T1 Lines: What they're about

A T1 line or Trunk Level 1 line is not longer just for commercial use. Today, even some homes avail of this integrated system of data transfer and communication for personal purposes. Of course, this technology is far from new. T1 services have been around since the 1950s and now, numerous features are to be expected.

WHAT IS A T1 LINE?

A T1 line is basically a phone line that can transfer more data in high speed as compared to an ordinary landline or DSL connection—1.54 megabytes per second to be exact. T1 providers use special optic fibers or copper wire to connect all 24 channels so that voice calls and data transfers are possible. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is the bigger umbrella and T1 phones are under it. In simpler terms, this technology allows you to simultaneously make calls and send out emails without the risk of traffic or slow speed rates.

WHAT CAN I DO WITH IT?

In terms of communication, basically anything you want to. Make voice calls, conduct conference calls, send out large files over the Internet, PC to PC calls, PC to mobile phone calls, Caller ID…the works! Again, the key is a T1 line's ability to convert analog data to digital (and back to analog for calls) at great speeds.

WHY GET IT?

The number one reason for getting a T1 phone line is its cost effectiveness when used over large networks. Cheap T1 lines aren't really cheap but if you do the math, you save a lot more money in the long run plus, you get all the benefits of having 24 channels to use as you please. Furthermore, the coverage area of this technology is far bigger than regular lines; usually anywhere over 40 miles of an AT&T station.

With the rising number of T1 providers, price for this service is bound to drop. Even with the launch of T2 and T3 phones (usually for large scale needs), costs of these communication means will continue to become affordable, especially for small enterprises.

IS THERE A DOWNSIDE?

With hardware and programs being perfected as we speak, downsides are at a minimum. What consumers should pay attention to, however, is the compatibility of their T1 phone lines to that of the other users. Metaphorically, you can't leave a message to a phone with a non-existent machine. Upgrading does not always mean things will run smoothly. The receiver should also have the same upgrades in order to effectively transfer the same type pf data. Otherwise, a breakdown is absolute.

WHICH T1 PROVIDERS TO CHOOSE?

The basic requirement for a service provider of cheap T1 phone service and internet access is its being fully licensed from the national level to the state and local levels. It should comply with all legal requirements.