It is important to us that your safety is guarded in the event of a power outage. The BiG GiG Fiber Network residential internet service requires an ONT that uses electrical power. If the ONT loses electrical power, as in the case of a power outage, telephone service will be inoperable.
Whidbey Telecom has for purchase an external Battery Backup UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), which will allow you to continue to use your home telephone service during a power outage. Without a battery backup or alternate backup source such as a generator, you will not be able to make any telephone calls, including emergency calls to 911. The only way to maintain the ability to use your telephone service is by using some form of backup power. If you are concerned about being able to contact 911 emergency services during a power outage, a Battery Backup UPS is the best solution for you.
The Battery Backup UPS provided by Whidbey Telecom has the following specifications as recommended by the FCC. You may purchase your own battery backup system but it must meet or exceed the specifications below. For more complete information about FCC requirements regarding battery backups, please reference the FCC website here.
| INPUT | |
|---|---|
| Voltage Range | 100 Vac-240 Vac |
| Frequency Range | 50/60 Hz |
| Input Power Cord | NEMA 5-15 / 3-Prong Power Cord |
| Input Ground Reference | Earth Grounded |
| OUTPUT ON AC | |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 12 Vdc (Nominal) |
| Continuous Power Capacity | 3A (36 WATT) |
| OUTPUT ON BATTERY | |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 12 Vdc (Nominal) |
| Continuous Power Capacity | 3A (36 WATT) |
| BATTERY | |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion Battery Pack |
| Design Life | 10-15 years |
| Battery Capacity | 14.8V / 5200mAh |
| Typical Recharge Time | <12 hours |
| Replaceable Pack | Yes |
| SURGE PROTECTION | |
|---|---|
| Lightning/Surge Protection | Yes (IEC 61000- 4- 5 2005 Level D) |
Frequently Asked Questions
A Battery Backup UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a power source that provides power for your Whidbey Telecom voice service, including Emergency 911 dialing (depending upon your specific device) in the event of a power outage.
The BiG GiG Fiber Network residential internet service requires an ONT that uses electrical power. The Battery Backup UPS is installed in close proximity to the ONT. ONT installation locations vary depending on customer requirements and home layout. If the ONT loses electrical power, as in the case of a power outage, service will be inoperable. The Battery Backup UPS can power ONLY voice service for up to 8 hours or 24 hours, depending on the product installed. The Battery Backup UPS does not provide power to any services other than voice. Do not plug any additional devices into the Battery Backup UPS.
Depending on what Battery Backup UPS is purchased, the battery will last either 8 or 24 hours. The 8 or 24 hours is stand-by time, meaning if you make a phone call while the battery is in use, depending on the length of the call(s), age of the battery, number of power outages, and other factors, it might last less than 8 or 24 hours. During a power outage, if you have a Battery Backup UPS, it’s recommended that you limit phone use so the dial tone is available for emergencies.
A Battery Backup UPS purchased from Whidbey Telecom ranges between $140-$260 depending on the configuration and battery run time. This is a one-time fee, you are purchasing-to-own the equipment from us. There is no monthly lease or equipment fee. Installation of the Battery Backup UPS is no charge if installed during your initial service installation. Labor rates apply if installation of the Battery Backup UPS occurs outside of your service installation appointment.
You do not need to purchase the Battery Backup UPS from us, but it is highly recommended that you have a battery backup system. You may purchase your own but it must meet or exceed the above specifications. Whidbey Telecom personnel will not install a third-party battery.
For the full technical specifications for Whidbey Telecom’s Battery Backup UPS, view the User Manual here.
Yes, the cost for a replacement battery is $65.
It is important that you NOT remove the battery backup yourself or move it to a different location after installation. Please contact Tech Support first if you intend to move it, and follow the detailed steps in the UPS Removal and Replacement Guide.
Disclaimer: Whidbey Telecom will not support, nor be liable for, equipment/services not purchased from Whidbey Telecom. A battery backup purchased for your current residence may not work at a different location. Whidbey Telecom does not suggest nor endorse any battery backup products or companies. Specification requirements are provided as required by the FCC so you may further educate yourself on alternative backup options.
