What is PRI Telecom? 

There are several various standardized telecommunications services available to assist businesses with communication that reaches all across the globe. When it comes to standardized services, people often ask, what is PRI? PRI telecom is a service capable of providing extensive levels of data transmission for large enterprises or businesses. A PRI telecom line is a physical piece of equipment. So, let’s learn more about its advantages and just how it works. 

What does PRI stand for? 

PRI stands for Primary Rate Interface which is a standard that lies within the Integrated Services Digital Network framework or ISDN. PRI is a specification that is meant to carry both data and voice transmissions. BRI, which stands for Basic Rate Interface, is also a standard within the ISDN but differs in that it is made for home and enterprise use. 

Features of a PRI telecom line 

PRI telecom has been around for decades and is one of the most widely used technologies used for business communications. Let’s look at some of the features and characteristics of a PRI line. 

• Each channel of a PRI has a 64 kbps capacity for data transmissions. 
• A PRI line is made of 2 pairs of copper wires which connect the network to the customer. 
• Even though a PRI is only one line, it can simultaneously transmit 23 superate communications including voice, data, and video. This makes it possible for 23 people at your business to be on video chat, instant messaging, or talking on the phone, all at the same time. 
• PRI lines can work with a mixed EPABX setup, analog, or an IP PBX system. 

How PRI Works 

Most often every employee in a company has their own direct phone number. So if you want to get a hold of that specific person you can dial their number and speak to them directly. But, each of these employees’ phone numbers doesn’t actually have their own phone line. This is where the Primary Rate Interface (PRI) comes in.

Since PRI telecom can handle up to 23 conversations at the same time, only one PRI line is needed for up to 23 users in a company. Smaller businesses understand and bank on the fact that very rarely will all 23 individuals be using all 23 lines simultaneously. Because of this, it is common to see up to 50 users assigned to one PRI. This means that 50 users will all be running through the same circuit, with the capability of 23 voice, data, or video communications happening all at once. 

When your business is starting to grow and you need to expand, you will now most likely have more than 23 communications happening at the same time. At this point, you can purchase an additional PRI circuit. When added to the previous line, this opens up the ability for another 23 channels. 

PRI Telecom Advantages 

Here are a few of the many advantages offered by a PRI line.

1. Faster connections 
2. An excellent fit for industrial use and large organizations while the BRI is geared for smaller businesses or home capabilities 3. Higher security 
3. Offers such features as direct inward dialing and caller ID 5. Is very cost-effective because only 1 PRI line can support 23 separate lines 

PRI Telecom Costs 

Any phone system installed for your business is going to come with a cost. There will be an initial investment plus an ongoing cost in the form of maintenance fees, monthly, or service fees. 

PRI circuits need onsite installations for every physical connection you require. If your business requires multiple channels, be prepared to end up paying quite a lot in installation costs. Your upfront costs may be increased significantly if your PRI phone system will be used with an IP PBX as this will require a primary rate interface card. 

Overall, both the upfront and ongoing costs for PRI circuits can be considered in the medium to high range.

You can see more price comparisons here.

Drawbacks of PRI 

• A PRI telecom system lacks some elements of flexibility. The physical installation required can be costly and scaling up can be frustrating. You may only need a handful of additional users but an entire circuit of 23 channels is required for the upgrade. 
• Any service that involves physical components can cause severe issues if a problem occurs on-site. This can be a possibility with PRI circuits. 
• As mentioned earlier, the installation and monthly fees can be costly and will fall to you as a business owner. Long-distance, as well as international calling, is also fairly expensive with a PRI system. Depending on the needs of your business organization, this could end up being a large expense. 

Analog POTS lines 

Think you have an idea what a POTS line is? The acronym stands for plain old telephone service. That’s right. POTS refers to the landlines that today are becoming close to extinction. If you had one of these growing up, you may remember waiting for your turn to use the phone because only one communication could be used at a time. 

POTS provides service through a single analog circuit connecting the user to the provider. Back in the day, POTS lines were the only way to communicate by phone. They are still extremely reliable, and can still work today for small businesses that don’t have much phone traffic.

PRI Telecom Conclusion 

If you are interested in learning more about PRI telecom or the other telecom services available for your business, OneStop Communications can answer all your questions. We’re your all-in-one source for business telecom services. Our telecommunications consulting experts work hard to find you the best local integrated telecom service solutions for your business needs. We work with T1 internet providers, cellular carriers, and other companies to develop a strategy that’s unique to your business. Contact us today for your free quote.

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