Replace Batteries in Panasonic DBS Telephone Systems Prior to September Power Outage

TO: ETS Staff
FR: Andrew Morgan, Service Delivery Manager/Campus Cellular Infrastructure Manager
Enterprise Technology Services - Network & Communication Services
RE: Replace Batteries in Panasonic DBS Telephone Systems Prior to September Power Outage

UCSB is scheduled for a power outage starting September 14 at 10 p.m., with full-service restoration expected by the afternoon of September 15.

Many campus departments have Panasonic DBS telephones that are powered by one or more cabinets near the department offices, which contain batteries to help maintain service during a power outage. However, no departments have requested battery replacement in the past two years. A typical battery replacement life is three to four years, so it is likely many of these DBS telephones will fail quickly, or immediately, upon loss of campus power.

This power outage and the recent earthquakes remind us that preparation makes a difference during all events, large and small. Network & Communications Services (NOC) can replace your DBS batteries on a time-and-materials basis, which typically costs $200-300 for the average DBS system. Large systems may cost up to $600.

To request a replacement, please open a service request by visiting i thelp.ucsb.edu and go to "Messaging, Collaboration, and Communications Services," then, "Telephones and Cable TV," then, "Purchase Equipment." In the description, please include a telephone number on the system for which you want replacement batteries.

Check to see if you're not certain whether your department is on a Panasonic DBS at the CommServ Digital Instruments page for examples of typical DBS-based telephones.