Prison Call Technology: Telephony, VoIP & Engine Number Systems
- prisonengine
- Oct 14
- 5 min read

In recent years, prison call technology has seen some important improvements that help inmates stay in touch with their families and friends. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of engine number systems, which allow prisoners to make calls more easily and affordably. Traditionally, prison calls were costly, often putting a strain on both the prisoners and their loved ones. However, with advancements in technology, particularly through VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and engine number systems, communication between prisoners and the outside world has become more affordable, secure, and reliable. In this article, we will explore how these technologies are changing the way inmates communicate, making calls cheaper and more efficient for everyone involved.
The cost of making phone calls from prison has long been a point of frustration for inmates and their families. Traditional prison phone systems often come with high fees, making it difficult for families to stay connected. However, the introduction of modern technologies, such as VoIP and engine number systems, is starting to change this. These technologies provide a more cost-effective way for prisoners to make calls, which not only helps families save money but also ensures that inmates can maintain strong relationships with their loved ones, a vital part of their rehabilitation. Let's take a closer look at how prison call technology works and how it's benefiting both prisoners and their families.
The Problem with Traditional Prison Phone Systems
For many years, prison phone systems have been outdated and expensive. Inmates typically had to rely on landline phones that were subject to high per-minute charges. These high costs made it difficult for prisoners to maintain regular contact with family members and friends, many of whom were already facing financial difficulties. In addition, the systems were often unreliable, with poor call quality, dropped connections, and limited access to phone time.
These challenges created significant emotional and social barriers for inmates. The inability to stay connected with family members or legal advisors could lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and anxiety. It also made it harder for inmates to successfully reintegrate into society after serving their sentences, as maintaining family connections is a key factor in successful rehabilitation.
The Rise of VoIP in Prison Communication
One of the key innovations that has helped solve some of these issues is the introduction of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology. VoIP allows phone calls to be made over the internet rather than through traditional phone lines. This system drastically reduces the cost of making calls because it eliminates the need for expensive landline infrastructure. VoIP technology has become a game-changer in the prison system, offering a more affordable way for inmates to stay in touch with their loved ones.
VoIP-based prison call systems work by converting the inmate’s voice into digital data, which is then transmitted over the internet to the recipient’s phone. This reduces the need for long-distance charges and helps cut down the costs associated with traditional prison phone services. With VoIP, inmates can make more frequent calls without worrying about the high costs that used to limit their ability to connect with others. This not only benefits the inmates but also offers a more affordable way for families to communicate with their incarcerated loved ones.
Engine Number Systems: A New Way to Make Calls
Another important innovation in prison communication is the engine number system. This system assigns a unique number to each inmate, which they can use to make calls. The engine number acts like an identification code that is linked to the inmate’s account. When an inmate wants to place a call, they simply dial their engine number, and the system processes the call securely and efficiently.
The engine number system offers several benefits. First, it streamlines the calling process. Inmates no longer have to go through complicated procedures to request a phone call. Instead, they can quickly place a call using their engine number, which is a more straightforward and reliable way to connect with others.
Second, the engine number system enhances security. Calls are automatically logged and monitored, ensuring that only authorised individuals can place calls. This helps prevent unauthorised communication or illegal activity. While maintaining security, the system also makes it easier for inmates to stay in touch with their families or legal teams, which is crucial for maintaining their mental and emotional well-being.
How Engine Numbers Help Make Calls Cheaper
One of the key advantages of the engine number system is its ability to make calls more affordable for both inmates and their families. In the past, traditional prison phone systems charged high fees for each call, which made it difficult for families to stay in touch with their loved ones. However, with the engine number system, calls are made through a more efficient and affordable platform, often using VoIP technology. As a result, the cost of calls is significantly reduced.
For Australian families, this cost reduction can make a big difference. Many people face financial challenges, and the high cost of staying in touch with an incarcerated loved one can be overwhelming. By providing a more affordable way to make calls, the engine number system ensures that families are not burdened with expensive phone bills. In turn, this makes it easier for families to maintain regular communication with inmates, which is essential for keeping relationships strong and supportive.
The Importance of Cheap Inmate Calls for Australian Families
In Australia, the rising costs of prison phone calls have been a source of concern for many families. High fees often limit how often they can speak with their loved ones, leading to feelings of distance and isolation. By using VoIP and engine number systems, families can now enjoy cheaper calls, allowing them to stay in touch more regularly.
For inmates, the ability to communicate more easily with family and friends is an important part of their rehabilitation. Studies have shown that strong family support networks are one of the most important factors in reducing the likelihood of reoffending. By making it easier and cheaper to stay connected, VoIP and engine number systems play a crucial role in supporting inmates' reintegration into society after their release.
Additionally, the reduced cost of calls allows inmates to speak with their legal representatives more frequently, which can be important for those involved in ongoing legal cases or appeals. By lowering the barriers to communication, these technologies provide inmates with a more balanced and fair system, allowing them to maintain contact with the outside world without facing financial hardship.
Enhanced Security and Monitoring with Engine Numbers
Security is always a top priority in correctional facilities, and engine number systems are designed with this in mind. Each call made through the engine number system is carefully monitored and logged, which helps ensure that all communication is secure and authorised. The system can track which inmates are making calls, who they are calling, and when the calls are taking place. This added layer of monitoring helps prevent illegal activities and ensures that only those with permission can make phone calls.
Moreover, the engine number system allows authorities to restrict or block certain phone numbers if needed. If an inmate is attempting to contact someone they shouldn’t be, such as an accomplice or a witness, the system can easily prevent that call from going through. This ability to monitor and control calls ensures that security remains intact while still allowing inmates to stay connected to their families and legal teams.
Conclusion
In conclusion, prison call technology has made great strides in recent years, particularly with the advent of VoIP and engine number systems. These technologies have helped reduce the high costs of prison calls, making it easier for inmates and their families to stay connected. By using a combination of secure and affordable systems, Australian families can maintain strong relationships with incarcerated loved ones without facing financial strain.
If you're looking for an affordable and reliable way to make calls from jail or stay in touch with someone in prison, Prison Engine offers a solution. Their platform focuses on providing cheap inmate calls while ensuring security and ease of use. To learn more about how you can stay connected with your loved one, visit Prison Engine.




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