What is PBX?

Have you begun to research the best kind of phone system for your business? If you have, then the word PBX has definitely crossed your path. As with most technical tools, strange words or acronyms are a given. Don’t let it scare you away. Should a PBX system be right for your business, you’ll be glad you didn’t.

A modern PBX, or Private Branch Exchange, replaces archaic switchboards and allow business to save money and take advantage of key features that improve efficiency. You may have also seen PBX referred to as PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) or EPABX (Electronic Private Automatic Branch Exchange).

A PBX system basically creates the ability for many telephone lines (extensions) to connect to public lines via a smaller subset of lines. These are called trunk lines. Think of it like a tree trunk with many branches representing extensions for phone, fax or modem.

PBX is not to be confused with a key system where you must select a line for an outgoing call. Instead you dial a single digit escape code, probably “9” to connect to an available outgoing line. You’ve probably run into this if you’ve ever worked in an office or even a retail environment. With the growing number of PBX options, these products are becoming increasingly popular for both residential and commercial purposes.

Modern PBX systems include a tremendous number of features including call forwarding, conference calling and call transfer. You can also complement your PBX system with an Access Control System to control the entrances to your place of business. This will ensure that your employees are held accountable for who comes and goes, allowing you to focus on managing growth and success.

A comprehensive PBX Access Control System consists of a Door Phone or Door Phone Keypad, a PABX Exchange with Auto Attendant feature and an electric strike lock. Depending on your specific needs, an Intercom to Phone Adaptor can also be incorporated. The entire package can allow you to control access into your business directly from any extension. And, if you opt for the Door Phone Keypad, employees can each be assigned a code for access at the front door.

For more on PBX and the great tools, like Access Control, stay tuned.