates can lose a connection over time, and insulated wires running under non-electric gates may deteriorate.

How to Troubleshoot Electric Fence Problems and Then Fix them!

I have approximately 20 acres enclosed by a high tensile electric fence. I put it up myself and have been troubleshooting this electric fence for about three years now. These are my lessons learned about how to troubleshoot electric fence problems.

It is a constant struggle to keep an electric fence working. Between trees falling on it, weeds growing up it, lightning striking it, and wear and tear on the insulators, you can expect to maintain it a few hours each month. The good news? This is a great excuse to go on a walk with your dogs (while carrying a bundle of tools with you).

Here are all the ways my fence has broken, and how I fixed it, and how I am trying to prevent future problems.

First question: When you put in the fence originally, was the charge good?

When I first put in my fence, I had almost no faults. My fence charger showed 14.1, which I think translates to 14,100 volts. To put things into perspective, these fence chargers are effective deterrence against cattle down to a reading of 2.0. Horses will avoid the fence down to 0.5 or even lower.

If you answered NO – that you never had a good charge on your fence, then you need to ask whether your wires are insulated properly, or whether there are major design flaws. This may not be fixable without rebuilding some of your fence.

In particular, be careful how you string the brace wire on your corner posts. If you aren’t careful with how you route it, this wire will lie against your fence wires (causing a short). Normally you want the brace wire to be on the inside compared to other fence wires.

If you answered YES – that you once had a good charge (like the picture of the fence charger above), but over time your voltage has dropped, then it should be fixable. Read on!

Is your electric fence grounded correctly?

Electric fence chargers need to be connected to the ground with a long metal rod. Most manufacturers say that you need three 8′ (2.8m) ground rods pounded into the ground, spaced several feet (2m) apart. If your fence is less powerful during dry weather, it is a sign that your grounding system needs help.

Tips for testing your electric fence

Using a Zareba voltage tester to see if the fence is live.

You can purchase a voltage tester at your local farm store. Hook the top end to your electric fence, plug the bottom end into the ground, and see whether lights flash. This is a slow, annoying way to test your fence because you have to plug it into the ground each time. More expensive testers will show you a digital readout instead of lights.

No fence tester? No problem.

A word of caution: This advice is from my own experience. I’m not an expert. Perform at your own risk. If you are wearing a pacemaker or getting zapped would be really bad, don’t do any of these things.

Electric fences for farms send very short “pulses” of electricity across the wire. Normally one pulse per second, and each pulse lasts a tiny fraction of a second. This is meant to allow the animal (or human) to get away from the fence before they are shocked again. If you have a fence charger, you probably have heard it clicking like a metronome. Each click is a pulse.

Electric fences are not meant to do permanent harm to animals (or humans). The voltage can be very high, but the amperage is low. Amps is what causes harm when we get shocked. Amperage should ideally by around 1. Voltage should be around 2,000 to 15,000.

I’ve been shocked at full strength (10,000+ volts) a few times. Not recommended!!! My most memorable shock actually left small entry and exit marks (they looked like small ashy circles with a burnt dot in the center). I haven’t had any long-term damage but I don’t want to repeat the experience!

The Badass Method for testing electric fences

Ye olde rubber boots, AKA “Muck boots”. Available for $20 at your farm store. They provide significant protection against shocks.

Find some tall rubber boots and wear them. Assuming they don’t have holes, the grass isn’t higher than your boots, and you aren’t touching anything that could act as a ground, you will be mostly protected against shocks. This means that you will feel the zap in your finger, but it won’t go through your entire body like a lightning bolt. I have been known to test fences directly with my hand while wearing rubber boots.

This method is very impressive to people who don’t realize you are wearing rubber boots.

The Grass Method for testing electric fences

Testing electric fences without a tester. Picture of a hand holding a grass stem against electric fence. There is about 10 inches between the fence and the hand.

Start with a long blade of grass (at least 6 inches long). Hold one end, and lay the other end on your electric fence. You probably won’t be able to feel anything at max extension.

Picture of a hand holding a grass stem against electric fence. There is about 3 inches between the fence and the hand. Used to troubleshoot electric fences.

Slowly choke up on your grass stem. As you get closer to the fence, you will start feeling a very light zap in your fingers. This means the fence is on. Stronger voltage and wearing (or not wearing) rubber boots will change the distance you can feel a zap.

Use the grass method to test your fence when you don’t have rubber boots or you want to avoid pain. Pluck a long stem of green grass (ideally 10 inches or longer), and hold one end of it. Dangle the other end against your electric fence. Normally you won’t feel anything at this point. Slowly push the stem toward the fence so that there is less distance between your hand and the fence. At some point, you will start feeling a very faint zap. The closer you are before you feel the zap, the lower voltage and/or the more conductive your grass stem is.

Troubleshooting your electric fence

Did your Fence Charger stop clicking, and looks powered off?

Lightning strike on the electric fence destroys the charger

If you had a thunderstorm last night, I have bad news for you. Lightning probably hit your fence and traveled along it to melt the charger. Your charger is dead.

What can you do to prevent this in the future?

Get a good warranty on your fence charger and keep the paperwork handy. Make sure the warranty protects against lightning strikes.*
Install a lightning arrester on your fence about 50-100 feet before it connects to the charger.
Use a surge protector between your electrical outlet and the fence charger.

Shows a lightning arrester for an electric fence. One side is connected to the fence wire, one side is connected to a ground. Once I started using this, I didn't have to fix my electric fence as often after lightning storms.

I use a Zareba Lightning Arrester. You connect one side to your electric wire, and one side to the ground. When lightning hits your electric fence, the electricity travels to this spot and then shortcuts to the ground by arcing across the arrester. As long as your fence charger is 50+ feet beyond this spot, it avoids the electricity.

Shows a lightning arrester for an electric fence. The ground side is connected to my existing non-electric fence. Because the non-electric fence is buried in the ground, it acts as a direct ground.

In my case, my non-electric fence is buried in the ground, so it works as a ground rod for my arrester. If you don’t have something like this, you should either bury your ground cable or install a ground rod.

My first year with electric fences, I had two chargers destroyed by lightning. I installed an arrester and haven’t had a problem in about 18 months.

* Don’t be like me and wait for shipping on a replacement charger. Get a new fence charger right away and install it. I had a cow escape my fence four days after the charger died. That stress was NOT worth saving a hundred bucks.

Blown fuse on the fence charger

Most fence chargers have a fuse inside them. This fuse limits the amperage, which is an important safety measure (getting electrocuted is not good). My fence chargers all use standard 1-amp fuses. These can normally be bought on the same store aisle as your charger. If in doubt, just replace it.

Lightning and blown fuses: When lightning hits a fence charger, the fuse will often explode. If you open up the fuse and shards of burnt glass fall out, it isn’t worth trying to fix it. Warranty repair and/or buy a new charger. I once spent a few hours trying to remove the pieces, clean out the compartment, and put a new fuse in – guess what, it didn’t work because the charger was melted on the inside.

If your fuse is just blown (it will look like it has smoke inside the glass), definitely try replacing it! This will often fix the issue. Since installing a lightning arrester, I’ve started to just get blown fuses instead of melted fence chargers. Big improvement.

Your power source isn’t working, so your fence charger is off.

If you use AC for your fence charger, make sure the power outlet is working. You may have to flip the breaker.

If you use batteries (solar or direct current) for your fence charger, make sure the battery is plugged in, the connections are polished, and your battery is charged up. The battery could also be frozen or missing battery fluid, etc.

Random note: I tried solar and found it lacking in juice. Not good for cows, they will ignore little zaps. I’ve only seen solar used successfully with horses.

GFCI outlets and electric fence chargers.

Were you amateur enough to use a GFCI outlet to power your fence charger? (I did this at first). Housing codes require that external power outlets are all protected by GFCI. Unfortunately, the act of zapping a critter is exactly what GFCI triggers on. It can feel the power flow into the ground and will shut down the circuit.

You need to get your charger off GFCI or it will keep shutting off. Luckily, this is pretty easy to do. Replace the GFCI outlet with a non-GFCI one. Then take steps to protect this outlet so that people can’t electrocute themselves by using it. For example, I have my outlet in a box that is physically locked shut to prevent access. You are responsible for complying (or not) with your local housing code.

Did the voltage on your electric fence drop to zero suddenly?

” alt=”An end-braced high tensile electric fence with a farm dog in the background. The brace wires travel near the high tensile wires and could cause grounding.” width=”616″ height=”567″ data-src=”https://dirtyfootfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/corner-bracing-posts.jpg” data-srcset=”https://www.dirtyfootfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/corner-bracing-posts.jpg 616w, https://www.dirtyfootfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/corner-bracing-posts-300×276.jpg 300w” data-sizes=”(max-width: 616px) 100vw, 616px” />

Whenever you have wires in close proximity to each other, they are likely to touch. Wires have an amazing way of breaking through anything you put in their way (such as plastic insulators, electrical tape, wood blocks, and zip ties). If your electric fence connects to a ground wire, your charger reading will suddenly drop to 0.

Pro tip: I find it more effective to pull wires away from each other (such as using zip ties or wire to pull non-energized wires into a bundle), than to put an insulator between touching wires.

If your voltage was humming along at say, 4.7, then suddenly dropped to 0, you have a direct ground problem.

Look for cables that fall and touch either the ground or a non-insulated wire.

This means that you have an excellent conductor (such as a metal wire) connecting directly from your electric fence to the ground. Or part of your electric fence has fallen to the ground. Or you use T-Posts and one of the insulators broke so the fence is touching the T-Post directly. This is an OK fix for cables that want to touch each other. At first, I tried to use electrical tape as an insulator. The shocks melted through the tape after a few months. This insulator will last a year or two before natural friction (caused by wind, storms, etc) wears through it.

A better solution would be to pull the brace wires together in the center using zip ties or flexible wire. This will keep the brace wires from touching your fence wires, and last much longer. I changed to this method (pulling brace wires together in the center) after a few years.

When you are putting in a new fence, there is a way to string the cross-brace wires so that they don’t touch your energized wires. I didn’t realize that when I was putting in the fence, so this year (2020) I finally re-strung the bad ones.

Is the fence voltage slowly dropping over time?

Fix electric fence – stuff is touching your wires!

When your voltage slowly drops, it means that you have lousy conductors touching your electric fence. A small amount of your voltage is traveling through these conductors to the ground, and is lost.

Long grass is the most common. I weed spray my fence lines with long-term weed killer to prevent this issue. It is tricky (and dangerous) to mow around high tensile fences, so I avoid it.
Fallen trees or limbs across the fence. If you live in a wooded area, you will have stuff fall on your fence.
Spider webs across the fence??? I think I’m just paranoid, but it makes me crazy when I see spider webs bridging between electrified and non-electrified parts of my fence.
Water or ice. If you have enough rain or sleet, the ice can bridge around your insulators and cause a temporary dip in your voltage.

Fix: Are your electric fence insulators broken?

Insulators are the plastic pieces that go between wood posts and your fence, T-posts and your fence, trees and your fence, or your fence and other wires. A well built electric fence should have insulators between the fence wire and everything else it touches, except for air. Over years, your insulators may fail. The metal staples used to attach insulators to wooden posts are the main reason for insulator failure.

Important: Wood is not a good insulator.

If I were to re-do my fence, I would be way more careful about how I hammer in the staples. It is extremely important to not dent the insulators.

Metal staples break electric fence insulators over time

You need some sort of plastic or ceramic insulator between your electric fence and the fence posts. Especially when it has been wet, your fence posts will conduct electricity to other strands of the fence, and/or to the ground.

This is a failed insulator on my property (the black tube). It was stapled to the tree, the tree grew, the staple wore through the plastic. The fence started losing power into the tree as a result. The yellow insulator is my fix. It is a 1×6″ T-Post insulator that I stapled into place. This should last a long time.

Finding staples that cause a ground fault

Metal staples can dig through plastic insulators over time. When this happens, the staple contacts your electric fence wire and provides a conduit to the wooden post. This is a major problem with my fence, and is hard to diagnose. The way I look for it is to touch each metal staple with my finger (see The Badass Method above) and if I feel a zap, it means the staple has worn through the insulator. To fix, use a screw-in insulator instead.

Testing to see if the staple has degraded the insulator. If the staple has broken the plastic and is contacting the electric fence wire, you will feel a zap in your finger. Or get a shock, if you aren’t wearing rubber boots.

Testing another insulator on an end post. When I built the fence, I didn’t realize that staples will wear through insulators over time. Try not to dent the plastic when you are hammering. End and corner post insulators should be held in place by upper and lower staples that are not tight.

Electric Fence Problems and Solutions from Kadis.com.ng

CCTV, Security Cameras, Access Control, Video Door Phones, Biometric Devices, Bio-metrics Attendance, Spy Gadgets, Automatic Gate, Electric Gate, Intercom, PABX, Burglary alarm systems, Fire Alarm Systems, Perimeter Intrusion Alarm, System, Electric Fence, Automobile/Car Tracker, DSTV, Free-To-Air, Satellite Systems

Electric fence problems often stem from issues with the energizer, grounding, or the fence itself. Common problems include low voltage, broken wires, faulty insulators, and poor grounding. Solutions involve checking the energizer’s power output, ensuring proper grounding with sufficient earth rods, repairing broken wires or insulators, and maintaining vegetation clearance to prevent grounding.

Common Electric Fence Problems and Solutions:

1. Low Voltage:
Problem: The energizer is not producing enough voltage to deter animals.

Solution:

Check the energizer’s power source (battery, solar, or mains) and connections.

Ensure the battery is adequately charged and connections are clean and secure.

Test the energizer’s output with a voltmeter or fault finder.

If the voltage is low, consider replacing the energizer or adding a more powerful one.

Ensure the fence is adequately grounded.
2. Broken or Shorted Wires:
Problem: Wires can break due to tension, friction, or damage. Shorts can occur when wires contact the ground, metal objects, or vegetation.

Solution:

Walk the fence line and visually inspect for breaks or shorts.

Repair broken wires by splicing or using connectors.

Remove any vegetation or objects touching the fence to prevent shorts.

Use insulated posts, especially at corners, to prevent shorts.
3. Faulty Insulators:
Problem: Insulators prevent the electricity from grounding out on the posts. If they are broken or damaged, voltage will leak, reducing the fence’s effectiveness.

Solution:

Inspect insulators for cracks, damage, or wear.

Replace any damaged insulators with new, high-quality ones.
4. Poor Grounding:
Problem: A poorly grounded fence will not provide a proper shock.

Solution:

Ensure the energizer is properly grounded with sufficient earth rods.

The earth rods should be placed in moist soil and spaced apart.

Test the grounding system with a voltmeter or fault finder.

If necessary, add more earth rods or deepen existing ones.
5. Vegetation Contact:
Problem: Grass, weeds, or other vegetation touching the fence can drain energy and reduce voltage.

Solution:

Clear vegetation from around the fence line.

Consider using a weed eater or herbicide to keep vegetation under control.

If vegetation is unavoidable, use taller insulators or raise the fence to prevent contact.
6. Energizer Problems:
Problem: The energizer may be faulty, leading to no output or reduced output.

Solution:

Check the energizer’s power source (battery, solar, or mains) and connections.

Consult the energizer’s manual for troubleshooting steps.

Consider replacing the energizer if it is faulty.
7. Loose Connections:
Problem: Loose connections can interrupt the flow of electricity.

Solution:

Check all connections, including those to the energizer, ground rods, and fence wires.

Tighten any loose connections and ensure they are secure.

Common Problems of Automatic Gate and Major Solutions in Resolving the Automatic Gate Problems

Common problems with automatic electric gates include the gate not opening or closing, slow or jerky movement, and unusual noises during operation. These issues can often be resolved by checking the power supply, ensuring the remote batteries are functional, inspecting for obstructions, and examining the sensors. If these simple checks don’t resolve the problem, professional assistance may be needed to diagnose and repair more complex issues like motor malfunctions or control board problems.

Common Problems and Solutions:

Gate Not Opening or Closing:
Possible Causes: Power outage, tripped circuit breakers, dead remote batteries, faulty receiver, obstructions in the track, or motor issues.

Solutions: Check power supply and circuit breakers, replace remote batteries, clear any obstructions, and manually operate the gate to check for motor problems.
Slow or Jerky Movement:
Possible Causes: Worn rollers or hinges, lack of lubrication, dirt and debris in the track, or motor problems.

Solutions: Lubricate moving parts, clean the track, and consider replacing worn components.
Unusual Noises During Operation:
Possible Causes: Misaligned tracks, loose or worn chains, rusted hinges, or motor strain.

Solutions: Inspect and realign tracks, tighten or replace chains, lubricate hinges, and consider motor replacement if necessary.
Faulty Sensors:
Possible Causes: Dirty or damaged sensors, misaligned sensors, or damaged wiring.

Solutions: Clean sensors, realign sensors, and inspect wiring for damage.
Interference:
Possible Cause: Interference from other devices using the same frequency.

Solution: Consider switching to a different frequency for the gate’s remote control.
Gate Not Responding to Remote:
Possible Causes: Dead remote batteries, faulty remote, or a faulty receiver.

Solutions: Replace batteries, try a different remote, or check the receiver.

When to Seek Professional Help:

If simple troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue.
If you suspect a motor problem or control board malfunction.
If the gate is making unusual noises or moving erratically.
If you are unsure about any part of the troubleshooting process.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regularly clean the gate track and sensors.
Lubricate moving parts periodically.
Inspect the gate for any signs of damage or wear.
Ensure the gate is properly aligned.

By following these troubleshooting steps and performing regular maintenance, you can help ensure your automatic electric gate operates smoothly and reliably automatic electric gates problem solution from adamsdoors.co.za

Contact KADIS.COM.NG on 08061379390 or 08024207231 for sales, installation and consultancy services

Five Common Automatic Gate Problems and How to Fix Them Properly

Automatic gates are popular not just for their convenience, but also for their added security in keeping your property safe. They can also enhance the curb appeal of your home or business. However, just like any machine, they can break down and encounter issues. In this article, we will discuss five common automatic gate problems and how to fix them.

1. The Gate is Not Responding to Remote Control

When the gate does not respond to the remote control or is only working intermittently, it’s possible that the gate operator’s batteries need to be replaced. Check the remote control batteries and replace them if necessary.

If the batteries are alright, check if there are any obstructions or debris blocking the gate’s photo-eyes or sensors. Photo-eyes are responsible for detecting if there are objects or people within the gate’s path. Check if they are correctly aligned and clean.

Another reason the gate may not be responding to the remote control could be due to interference from other electronic devices. Try moving the gate opener’s antenna to improve reception.

2. The Gate is Moving Slower Than Usual

If the gate appears to be dragging or slower than usual, there may be an issue with the gate opener’s motor. Check if there are any visible signs of damage or wear and tear, such as cracked or missing gears.

Next, check the gate’s tracks, wheels, and bearings. Over time, these components can accumulate dust, dirt, or debris, which can cause the gate to move slowly or get stuck.

Lubricate the gate’s moving parts with a silicone spray or lithium grease to remedy any friction that might be causing the slow movement. Also, ensure the gate’s rollers or bearings are clean and free of debris, and they roll evenly along the track.

3. The Gate is Not Opening or Closing

If the gate is not opening or closing, check the gate’s power supply first. Make sure that the gate’s circuit breaker or fuse is functioning correctly.

Next, check the wiring connections between the gate operator and the control panel. Ensure all connections are tightly secured and free of any corrosion or rusting.

Another reason the gate may not be opening or closing could be the limit switches. The limit switches are responsible for regulating the gate’s opening and closing positions. Check if the limit switch is working correctly by testing it on the control panel. If the switch is faulty, it may need to be replaced.

4. The Gate is Making Unusual Noises

Grinding or screeching sounds from the gate can indicate a severe problem. If the noise is coming from the gate opener’s motor, it may suggest that there is damage or wear and tear in the gear shafts. Lubricate the gear shaft properly with the right lubricant to solve the issue.

If the sound is coming from the gate’s hinges or metal parts, it could be an indication that the gate needs to be lubricated. Use a non-corrosive, rust protection lubricant to eliminate any sounds coming from the gate hinges or metal parts.

5. The Gate is Stuck Open or Closed

If the gate is stuck in the open or closed position, check if there are any physical obstructions, such as debris or objects blocking the gate’s wheels or track.

Also, inspect the gate’s wheels, track, and bearings to ensure they are functioning correctly. Any damages or malfunctions in these components can cause the gate to stick.

If the gate opener’s motor is overheating or overloaded, it can cause the gate to get stuck. Allow the motor to cool off for a few minutes before attempting to operate the gate again.

FAQs-

1. Can I fix automatic gate problems myself?

It depends on the severity and nature of the problem. Some automatic gate issues can be easily resolved without professional assistance, such as replacing remote control batteries or cleaning the gate’s moving parts. However, if the problem is more complex, it’s recommended to seek professional help. Trying to fix a problem without the right knowledge may lead to further damage or accidents.

2. How often should I lubricate my automatic gate?

It’s recommended to lubricate the gate’s moving parts, such as hinges and bearings, every six months or as necessary. This will extend the life of the gate and reduce the risk of malfunctions or breakdowns.

3. Can weather conditions affect the gate’s operation?

Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rains, snow, or heat, can damage the gate operator’s motor and affect its operation. It’s recommended to protect the gate’s control panel and motor from harsh weather conditions by installing protective elements, such as a seal or cover.

Conclusion:

Automatic gate problems can be frustrating and hinder the convenience and security they provide. However, by understanding the common problems and how to fix them, you can ensure that your gate works correctly and lasts longer. Remember to seek professional assistance when necessary and maintain your automatic gate regularly for optimal operation.

Monthly Archives: July 2025

Answers to Your Biometric Access Control Questions

Defining biometric access control

How biometric access control works

The features to look for

Cost

What is biometric access?

Types of biometric technologies for access control

How biometric access control systems work

Advantages of biometric access control

Sustainable biometrics and access control

Biometric access control use cases

Companies

Government

Healthcare

Education

Financial

Airports

Entry-Exit System (EES): document verification and biometrics

Is the biometric access control system secure?

Data encryption

Biometric multi-factor authentication

Liveness detection

Privacy and ethical concerns in access control

Importance of informed consent

What is the best biometric access control solution for your company?

How Biometric Access Control Systems Work

Core Components: Sensors, Databases, and Matching Engines

Authentication Process: Enrollment and Verification

Biometric Types

Fingerprint Recognition

Facial Recognition

Iris Scanning

Voice Authentication

Advantages of Biometric Systems

Enhanced Security and Authentication

Efficiency and Convenience

Elimination of Keys and Passwords

Challenges in Implementing Biometric Systems

Technical Compatibility Issues

Privacy and Data Protection Concerns

Cost and Budget Considerations

Integration with Existing Security Systems

Conclusion

1. How does access control work?

2. What are the benefits of access control?

3. Is it easy to manage my access control system?

4. How do access control systems improve security?

5. Which industries could benefit from an access control system?

Financial institutions

Multi-site businesses

Education providers

Healthcare services

6. How do I plan for access control installation?

7. How will access control make things easier?

Conclusion

Common PBX Phone System Issues & Troubleshooting Solutions

When a PBX phone system is experiencing issues, it’s important to know how to troubleshoot them!

Common PBX Phone System Issues & Troubleshooting Solutions

Jitter

Inadvertent Busy Signals

Bandwidth Troubles

Call Placement Issues

Latency

Outdated Network Router

What is PABX and what does it stand for?

PABX vs. PBX: What’s the Difference?

Summary of Differences

How Exactly Does a PABX System Work?

Evolution of PABX System

Early Beginnings: Analog PBX Systems

Transition to Automation: The Rise of PABX

Technological Advancements: From Analog to Digital

The VoIP Revolution: Cloud-Based PABX

Benefits of Using PABX Systems

PABX: Most Important Features

Some of the main characteristics include:

Some advanced features include：

How To Choose the Right PABX Systems

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