AC Phone Jack System?

Question

Have you had any experience with this system before? I see RCA sells them, as well as some other brands which I've never seen before. I'm wondering if the product works consistently and reliably, or if it is better to just wire more outlets throughout the house.

Any details would be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

I used to have one when I was a kid - more of an intercom system rather than a real phone. I am guessing they have gotten a LOT better since then (about 15 years). However the biggest catch is the phases. If your house's wiring is divided into seperate phases, then the phones will not work across the phase. For example - if your handset is in one phase, and the AC-Phone Jack converter is in another phase, then there is no physical connection between the two and therefore will not work. But unless you know exactly how your house is wired, the only way to figure this out is to actually hook it up and see if it works.

As a rule though, AC wiring is of a lot lower grade copper and meant to withstand higher voltage etc and isn't the most ideal wire for telecommunication - you will find that you hear buzzes and blips everytime the fridge kicks on or the microwave or iron box or washer/dryer or Air Conditioner

So ... if you are looking for a temporary phone jack (something to use for a couple months or years) this might be a decent idea. If you own your house and plan to own it forever, you should invest in phone jacks whenever you are financially comfortable.