3-minute read time 

Summary 

• A county correctional facility in the Southeastern United States wanted to upgrade from an outdated analog surveillance system to a modern IP-based solution without the high costs, complexity, or disruption of a major network overhaul. 

• The reseller partner, Advent Electric, recommended the NVT Phybridge CLEER family of Ethernet over Coax innovations to enable a seamless migration to IP using the existing coax-based network infrastructure. 

• The customer reduced its network readiness costs by 60%, allocating the savings towards IP devices and applications to improve the project’s return on investment. 

• Reusing the existing coax-based infrastructure minimized electronic waste and environmental impact, aligned with the customer’s sustainability goals. 

Challenge 

A 12-building correctional complex relied on approximately 200 analog cameras across its campus. The organization sought to modernize its aging surveillance system with an IP-based solution to improve security, visibility, and operational efficiency. 

However, the estimated cost, complexity, and disruption associated with ripping and replacing the existing coax-based network infrastructure created significant barriers. This approach would have expanded the project’s scope, risk, and budget, introducing unacceptable disruption to secure facilities operating 24/7. 

Solution 

The reseller partner, Advent Electric, recommended the NVT Phybridge CLEER24-10G switch innovation to overcome the customer’s digital transformation barriers. In three simple setup steps, the CLEER24-10G switch transformed the facility’s existing coax-based infrastructure into a robust and secure PoE backbone for the new Vicon IP cameras. This eliminated the need for a costly, complex, and disruptive network rip-and-replace. 

The CLEER24-10G switch delivers up to 50 watts of power (PoE++) and 10/100 Mbps symmetrical, full-duplex connectivity over coax cabling, supporting distances of up to 6,000 ft (1,830 m); up to 18 times the reach of standard switches. 

Each Vicon IP camera operates with its own native IP address, removing the need for encoders and significantly simplifying system design, deployment, and ongoing management. “This just made it so much easier,” said Brian White of Advent Electric. “The solution met all the customer’s requirements while providing superior performance over long distances. There were no issues during implementation.” 

NVT Phybridge managed switches feature PowerWise® technology, enabling intelligent power sharing across interconnected switches to ensure continuous uptime. Combined with long-reach capabilities and robust PoE performance, these switches enhance system reliability, strengthen security, and reduce operational complexity. The NVT Phybridge CCMT configuration and management tool simplifies switch configuration, enabling bulk actions and automatic, easy firmware upgrades. These capabilities minimize downtime, streamline operations, and reduce ongoing switch management costs by up to 80%, helping organizations maintain a more resilient, efficient network environment. 

Results 

By leveraging NVT Phybridge network innovations, the county eliminated key digital transformation obstacles while significantly improving project ROI. Reusing the existing coax infrastructure reduced network readiness costs by an estimated 60% compared to the rip-and-replace method. The implementation was completed efficiently, without compromising safety or disrupting the facility’s continuous operations. 

Reflecting on the project’s success, Brian White added, “NVT Phybridge solutions have been pretty much seamless. They reduce complexity, save time, and deliver exactly what we need.” 

Sustainability 

The decision to repurpose existing network infrastructure aligns with the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability. By avoiding the production and disposal associated with new network infrastructure, the project minimized resource consumption and environmental impact. The project’s success demonstrates how innovative technology can address financial, operational, and environmental challenges while delivering exceptional results. 

About Advent Electric 

Advent Electric is a trusted electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial projects, offering services ranging from new wiring installations to troubleshooting and maintenance. Fully licensed across Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana, the company ensures all work conforms to strict industry standards. With a team of extensively trained and experienced professionals, Advent Electric delivers high-quality workmanship on every project. Committed to safety and regulatory compliance, the company prides itself on completing projects efficiently without compromising quality. 

About NVT Phybridge 

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns. 

 

Department of Health Deploys Mitel IP Phone System Without High Costs, Complexity, or Disruption 

3-minute read time 

Summary 

• A government health department needed to replace its aging Avaya PBX phone system but felt trapped with high infrastructure costs and operational disruption risks. 

• Chesapeake Telephone Systems (CTS) leveraged NVT Phybridge network innovations to help the department modernize its communications while avoiding the costly and disruptive “rip-and-replace” of its existing, proven network infrastructure. 

• CTS deployed a new on-premises Mitel IP communications system with 285 IP phones in under a week, delivering rapid implementation with minimal downtime, cost, and operational disruption. 

• By reusing the existing network infrastructure, the department significantly reduced electronic waste and minimized the project’s environmental impact — achieving both technological and sustainability goals. 

Problem 

A government health department in the Northeastern United States was operating an aging Avaya PBX phone system that no longer met its communication needs. Recurring charges for outdated Verizon ISDN circuits added to the inefficiencies, with some services no longer in use. While the department was ready to modernize to a Mitel IP voice solution, they also felt trapped, thinking they had to rip and replace existing infrastructure. Running new network cabling throughout the main building and addressing additional IDF closet requirements would have been time-consuming, costly, and highly disruptive to daily operations. 

Solution 

Chesapeake Telephone Systems (CTS) recommended the NVT Phybridge PoLRE long-reach PoE switch innovation to overcome these challenges. With years of experience using NVT Phybridge technology, CTS bypassed the need for a pilot by leveraging past successful deployments. The 48-port PoLRE managed switches enabled the deployment of 285 Mitel IP phones across the main and annex buildings using the existing CAT3-based infrastructure in the main building. NVT Phybridge PoLRE switches provide robust power and data over any new or existing single-pair UTP infrastructure with up to four times the reach of standard switches. This strategy helped the health department avoid the costly, disruptive trap of a network rip-and-replace.

CTS completed the hardware installation and configuration within four days, following weeks of strategic planning and system programming. Thanks to the simplified solution, the team maintained a clean, efficient deployment, keeping staff at their workstations and minimizing operational disruptions.

Result 

The PoLRE switch innovation enabled a swift and seamless transition to IP voice communications without the high cost, complexity, and disruption associated with a rip-and-replace approach. The health department avoided the complex and invasive process of addressing new IDF closet requirements and pulling new cables, which would have disrupted workspaces, ceilings, and possibly floor plates. 

The CTS team estimates that NVT Phybridge network innovations saved more than a week of deployment time, over 80 hours of labor, and significant financial savings. “The NVT Phybridge solution allowed us to deliver an efficient and cost-effective IP phone deployment for the government health department, exceeding their expectations while avoiding the high costs and disruption of a network overhaul,” said Barry Brill of CTS. 

Sustainability 

NVT Phybridge network innovations helped the government health department reduce the environmental footprint of its digital transformation project by extending the life of existing infrastructure assets and avoiding the waste associated with ripping and replacing network infrastructure. This approach not only supported the department’s operational goals but also aligned with broader sustainability practices that focus on minimizing electronic waste and improving environmental health for residents. 

About Chesapeake Telephone Systems (CTS) 

Simple, Secure, AI-Ready Communications. For more than 40 years, CTS has been a trusted, family-operated partner delivering award-winning business communications across the Mid-Atlantic. With over 5,000 customers, we help organizations connect, communicate, and compete with confidence.  

As a local, single-source provider, CTS designs and supports innovative voice and IT solutions that simplify technology management. Combining deep regional roots with enterprise-class expertise, we provide the simple, secure, AI-ready communications businesses need to thrive in today’s fast-moving world. CTS brings global-leading technology together with unmatched local service.  

About NVT Phybridge 

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns. 

 

Historic Church Leverages Its Existing Infrastructure to Achieve a Quick, Smooth, and Cost-Effective IP Phone Deployment

3-minute read time 

Summary 

• A historic church built in 1893 needed to upgrade 35 phones to IP. 

• The church wanted to avoid the trap of the traditional rip and replace approach to reduce costs while adhering to historic building preservation requirements. 

• Nuance Inc. used NVT Phybridge PoE innovations to deploy the new IP phones using the existing and proven voice infrastructure, avoiding unnecessary costs, complexity, and disruption. 

• The new IP phone system was deployed in just a day and a half, achieving a sustainable digital transformation by reusing existing infrastructure and protecting the historic site. 

Challenge 

A historic church in Indiana, established in 1893, faced a critical need to upgrade its communication system, as it relied on an aging Nortel phone system spanning multiple buildings, including the church office, school, and community building. This system relied on outdated onboard clocks and batteries that, once depleted, wiped all memory during power outages. As a historically preserved site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, any construction work, such as trenching through limestone for new cables, was not an option. The challenge was to find a cost-effective, non-disruptive method to deploy the new IP phone system without altering the building. 

Solution 

Nuance Inc., the reseller partner, recommended NVT Phybridge Power over Ethernet (PoE) network innovations. Having leveraged NVT Phybridge network innovations in past IP deployments with great success, Nuance Inc. was confident in the solution’s performance, capabilities, and ability to create better project outcomes for the church. NVT Phybridge PoLRE switches transformed the church’s existing CAT3-based network into a robust, secure backbone for the new IP phones. This approach allowed the church to deploy IP phones without invasive construction that could jeopardize the building’s historic status. The installation process was non-invasive, leveraging the existing 66 blocks and copper wiring to connect the new IP phones efficiently. 

The PoLRE switch innovation delivers Ethernet and PoE over Single-Pair UTP cabling with up to 1,200ft (365m) reach – four times the reach of standard Ethernet switches. Nuance Inc. used the NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch innovation to help the church avoid costly network infrastructure updates and reduce project risk, complexity, and disruption – creating better digital transformation outcomes for all stakeholders. 

Result 

The deployment was completed in just a day and a half, significantly faster than the original estimate, which could have taken months due to permit processes and extensive contractor coordination. By avoiding the need to trench through parking lots or bore new conduits, the project preserved the church’s historical integrity, minimized disruption to daily operations, and improved the project’s ROI. Financially, the church significantly reduced network readiness costs, while the quick turnaround ensured minimal disruption. The new IP phone system prevents issues related to power outages or memory loss, problems that had plagued the outdated Nortel system. This was particularly important given the technical constraints of the previous setup, which severely limited the church’s communication capabilities. The NVT Phybridge PoLRE network innovation fully addressed the customer’s concerns, providing the church with a modern, scalable, and sustainable communication network that can support its changing needs well into the future. 

Sustainability 

By reusing the existing CAT3-based infrastructure, the church protected its historical heritage and avoided the environmental impact and costs of new construction. The result was a modern, reliable communication system that serves the church’s current and future needs while preserving its historic character. This case exemplifies how NVT Phybridge technology can deliver innovative solutions that respect and protect landmark sites while enabling them to benefit from the latest IP capabilities. 

About NVT Phybridge 

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns.  

School District Deploys Mitel IP Phones Across 10 Buildings Without High Costs, Complexity, or Disruption 

3-minute read time

Summary 

• A U.S. school district in the northeast needed to transition from its end-of-life Nortel system to a new Mitel IP telephony solution across 10 buildings. 

• The district aimed to maintain voice/data separation, reusing existing infrastructure to minimize cost and complexity while creating secure and robust network pathways. 

• Back in 2011, the district had successfully used the NVT Phybridge UniPhyer to deploy its original Nortel system. Impressed by its reliability and performance, they chose to continue using NVT Phybridge PoE innovations to support the new IP telephony solution. 

• With support from Rel Comm Voice and Data Communications, the district used the PoLRE switch innovation (the next generation of the UniPhyer switch) to achieve a simple, secure, and cost-effective deployment. 

• Rel Comm used PoLRE switch innovations to help the district save over $100,000, avoid months of disruption, and ensure a robust network for the new IP telephony solution. 

Problem 

A U.S. school district in the northeast faced a critical challenge as its Nortel phone system reached end-of-life. With the manufacturer no longer in business, the district needed to upgrade its communications system across 10 buildings to maintain operational efficiency and ensure emergency readiness. School officials prioritized maintaining a separate voice network to ensure phone lines would remain operational even if the data network failed, which is critical for enabling reliable 911 access in classrooms. 

Previously, the school district had implemented the NVT Phybridge UniPhyer solution, which had reliably supported their telephony needs for years. Due to their great experience with the UniPhyer, the school district preferred to adopt the same strategy of leveraging the existing and proven voice infrastructure to support IP. 

Solution 

The integrator partner, Rel Comm Voice and Data Communications, recommended the NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch innovation (the next generation of the UniPhyer switch) to help the district deploy IP telephony using its existing CAT3 infrastructure. For the second time, NVT Phybridge PoE innovations helped the district avoid the trap of ripping and replacing its existing network infrastructure, significantly improving the project’s return on investment. 

The PoLRE switch provided the extended reach and power capabilities needed to support over 250 new Mitel IP phones across the 10 locations. To ensure a smooth transition, the installation was strategically scheduled during the summer break to avoid disruption. Two central technicians handled the head-end upgrade, while teams were deployed across campuses to replace endpoint adapters. This careful planning and execution enabled a quick and seamless deployment. The PoLRE switch innovation enabled the reuse of existing voice infrastructure, preserving voice/data separation. It also helped to maintain centralized power via an existing UPS system, resulting in significant cost and energy savings. 

Results 

The NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch helped the school district avoid the trap of a complete network overhaul, saving over $100,000 in infrastructure and labor costs. Operational reliability was enhanced with uninterrupted voice communications even during potential data network issues. The centralized UPS system reduced backup power requirements at each site, further decreasing complexity and operational costs. 

Sustainability 

NVT Phybridge network innovations not only delivered immediate financial and operational benefits but also aligned with the school district’s sustainability goals. By reusing existing CAT3 cabling, rack space, and cooling systems, the project avoided electronic waste and minimized the environmental impact. The continued use of a centralized UPS system contributed to energy efficiency across the district’s infrastructure. This initiative highlights how responsible technology decisions can support both operational excellence and environmental stewardship. 

About Rel Comm 

Rel Comm, Inc. is a leading provider of business communication solutions, specializing in cloud-based phone systems, VoIP services, and unified communications. With decades of experience, Rel Comm helps organizations modernize their communication infrastructure with scalable and cost-effective technologies. The company is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and tailored solutions that support long-term success. Rel Comm serves a wide range of industries with a strong focus on reliability, simplicity, and support. 

About NVT Phybridge 

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns. 

 

Public School District Deploys Over 20,000 Mitel IP Phones Across 200 Sites Without High Costs, Complexity, or Disruption 

3-minute read time 

Summary 

• One of the largest US public school districts needed to modernize its outdated analog phone systems but faced significant budget and infrastructure challenges. 

• The school district was not willing to rip and replace existing and proven voice infrastructure due to traditional switch reach and cable type limitations. 

• The reseller partner, C1, recommended the NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch innovation to enable over 20,000 new Mitel IP phones in more than 200 buildings using existing voice infrastructure.

• The district achieved over $10 million in savings, minimized deployment complexity, and completed the project faster than initially expected. 

• By leveraging existing infrastructure, the district reduced waste and aligned the project with its environmental goals. 

Problem 

One of the largest US public school districts, operating over 300 schools and serving over 190,000 students, wanted to modernize its aging telephony systems with a new Mitel IP solution across all locations. The goal was to provide better connectivity and more reliable communications for administrative offices and classrooms. However, most of the school buildings were several decades old, which meant construction and building modifications were expensive and complex. 

The school district felt trapped, thinking they needed to accept the high costs, complexity, and disruption of a network overhaul due to the reach and cable type limitations of traditional switches. This would have also significantly increased the planning and deployment timelines, likely making the project unfeasible. Additionally, the older facilities posed additional risks, such as potential asbestos exposure during construction. 

Solution 

The school district was unwilling to accept traditional rip-and-replace network requirements and did not want to compromise the upgrade by accepting a non-IP technology. The district looked for an innovative solution to overcome its challenges and achieve its goal of a complete IP-based solution. 

The reseller partner, C1, recommended NVT Phybridge PoLRE network innovations to overcome these challenges. The PoLRE Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch innovation eliminates the cable type and distance limitations of traditional PoE switches, delivering power and data over a single pair of wire with over 1,200ft (365m) reach. Thanks to C1’s recommendation, the school district adopted network innovations to achieve incredible results: 

• Transformed the existing CAT3 infrastructure into a robust PoE backbone for the new IP devices. 

• Avoided the need for expensive and disruptive rip-and-replace requirements due to traditional PoE switch reach and cable type limitations. 

• Deployed over 20,000 Mitel IP endpoints seamlessly across all schools while maintaining a reliable and secure network infrastructure. 

• Leveraged a cost-effective, scalable solution that simplified installation and minimized risk. 

• The PoLRE’s managed switch capabilities allow the customer to remotely manage their new IP solution, improving security, response time, and reliability while reducing network complexity and day two management costs. 

The deployment process was fast and straightforward. The existing voice infrastructure had a standard point-to-point topology across all locations, allowing for a repeatable, predictable, and scalable implementation process. The ability to reuse existing voice infrastructure reduced costs, complexity, and disruption while accelerating the upgrade from the aging and less reliable phone system to a robust IP solution. 

Results 

NVT Phybridge networking innovations eliminated the need for costly rip and replace of existing infrastructure, mitigating construction-related risks, such as asbestos exposure. The district successfully migrated to IP telephony, saving over $10 million in network readiness costs while deploying over 20,000 new Mitel IP phones in record time. 

These savings allowed the school district to invest in ROI-driving technologies without exceeding its budget. Deployment was completed much faster than anticipated, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations. “The network innovation eliminated all of the district’s concerns and allowed us to accelerate the adoption of new IP capabilities to improve operations and create safer environments.” – Lisa Morrison, C1 

Sustainability 

The team at the school district demonstrated commitment to their environmentally sustainable practices by adopting innovative network thinking and modern PoE innovations. The district prevented over 66 tons of electronic waste, creating greener schools while maintaining healthy and welcoming learning environments for all students and staff. 

About C1 

C1, the global technology solution provider elevating connected human experiences, is transforming the industry by creating connected experiences that make a lasting impact on customers, our teams, and our communities. More than 6,000 customers use C1 every day to help them build meaningful connections through innovative and secure experiences. 

About NVT Phybridge 

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns.