What should be checked first if there is no dial-tone voltage at the telephone outlet?

The most logical first step when there is no dial-tone voltage at the telephone outlet is to check for voltage at the embedded multimedia terminal adapter (EMTA). This device plays a critical role in providing voice services in many modern telecommunications setups, especially in VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) environments. If the EMTA is not functioning properly or lacks power, it can directly affect the availability of dial-tone voltage at the telephone outlet.

By confirming the voltage at the EMTA, you determine whether there is an issue with the power supply or the device itself, which helps narrow down the cause of the no dial-tone condition. If voltage is present, it suggests that the issue may lie further down the line, such as with the customer's equipment or the wiring to the individual devices.

Inspecting the customer premises equipment for damage would typically be a subsequent step after confirming that the EMTA is functioning properly. Similarly, checking the network interface device connection and examining the telephone for malfunctions would follow once you've established that the voltage at the EMTA is as it should be. Each of these steps builds upon the initial findings, but starting with the EMTA is fundamental to troubleshooting the lack of dial-tone efficiently.