AT&T will paying Apple a $325 subsidy on each new iPhone 3G sold in the US in addition to offering the electronics maker a hefty bounty for each subscriber addition it gains from sales of the handset at Apple retail stores.
Oppenheimer equity research analyst Yair Reiner told clients in a research report that the subsidy is more than 50 percent higher than most other smart phones, which are typically subsidized by about $200
AT&T (T) is paying a subsidy of $325 for the new Apple (AAPL) iPhone 3G, according to Oppenheimer analyst Yair Reiner. He notes that the typical smartphone gets a subsidy of about $200. The new phone will be sold at retail for $199 for 8 GB of memory, or $299 for 16 GB.
The higher subsidy rate for the iPhone, he says, “reflects AT&T’s faith in the iPhone’s ability to attract new subs and increase ARPU.” And he also says it has positive implications for Apple, since it effectively results in a playing field that is tilted in their favor. “Rivals must scramble to hit a lower, less profitable price point,” he writes.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
AT and T and Apple to Launch iPhone 3G in the US on July 11
AT&T and Apple® today announced that the innovative iPhone™ 3G will be available in the US on July 11. iPhone 3G combines all the revolutionary features of iPhone with 3G networking that is twice as fast* as the first generation iPhone, built-in GPS for expanded location based mobile services, and iPhone 2.0 software which includes support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync and runs the hundreds of third party applications already built with the recently released iPhone SDK.
“We’re offering the most advanced mobile device ever on the nation’s most advanced high speed network,” said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility. “We think iPhone 3G is an amazing mobile device and our customers are going to love using iPhone 3G to make calls, send emails and surf the web even faster.”
“We’re thrilled to continue working with the largest wireless carrier in the US to bring iPhone 3G to AT&T customers this July,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s COO. “iPhone 3G is a revolutionary product and we can’t wait for customers to get their hands on it.”
AT&T’s broad and powerful 3G mobile broadband network offers 3G mobile phones download speeds of up to 1.4 Mbps. AT&T’s 3G network is currently available in more than 275 leading US metropolitan areas and by year-end, the company plans to offer 3G service in nearly 350 metropolitan areas. AT&T has the best global coverage of any provider with roaming available in more than 200 countries, including more 3G roaming than any other carrier.
iPhone 3G will be available in the US on July 11 for a retail price of $199 for the 8GB model and $299 for the 16GB model in both Apple and AT&T’s retail stores and requires a new two year contract. AT&T will also sell iPhone 3G through its direct business sales teams.
Based on 3G and EDGE testing. Actual speeds vary by site conditions.
AT&T Inc. is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world’s most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation’s leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.
Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and has entered the mobile phone market with its revolutionary iPhone.
AT&T and Apple to Launch iPhone 3G in the US on July 11
Source: Apple.com
“We’re offering the most advanced mobile device ever on the nation’s most advanced high speed network,” said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility. “We think iPhone 3G is an amazing mobile device and our customers are going to love using iPhone 3G to make calls, send emails and surf the web even faster.”
“We’re thrilled to continue working with the largest wireless carrier in the US to bring iPhone 3G to AT&T customers this July,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s COO. “iPhone 3G is a revolutionary product and we can’t wait for customers to get their hands on it.”
AT&T’s broad and powerful 3G mobile broadband network offers 3G mobile phones download speeds of up to 1.4 Mbps. AT&T’s 3G network is currently available in more than 275 leading US metropolitan areas and by year-end, the company plans to offer 3G service in nearly 350 metropolitan areas. AT&T has the best global coverage of any provider with roaming available in more than 200 countries, including more 3G roaming than any other carrier.
iPhone 3G will be available in the US on July 11 for a retail price of $199 for the 8GB model and $299 for the 16GB model in both Apple and AT&T’s retail stores and requires a new two year contract. AT&T will also sell iPhone 3G through its direct business sales teams.
Based on 3G and EDGE testing. Actual speeds vary by site conditions.
AT&T Inc. is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world’s most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation’s leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.
Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and has entered the mobile phone market with its revolutionary iPhone.
AT&T and Apple to Launch iPhone 3G in the US on July 11
Source: Apple.com
Types of VoIP services in Australia
Types of VoIP services in Australia
Voice over IP in Australia most types of VoIP services available on the market.Great simple are the free VoIP services offered by companies such as MSN, Skype and others.Only you download and install a small application onto your PC you can to talk to other people who use the same application.
Another way to test the VoIP waters is to opt for a pay as you go service.Example, MyNetFone offers a plan with no monthly fee and untimed calls to anywhere in Australia for 12.5 cents per call. You can opt out of the plan at any time with no penalty. These plans don't have an inbound number so you will be able to make but not receive VoIP phone calls. For those who need an inbound number, there are a range of plans on offer. For example, Engin offers plans starting from AU$9.95 per month that include an inbound telephone number.
Benefits VoIP can offer are only limited by its application, in general terms these are:
Significant reduction in call costs
Exciting and practical advanced communication features
Reduced complexity, enhanced efficiency and unprecedented flexibility.
The constantly on the move but who don't want to carry a PC, there are also a number of USB stick phones on the market. These natty devices are about the same size as a USB storage device and have a plug in one end for a headset and microphone. When plugged into a spare port on any broadband VoIP connected PC, they become a VoIP telephone, allowing calls to be made and received. Because they don't require any software to be loaded onto the PC itself, they are perfect for using in Internet cafes or friends houses.
Most VoIP providers also offer a softphone option to allow calls to be made and received using a PC or Mac. These applications allow free calls between users on the same service and the same low-cost rates to other numbers.
Voice over IP in Australia most types of VoIP services available on the market.Great simple are the free VoIP services offered by companies such as MSN, Skype and others.Only you download and install a small application onto your PC you can to talk to other people who use the same application.
Another way to test the VoIP waters is to opt for a pay as you go service.Example, MyNetFone offers a plan with no monthly fee and untimed calls to anywhere in Australia for 12.5 cents per call. You can opt out of the plan at any time with no penalty. These plans don't have an inbound number so you will be able to make but not receive VoIP phone calls. For those who need an inbound number, there are a range of plans on offer. For example, Engin offers plans starting from AU$9.95 per month that include an inbound telephone number.
Benefits VoIP can offer are only limited by its application, in general terms these are:
Significant reduction in call costs
Exciting and practical advanced communication features
Reduced complexity, enhanced efficiency and unprecedented flexibility.
The constantly on the move but who don't want to carry a PC, there are also a number of USB stick phones on the market. These natty devices are about the same size as a USB storage device and have a plug in one end for a headset and microphone. When plugged into a spare port on any broadband VoIP connected PC, they become a VoIP telephone, allowing calls to be made and received. Because they don't require any software to be loaded onto the PC itself, they are perfect for using in Internet cafes or friends houses.
Most VoIP providers also offer a softphone option to allow calls to be made and received using a PC or Mac. These applications allow free calls between users on the same service and the same low-cost rates to other numbers.
Friday, June 20, 2008
US Robotics 9602 VOIP Phone
VOIP Phone the promotional material we received with this USB phone says its integrated HiFi Voice technology provides “life-like conversations.” Well listen, homeboys, don’t mean to bust your bubble, but we put that claim to the test—and it turns out a conversation is only as “life-like” as your conversational partner.
Yes, the Mini Phone was easy to install and set up. Yes, it worked seamlessly with Skype. But then the recipient of our test call—Donald Hutchinson of Sand Creek, Michigan—came on the line. Man! Talk about taking the express train to Dullsville.
It was like listening to paint dry. Thank goodness he finally petered out and hung up before we thought to stab ourselves in the eye just to feel something, anything.
Warranty: 90 Day US Robotics
Features:
Compatible with Skype – Makes Internet calling as simple and comfortable as standard telephone calling
HiFi Voice technology for exceptional call clarity
Integrated echo cancellation and noise reduction technology delivers life-like conversation quality
Full-duplex operation eliminates call clipping
Supports Windows 2000 & XP operating systems
Compatible with USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 ports
Yes, the Mini Phone was easy to install and set up. Yes, it worked seamlessly with Skype. But then the recipient of our test call—Donald Hutchinson of Sand Creek, Michigan—came on the line. Man! Talk about taking the express train to Dullsville.
It was like listening to paint dry. Thank goodness he finally petered out and hung up before we thought to stab ourselves in the eye just to feel something, anything.
Warranty: 90 Day US Robotics
Features:
Compatible with Skype – Makes Internet calling as simple and comfortable as standard telephone calling
HiFi Voice technology for exceptional call clarity
Integrated echo cancellation and noise reduction technology delivers life-like conversation quality
Full-duplex operation eliminates call clipping
Supports Windows 2000 & XP operating systems
Compatible with USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 ports
VOIP USA - First 10 Days Free VOIP Trial
VOIP - First 10 Days Free Trial
VOIP USA,What better way to test our service than to let us pay for it.
Voice over IP is no longer just for the largest firms. Improvements in the technology, and the way it is being used are helping the technology shake off the skeptics, and is drawing in customers in rapidly increasing numbers. According to Lindsey Schroth senior analyst at The Yankee Group, "Eventually, the entire infrastructure is going to IP, it's just a question of when".
Let VoiP Communications show you that the time is NOW. Sign up today. We will cover the cost of all your long-distance calls for the first ten days. If you aren't completely satisfied that the quality is perfect and the savings are real, we will help coordinate your switch to your previous carrier.
Source: http://www.voiptelecomusa.com/trial.asp
VOIP USA,What better way to test our service than to let us pay for it.
Voice over IP is no longer just for the largest firms. Improvements in the technology, and the way it is being used are helping the technology shake off the skeptics, and is drawing in customers in rapidly increasing numbers. According to Lindsey Schroth senior analyst at The Yankee Group, "Eventually, the entire infrastructure is going to IP, it's just a question of when".
Let VoiP Communications show you that the time is NOW. Sign up today. We will cover the cost of all your long-distance calls for the first ten days. If you aren't completely satisfied that the quality is perfect and the savings are real, we will help coordinate your switch to your previous carrier.
Source: http://www.voiptelecomusa.com/trial.asp
VoIP Provider - Easy Ways To Become One
The developments in the VoIP industry are taking place at regular intervals. And many small and medium businesses can now make the most of the emerging opportunities in this domain and become VoIP providers. As a matter of fact, it makes perfect business sense for them to add voice over IP to their assortment of services. They can deliver these services to their existing base of customers and gain in the process.
Special expertise or skill sets are not required to become a VoIP provider. The risks involved are also minimal. In addition, there are more than one way to deal with the competition. The potential clients can, for instance, make the most of the special reseller programs that are on offer by several Tier 1 Carriers. The small and medium establishments can make the most of these programs and offer specialized IP telephony services to their customers.
The clients wishing to enter the domain of voice over IP can redistribute airtime that they lease out from higher level VoIP providers. The back end of the businesses are also taken care of at the provider's end and there are absolutely no hassles involved. The clients can concentrate on marketing their services; they can go to the extent of building their own brand names. Many a VoIP service provider also offer training and support services that enable the new resellers to service their clients in a better manner.
A client, wanting to become a VoIP provider, would however need to make some investment on hardware and software before it can see the returns on its investment. There are several companies that are offering very attractive reseller packages and the potential users can pick and choose depending on their specific requirements.
The UK VoIP providers, like their counterparts in other regions of the globe, are paying particular attention to the marketing of their services within their customer base. They could go for sms marketing or email marketing and reach the target users with the maximum impact. The corporate sites could also contain the announcement regarding the launch of these very tempting services - a fact that is sure to garner a lot of attention and generate a lot in terms of sales.
The businesses wishing to make their mark in this domain must realize one important fact. They should understand that a majority of the population in the world is not yet ready to replace their existing telephone lines with a voice over IP connection. They are however, more than willing to try out the services, along with the traditional means of telephony. More tech-savvy users are going in for the change and making the most of all the innovative services and value-added benefits that this service has to offer. Given this backdrop, there is more than ample scope for a VoIP service provider to deliver its sales pitch and be sure of a very positive response towards the same.
VoIP Provider - Easy Ways To Become One
By Kristen Kiya
Special expertise or skill sets are not required to become a VoIP provider. The risks involved are also minimal. In addition, there are more than one way to deal with the competition. The potential clients can, for instance, make the most of the special reseller programs that are on offer by several Tier 1 Carriers. The small and medium establishments can make the most of these programs and offer specialized IP telephony services to their customers.
The clients wishing to enter the domain of voice over IP can redistribute airtime that they lease out from higher level VoIP providers. The back end of the businesses are also taken care of at the provider's end and there are absolutely no hassles involved. The clients can concentrate on marketing their services; they can go to the extent of building their own brand names. Many a VoIP service provider also offer training and support services that enable the new resellers to service their clients in a better manner.
A client, wanting to become a VoIP provider, would however need to make some investment on hardware and software before it can see the returns on its investment. There are several companies that are offering very attractive reseller packages and the potential users can pick and choose depending on their specific requirements.
The UK VoIP providers, like their counterparts in other regions of the globe, are paying particular attention to the marketing of their services within their customer base. They could go for sms marketing or email marketing and reach the target users with the maximum impact. The corporate sites could also contain the announcement regarding the launch of these very tempting services - a fact that is sure to garner a lot of attention and generate a lot in terms of sales.
The businesses wishing to make their mark in this domain must realize one important fact. They should understand that a majority of the population in the world is not yet ready to replace their existing telephone lines with a voice over IP connection. They are however, more than willing to try out the services, along with the traditional means of telephony. More tech-savvy users are going in for the change and making the most of all the innovative services and value-added benefits that this service has to offer. Given this backdrop, there is more than ample scope for a VoIP service provider to deliver its sales pitch and be sure of a very positive response towards the same.
VoIP Provider - Easy Ways To Become One
By Kristen Kiya
Freshtel 3010 ATA
Design
Freshtel's 3010 ATA (it's actually a slightly rebadged Virbiage 3010 ATA) is a small white and green adaptor that allows you to connect up any standard landline phone and utilise it for making VoIP based calls. Naturally, Freshtel would be happiest if you were using it with their network, although the configuration utility does open up the possibility of using it with other providers; you'll still have to live with the apple green Freshtel badge on the top, however.
The 3010 is visually very simple, with a single large indicator light on the front that flashes one of three colours -- red for initial booting sequences, green for a solid VoIP connection, and orange for any problems or if the ATA hasn't been configured to any provider. Ports on the back are used for connecting up to a router/hub or ethernet port, a standard landline telephone and a power supply. Like most other ATAs, there's little to go wrong with the 3010, although more cautious users might find it a touch worrying that none of the ports are labelled. You're unlikely to fit an ethernet cable into the phone port by accident, but stranger things have happened.
Aside from the ATA device itself, the 3010 box also includes the necessary power adaptor and a short length of standard ethernet cable for connecting up to a router or hub; you'll have to provide the phone part yourself.
Features
In order to configure the 3010, you'll need to access its configuration pages, which can be viewed by any web browser. The 3010 features a very clever method for determining the IP address you'll need. Once you've connected up the ATA to your router/hub, and plugged in a standard telephone, you'll get dial tone, at which point hitting the star key three times will make the ATA recite the IP address of the ATA back to you. If you're feeling particularly brave, you can even force an IP address on the ATA via your phone keypad.
Once you've got the IP address of the 3010, you can directly access the web based configurator. As web configuration utilities go, the 3010 is quite simple to get the hang of, and the very nervous will appreciate the quick setup guide that Freshtel provides in the box, which guides you very simply through entering the correct settings for VoIP functionality. Aside from configuring the provider, the 3010 also lets you set default speaker and microphone settings -- bearing in mind that as a device that'll work independently of your PC and even when it's off -- as well as local date and security settings. Of note for those on limited download dialup plans, the default setting for the 3010 is to automatically download any available firmware updates; those who skirt the limits of their plans on a regular basis may wish to disable this and manage firmware updates manually.
Performance
VoIP call quality is a very tough nut to accurately test. Invariably, if there's a problem, the VoIP provider will point to the PSTN network for quality problems, while the telephone companies will bemoan the VoIP providers or the ISP. Your mileage may vary, and it's worth bearing in mind that if your home network configuration allows for QoS-style settings to enable VoIP traffic over other traffic, it's often well worth enabling to ensure smoothest possible VoIP perfomance.
That being said, our test calls via the 3010 delivered mostly good call performance from an ADSL2+ broadband connection, calling local, mobile and international numbers and utilising Freshtel's VoIP service (you can read our review here). As the 3010 works in a PC-free environment, all of its calling functions are direct, so you don't need to hit any key combination for normal PSTN calls, although you will need to remember to input the area code, even for local calls. The 3010 does support free calls on the Firefly network, for which you'll need to hit the star key followed by the user's Firefly number.
The 3010 ATA is simple to use and configure, and it's priced at a competitive level to other ATA devices. In our tests it performed well and was simple to use, and thus comes recommended.
Freshtel's 3010 ATA (it's actually a slightly rebadged Virbiage 3010 ATA) is a small white and green adaptor that allows you to connect up any standard landline phone and utilise it for making VoIP based calls. Naturally, Freshtel would be happiest if you were using it with their network, although the configuration utility does open up the possibility of using it with other providers; you'll still have to live with the apple green Freshtel badge on the top, however.
The 3010 is visually very simple, with a single large indicator light on the front that flashes one of three colours -- red for initial booting sequences, green for a solid VoIP connection, and orange for any problems or if the ATA hasn't been configured to any provider. Ports on the back are used for connecting up to a router/hub or ethernet port, a standard landline telephone and a power supply. Like most other ATAs, there's little to go wrong with the 3010, although more cautious users might find it a touch worrying that none of the ports are labelled. You're unlikely to fit an ethernet cable into the phone port by accident, but stranger things have happened.
Aside from the ATA device itself, the 3010 box also includes the necessary power adaptor and a short length of standard ethernet cable for connecting up to a router or hub; you'll have to provide the phone part yourself.
Features
In order to configure the 3010, you'll need to access its configuration pages, which can be viewed by any web browser. The 3010 features a very clever method for determining the IP address you'll need. Once you've connected up the ATA to your router/hub, and plugged in a standard telephone, you'll get dial tone, at which point hitting the star key three times will make the ATA recite the IP address of the ATA back to you. If you're feeling particularly brave, you can even force an IP address on the ATA via your phone keypad.
Once you've got the IP address of the 3010, you can directly access the web based configurator. As web configuration utilities go, the 3010 is quite simple to get the hang of, and the very nervous will appreciate the quick setup guide that Freshtel provides in the box, which guides you very simply through entering the correct settings for VoIP functionality. Aside from configuring the provider, the 3010 also lets you set default speaker and microphone settings -- bearing in mind that as a device that'll work independently of your PC and even when it's off -- as well as local date and security settings. Of note for those on limited download dialup plans, the default setting for the 3010 is to automatically download any available firmware updates; those who skirt the limits of their plans on a regular basis may wish to disable this and manage firmware updates manually.
Performance
VoIP call quality is a very tough nut to accurately test. Invariably, if there's a problem, the VoIP provider will point to the PSTN network for quality problems, while the telephone companies will bemoan the VoIP providers or the ISP. Your mileage may vary, and it's worth bearing in mind that if your home network configuration allows for QoS-style settings to enable VoIP traffic over other traffic, it's often well worth enabling to ensure smoothest possible VoIP perfomance.
That being said, our test calls via the 3010 delivered mostly good call performance from an ADSL2+ broadband connection, calling local, mobile and international numbers and utilising Freshtel's VoIP service (you can read our review here). As the 3010 works in a PC-free environment, all of its calling functions are direct, so you don't need to hit any key combination for normal PSTN calls, although you will need to remember to input the area code, even for local calls. The 3010 does support free calls on the Firefly network, for which you'll need to hit the star key followed by the user's Firefly number.
The 3010 ATA is simple to use and configure, and it's priced at a competitive level to other ATA devices. In our tests it performed well and was simple to use, and thus comes recommended.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
VoIP Phones - Drawbacks You Need To Be Aware Of
Being one of the best ways to cut cost on international calling, Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is gradually becoming very popular all over the world. As using VoIP phones lets you avail the facility of International calling at price what you pay for local charges, it helps you saving a lot of monthly bill each month. For many like businessmen having their business abroad, MNCs, etc. VoIP solution is a boon. Despite several of advantages you avail through VoIP, there are some drawbacks attached with it. And knowing it can help you to use the VoIP service with greater ease.
The biggest drawback coming in the way of VoIP solution is its dependency on the the Internet connection. Suppose you have your connection down due to some reasons, you will probably fail to make calls. With dial up connection, you can make local calls, but if the broadband connection is down, you can't make calls to any international location. Thus, any disorder in your Internet connection may keep you off making calls. Even speed and quality of your Internet connection are important factors enabling you smooth calling through VoIP phones. If your connection has got poor quality or speed, you may not be able to make any call.
The another important shortcoming of VoIP solution is its reliance upon power supply. Usually, a PSTN phone will keep working even the power goes off. Contrary to it, VoIP phones stops working if the power is off. This way, you may suffer some loses if your making calls are very important. Moreover, as the entire process of VoIP solution is attached to Internet, it may be infected by Internet viruses. Besides, Internet hacking is also one of the severe problems threatening the entire process of VoIP. While you are using this service, it is important that you consider such issues. It may help you being better prepared to meet with some shortcomings gifted by VoIP
The biggest drawback coming in the way of VoIP solution is its dependency on the the Internet connection. Suppose you have your connection down due to some reasons, you will probably fail to make calls. With dial up connection, you can make local calls, but if the broadband connection is down, you can't make calls to any international location. Thus, any disorder in your Internet connection may keep you off making calls. Even speed and quality of your Internet connection are important factors enabling you smooth calling through VoIP phones. If your connection has got poor quality or speed, you may not be able to make any call.
The another important shortcoming of VoIP solution is its reliance upon power supply. Usually, a PSTN phone will keep working even the power goes off. Contrary to it, VoIP phones stops working if the power is off. This way, you may suffer some loses if your making calls are very important. Moreover, as the entire process of VoIP solution is attached to Internet, it may be infected by Internet viruses. Besides, Internet hacking is also one of the severe problems threatening the entire process of VoIP. While you are using this service, it is important that you consider such issues. It may help you being better prepared to meet with some shortcomings gifted by VoIP
Voip Phones - Cheap Way of Communication
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is emerging as a smooth and cheap way of communication these days. With a VoIP phone you can make international calls at a much lower rate as compared to the other modes of communication. For having a VoIP phone you need to have an internet connection and an appropriate device in order to make a call anywhere in the world with much reduced cost.
All the leading manufacturers like Philips, linksys, Siemens and Panasonic are coming out with advanced VoIP phones one after another. These VoIP devices incorporate maximum features which are comfortable, efficient and easy to use.
VoIP phones are very much popular these days and individuals and corporate organisations are purchasing the latest VoIP phones that are available in the market. Some of the latest handsets available in the market are VoIP 4331 MSN Messenger phone from Gigaset and Philips, WIP330 Wireless-G IP phone from Linksys and C460 IP DECT VoIP Telephone from Siemens. You may find many advanced VoIP phones available in the market which you can choose according to your communication needs and requirements.
These VoIP phones support Microsoft Windows, Wi-Fi technology and the common features like conferencing facilities, call wait, call transfer, call forward, called ID, call mute, etc. In addition to this, you will find good sound quality and increased standby and talk time with these phones.
You can find VoIP phones to be cost effective and can get it from any leading web stores. So, have a VoIP phone and talk at length from your office or home to your near and dear ones at lower rates.
Voip Phones - Cheap Way of Communication
By Jayson Pablo
All the leading manufacturers like Philips, linksys, Siemens and Panasonic are coming out with advanced VoIP phones one after another. These VoIP devices incorporate maximum features which are comfortable, efficient and easy to use.
VoIP phones are very much popular these days and individuals and corporate organisations are purchasing the latest VoIP phones that are available in the market. Some of the latest handsets available in the market are VoIP 4331 MSN Messenger phone from Gigaset and Philips, WIP330 Wireless-G IP phone from Linksys and C460 IP DECT VoIP Telephone from Siemens. You may find many advanced VoIP phones available in the market which you can choose according to your communication needs and requirements.
These VoIP phones support Microsoft Windows, Wi-Fi technology and the common features like conferencing facilities, call wait, call transfer, call forward, called ID, call mute, etc. In addition to this, you will find good sound quality and increased standby and talk time with these phones.
You can find VoIP phones to be cost effective and can get it from any leading web stores. So, have a VoIP phone and talk at length from your office or home to your near and dear ones at lower rates.
Voip Phones - Cheap Way of Communication
By Jayson Pablo
VOIP Innovations - VOIP Call Center - VOIP Web Conferencing And More
Voip services have taken the world by a storm mainly due to its low cost. Many experts in the field of communication feel that voice over Internet protocol will replace the existing telephone system. New innovations like voip call center and voip web conferencing are saving both time and money of several big and small organizations. Business establishments have clearly identified the potential of voip services and are investing more in Voip than in any other communication sector.
Travel expenses and time, the two main concerns of main organizations, have been satisfactorily dealt by Voip web conferencing. Voip web conferencing reduces cost on travel by collaborating in real time with several people at a time and sharing the work and ideas. This saves time which unfortunately is a rare commodity for several corporate organizations. Geographical limits are no longer a problem for business establishments as voip web conferencing allows visual and vocal communication with anyone in any part of the world. Voip web conferencing can be saved for a later date or distributed to those unable to attend the particular meeting. Contentious issues can be put to poll immediately through Voip web conferencing.
Voip is revolutionizing the way call centers are managed. The use of Voip services allows call centers to route calls to home workers and other sub centers. The use of Voip services has led to tremendous growth in call center business as it allows easy expansion at low cost. Today, call centers using Voip services can work from anywhere with the service of a voip broadband phone provider. Voip services can integrate with other services available over the Internet. This includes video conversation, data exchange parallel with the conversation, audio conferencing and managing address books. The potential of voip are many and when in full use it will totally revolutionize the way people communicate.
Travel expenses and time, the two main concerns of main organizations, have been satisfactorily dealt by Voip web conferencing. Voip web conferencing reduces cost on travel by collaborating in real time with several people at a time and sharing the work and ideas. This saves time which unfortunately is a rare commodity for several corporate organizations. Geographical limits are no longer a problem for business establishments as voip web conferencing allows visual and vocal communication with anyone in any part of the world. Voip web conferencing can be saved for a later date or distributed to those unable to attend the particular meeting. Contentious issues can be put to poll immediately through Voip web conferencing.
Voip is revolutionizing the way call centers are managed. The use of Voip services allows call centers to route calls to home workers and other sub centers. The use of Voip services has led to tremendous growth in call center business as it allows easy expansion at low cost. Today, call centers using Voip services can work from anywhere with the service of a voip broadband phone provider. Voip services can integrate with other services available over the Internet. This includes video conversation, data exchange parallel with the conversation, audio conferencing and managing address books. The potential of voip are many and when in full use it will totally revolutionize the way people communicate.
How To Get A Free Voip - Voice Over IP?
VoIP is the transmission of voice traffic over IP networks.
It's an internet advent which is known as Voice over Internet
Protocol. VoIP is a new technology which allows you to bypass
a traditional telecommunication companies to get your own
low cost call through your computer.
How To Get A Free Voip or Voice Over IP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol ) technology enables you
to make and receive free phone calls over the internet.
You can only receive a call from other people who have
downloaded the same piece of software. In some case, it is
only a PC to PC system. For example, if you've downloaded
Skype VoIP software, you can only make and receive calls
from other people who have Skype.
How To Make A Call with VoIP?
VoIP allows you to make a call directly from:
- your computer,
- a special VoIP phone,
- a traditional phone connected to an adapter.
When you're using a VoIP service , your voice is sent
through the Internet in a digital signal form. When you
call a person who uses a traditional phone lines, your
voice will be converted into a regular telephone
signal before it reaches the destination.
What Do You Need as VoIP Equipment?
To get the most out of your VoIP technology, you need:
a broadband (high speed Internet) connection such as
a local area network or high speed services ( DSL ).
You also need:
- a computer,
- an adapter,
- or specialized phone
- some software
- an inexpensive microphone
In most cases you can use your Computer while talking
on the Phone. VoIP technology offers services and
features a traditional phone companies do not. VoIP
calling is no different than using any other type of
telephone. You can save money by eliminating the need
for a phone line and paying only for high speed
internet access.
It's an internet advent which is known as Voice over Internet
Protocol. VoIP is a new technology which allows you to bypass
a traditional telecommunication companies to get your own
low cost call through your computer.
How To Get A Free Voip or Voice Over IP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol ) technology enables you
to make and receive free phone calls over the internet.
You can only receive a call from other people who have
downloaded the same piece of software. In some case, it is
only a PC to PC system. For example, if you've downloaded
Skype VoIP software, you can only make and receive calls
from other people who have Skype.
How To Make A Call with VoIP?
VoIP allows you to make a call directly from:
- your computer,
- a special VoIP phone,
- a traditional phone connected to an adapter.
When you're using a VoIP service , your voice is sent
through the Internet in a digital signal form. When you
call a person who uses a traditional phone lines, your
voice will be converted into a regular telephone
signal before it reaches the destination.
What Do You Need as VoIP Equipment?
To get the most out of your VoIP technology, you need:
a broadband (high speed Internet) connection such as
a local area network or high speed services ( DSL ).
You also need:
- a computer,
- an adapter,
- or specialized phone
- some software
- an inexpensive microphone
In most cases you can use your Computer while talking
on the Phone. VoIP technology offers services and
features a traditional phone companies do not. VoIP
calling is no different than using any other type of
telephone. You can save money by eliminating the need
for a phone line and paying only for high speed
internet access.
VoIP Phone Service - Convenient Facilities With Broadband Service
The VoIP phone service is a very innovative system of making calls. This system of telephony allows users to connect to others throughout the globe. The VoIP phone service facilitates people to connect with the aid of a computer and an internet connection. This makes it possible for users to connect to others at very low cost. International calls can be made easily with the help of the VoIP services.
In addition to this, the VoIP phone service also allows users to connect to others with the aid of broadband. It brings corporate business solutions to world wide users. On personal front too, it is very beneficial. The users can manage their programs from home very easily. Making long distant calls is no longer an issue with this device. As the system is based on converting analog signals to digital form, so data can be transferred very easily with the help of this technology. The user can also transfer videos and pictures on the VoIP network.
The broadband Phone Service VoIP is used for accessing ultimate flexibility in terms of providing high end connectivity. The users normally find it useful to make use of specialised phone if they are not using their personal computers. These specialised gadgets mostly are mobile phones. So, by using them, the users are relieved of power outrages. Now one is not dependent on power supply and can use mobile phones instead of computer to connect via VoIP. The VoIP internet phone service has now become a means to connect very easily to other gadgets. The users can make long distance calls from any place without any hassle.
The VoIP service provider comply with Communications Assistance. It is where the user finds the option to transmit more than one telephone call. The users can make use of this technology to make conference calling, automatic redial, call forwarding and the showing of caller ID. Digitising and digital transmission of data and calls make it evident that user can make the best use of this telephony service.
The cost involved in making international calls is reduced dramatically with the introduction of Voice Over network. This is what actually attracts business houses such as call centers to avail the VoIP telephony services. It helps to expand business with the various options of 3-way calling, call diverting, voice to email and Voicemail services.
The usefulness of VoIP makes it a rare technology when compared to other traditional forms of connectivity. The technology is entitled to connect with users all around the globe without any interruption. Moreover, with the emergence of resellers, this technology has become a much hyped network as its availability is enhanced. The VoIP phone service make users very content with the the broadband form of telephony service.
In addition to this, the VoIP phone service also allows users to connect to others with the aid of broadband. It brings corporate business solutions to world wide users. On personal front too, it is very beneficial. The users can manage their programs from home very easily. Making long distant calls is no longer an issue with this device. As the system is based on converting analog signals to digital form, so data can be transferred very easily with the help of this technology. The user can also transfer videos and pictures on the VoIP network.
The broadband Phone Service VoIP is used for accessing ultimate flexibility in terms of providing high end connectivity. The users normally find it useful to make use of specialised phone if they are not using their personal computers. These specialised gadgets mostly are mobile phones. So, by using them, the users are relieved of power outrages. Now one is not dependent on power supply and can use mobile phones instead of computer to connect via VoIP. The VoIP internet phone service has now become a means to connect very easily to other gadgets. The users can make long distance calls from any place without any hassle.
The VoIP service provider comply with Communications Assistance. It is where the user finds the option to transmit more than one telephone call. The users can make use of this technology to make conference calling, automatic redial, call forwarding and the showing of caller ID. Digitising and digital transmission of data and calls make it evident that user can make the best use of this telephony service.
The cost involved in making international calls is reduced dramatically with the introduction of Voice Over network. This is what actually attracts business houses such as call centers to avail the VoIP telephony services. It helps to expand business with the various options of 3-way calling, call diverting, voice to email and Voicemail services.
The usefulness of VoIP makes it a rare technology when compared to other traditional forms of connectivity. The technology is entitled to connect with users all around the globe without any interruption. Moreover, with the emergence of resellers, this technology has become a much hyped network as its availability is enhanced. The VoIP phone service make users very content with the the broadband form of telephony service.
Long Distance Calls With VoIP
VoIP or voice over Internet protocol is a technology where the voice data is being transmitted over the Internet connection. It is a phone call technology using the connection or access of Internet. This technology is being growth rapidly these days. It is because of VoIP unlimited services that can reach the unlimited call. VoIP is also known as the IP telephony or VoIP broadband phone service. VoIP unlimited service offers the unlimited calls that can reach to the world wide access. By using your high speed Internet connection, you can save your time and money with making unlimited calls with VoIP. This technology also can reach you to the long distance calling.
VoIP or sometimes called as broadband telephony may reach the long distance call from anyone to everyone in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and other countries. The quality of the phone call is as good as your previous or existing phone service. Keeping your phone number to wherever you will go, you are still able to make the USA long distance calls by choosing the area code. If you are tired of paying too much on your phone bills because of your long distance phone calls, VoIP is the proper answer for your problem of phone bills. The best deal is with minimum fare of $19.99, you can make phone calls wherever you want. You do not need to worry when you are in state or around the world. The cost of this voice over internet protocol is very cheap. Besides making the long distance phone calls, you are also able to make a local phone call with VoIP.
The unlimited local and long distance calls of VoIP is able to reach several countries around the world, such as Australia, United States of America, Taiwan, France, Germany, Canada, United Kingdom, Moscow, including Mobile South Korea, and other more countries.
Long Distance Calls With VoIP
By Dita Nadia
VoIP or sometimes called as broadband telephony may reach the long distance call from anyone to everyone in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and other countries. The quality of the phone call is as good as your previous or existing phone service. Keeping your phone number to wherever you will go, you are still able to make the USA long distance calls by choosing the area code. If you are tired of paying too much on your phone bills because of your long distance phone calls, VoIP is the proper answer for your problem of phone bills. The best deal is with minimum fare of $19.99, you can make phone calls wherever you want. You do not need to worry when you are in state or around the world. The cost of this voice over internet protocol is very cheap. Besides making the long distance phone calls, you are also able to make a local phone call with VoIP.
The unlimited local and long distance calls of VoIP is able to reach several countries around the world, such as Australia, United States of America, Taiwan, France, Germany, Canada, United Kingdom, Moscow, including Mobile South Korea, and other more countries.
Long Distance Calls With VoIP
By Dita Nadia
VoIP Phone Service Saves you Money
If you're wondering how to save big money on your phone bills, VoIP can
help. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP has gone from little known a few years ago to widespread use today. Why are millions of business and residential customers using VoIP everyday?
VoIP does not need landlines to operate. If you have a broadband connection to
the internet, you can call any phone, internet or landline in the country or
around the world. Making phone calls using VoIP can save you quite a bit. Most
residential users are charged $25 per month or less for unlimited calls made
throughout America and only a few pennies per minute for international calls. If
you want high quality calls without the high price look into VoIP.
VoIP provides some advantages not found on land-based lines, or traditional type
cell phones. By taking your VoIP phone along with you on a trip, you can
receive calls anywhere you can connect to the internet. This is great for
business travelers who spend a lot of their time on the phone in hotel rooms,
etc. VoIP phones can be easily used with other services available over the
Internet, including video conferencing , text messaging and data transferal.
You can use VoIP very easily. Most service provider give you a phone adapter
that is plugged into your broadband internet connect at home or special software
for downloading onto your computer. By using either your computer or a regular
landline phone attached to the adapter, you'll soon be making phone calls
throughout the country or worldwide.
There a a few drawbacks associated with VoIP service. Emergency 911 calls are
currently unavailable with some VoIP providers. Be sure you have a back-up plan
for emergency situations. Also unlike those using a traditional land line phone,
you will be dependant on electrical power and your computer to make your calls.
VoIP Phone Service Saves you Money
By Jim Lotter
help. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP has gone from little known a few years ago to widespread use today. Why are millions of business and residential customers using VoIP everyday?
VoIP does not need landlines to operate. If you have a broadband connection to
the internet, you can call any phone, internet or landline in the country or
around the world. Making phone calls using VoIP can save you quite a bit. Most
residential users are charged $25 per month or less for unlimited calls made
throughout America and only a few pennies per minute for international calls. If
you want high quality calls without the high price look into VoIP.
VoIP provides some advantages not found on land-based lines, or traditional type
cell phones. By taking your VoIP phone along with you on a trip, you can
receive calls anywhere you can connect to the internet. This is great for
business travelers who spend a lot of their time on the phone in hotel rooms,
etc. VoIP phones can be easily used with other services available over the
Internet, including video conferencing , text messaging and data transferal.
You can use VoIP very easily. Most service provider give you a phone adapter
that is plugged into your broadband internet connect at home or special software
for downloading onto your computer. By using either your computer or a regular
landline phone attached to the adapter, you'll soon be making phone calls
throughout the country or worldwide.
There a a few drawbacks associated with VoIP service. Emergency 911 calls are
currently unavailable with some VoIP providers. Be sure you have a back-up plan
for emergency situations. Also unlike those using a traditional land line phone,
you will be dependant on electrical power and your computer to make your calls.
VoIP Phone Service Saves you Money
By Jim Lotter
What are virtual or hosted PBX systems?
Conventionally, the mention of the words �PBX phone systems� brings about an image of expensive equipments, miles of entangled wires, and complex connections. For a large corporation having large number of employees, managing the PBX system requires lot of expertise. A company has to maintain dedicated staff for these specific tasks. Additionally, the system has to be updated periodically to meet the ever increasing needs of the growing company. A company can avoid this constant upgrades and maintenance tasks by switching over to a hosted PBX system.
A hosted PBX system operates in a virtual environment. There is no need for purchasing and installing any PBX equipments. A company simply has to subscribe with a hosted PBX service provider. All the functionalities of a standard PBX system are delivered to the company through a dedicated telephone or high bandwidth Internet connection. The company is therefore relieved from the trouble of constantly updating its PBX systems. The equipments are maintained and upgraded at the service provider�s location. Any new kind of functionality that is developed by a service provider is instantly made available to the company.
A hosted PBX system is shared among numerous users. Hence the cost that comes down to each client is far less than that incurred through a premise based PBX system. Apart from the cost benefits, a company can get all the advanced features which originally only large companies could boast of. Some of the advanced features include voice to email service (Voice Mail), fax to email service (fax mail), virtual numbers, local phone numbers of any specified area codes, toll free numbers, fax numbers, automated attendant, fax on demand, find me/ follow me, combined fax and voice mailbox, and quality answering service. All these features are made available at affordable monthly rates.
A PBX Phone system in a virtual environment helps a company to maintain a certain kind of physical independence. Through a hosted PBX system, a company can get local numbers of certain area codes. These local numbers give a local presence for the company without it being physically present in the region. The find-me/follow-me feature is useful for good client/customer interaction, since the customer service professionals of the company can always be contacted irrespective of their current location. A company having numerous satellite offices can appear to function from a single location using central local or toll free numbers. Calls to these numbers are routed automatically to the appropriate recipients by the system. A hosted PBX system thus gives a small company a big company image through the loads of features and virtual setting.
A hosted PBX system operates in a virtual environment. There is no need for purchasing and installing any PBX equipments. A company simply has to subscribe with a hosted PBX service provider. All the functionalities of a standard PBX system are delivered to the company through a dedicated telephone or high bandwidth Internet connection. The company is therefore relieved from the trouble of constantly updating its PBX systems. The equipments are maintained and upgraded at the service provider�s location. Any new kind of functionality that is developed by a service provider is instantly made available to the company.
A hosted PBX system is shared among numerous users. Hence the cost that comes down to each client is far less than that incurred through a premise based PBX system. Apart from the cost benefits, a company can get all the advanced features which originally only large companies could boast of. Some of the advanced features include voice to email service (Voice Mail), fax to email service (fax mail), virtual numbers, local phone numbers of any specified area codes, toll free numbers, fax numbers, automated attendant, fax on demand, find me/ follow me, combined fax and voice mailbox, and quality answering service. All these features are made available at affordable monthly rates.
A PBX Phone system in a virtual environment helps a company to maintain a certain kind of physical independence. Through a hosted PBX system, a company can get local numbers of certain area codes. These local numbers give a local presence for the company without it being physically present in the region. The find-me/follow-me feature is useful for good client/customer interaction, since the customer service professionals of the company can always be contacted irrespective of their current location. A company having numerous satellite offices can appear to function from a single location using central local or toll free numbers. Calls to these numbers are routed automatically to the appropriate recipients by the system. A hosted PBX system thus gives a small company a big company image through the loads of features and virtual setting.
Sipgate releases Real VOIP App for the iPhone
Sipgate Inc, a San Francisco-based company has just launched their free native application for the iPhone which allows iPhone users to make and receive VOIP calls over Wi-Fi using any SIP-based VoIP-service similar to Fring that was released a couple of months back an Israeli startup. More details and screenshots of the native iPhone app available after the jump.
VoIP Reviw: Raketu review !
I’ve been using Raketu for a few weeks prior to this review. This newcomer to the VoIP arena made its debut on September 12, 2006, and it shows definite promise. Their goal is to do no less than to overtake Skype as the leader in Internet voice communications, with the following strategy:
1. Offer more features than anyone else. Never have I seen this many features wrapped up into an IM client:
SIP compatible
Voicemail
Conference calling
Subscribe to news, stocks, weather, podcasts and other RSS feeds
Integrated media player with karaoke mode
Picture viewer
Integrated travel planner, using Yahoo's Farechase for cheap flight results
Send free SMS text messages to mobile phones
Download game plug-ins to play with others online
2. Offer free calls to landlines in 42 countries until the end of 2006. I've been told that Raketu may add more countries to this list as we approach December, and they are also considering an extension of the promotion into 2007. However, I have found that in order to make free calls, you must have at least $0.01 of credit on your Raketu account. You can sign up for the free trial, which will put $0.01 into your account for 1 hour, but it will revert back to $0.00 after 1 hour whether or not you have been using the service for the entire time.
3. Offer interoperability with other IM clients. The Multi-Messenger lets you exchange text messages with your contacts from any of the following accounts into a single interface:
AOL Instant Messenger
ICQ
MSN Messenger
Google Talk
Yahoo Messenger
Skype (*Skype is not integrated into Raketu the way the other clients are. In order to communicate with Skype contacts from Raketu, a Skype client must be installed and running on your PC.)
4. Offer a less controversial VoIP service by not creating Supernodes. With this approach, Raketu avoids a security issue that plagues Skype while still claiming to have high completion rates and excellent voice quality.
Raketu is banking on these four offers to propel them to internet telephony fame. They also want to launch RakIn and RadioShow services in the near future. Everything (except the battleships game plug-in) comes in an installer package of only 3.4 MB. So far, everything looks good. We'll have to wait and find out if Raketu will be successful in becoming a Skype-killer.
Interface
If Raketu wants to attract more users, they'll have to make some major changes to the usability and appearance of both the website and the application. I navigated through all the pages in the website and all the windows in the application, but the process just wasn't intuitive. However, once you know where everything is, you'll find that nothing is more than one or two clicks away. And in an e-mail exchange, their tech support team mentioned that the website will be re-developed with user friendliness in mind. With that aside, the Help menu offers informative guides and movie tutorials that every beginner should be sure to check out.
Voice quality
Now we arrive at the make-or-break issue. Does it sound alright? Can I understand the person I'm talking to? And you'll be glad to know that the clarity is fine. Though it's not like a local call on a standard phone, the quality is on par with Skype and cell phones, with little to no noticeable echo or static.
Raketu advertises that it only needs a connection speed of 36 kbps to make calls, as long as the user isn't downloading any files at the same time. For those of you on WiFi connections, they also claim that Raketu works even when your signal strength is as low as 15%. I haven't tested Raketu on dial-up, but when I was making calls at a WiFi hotspot (with a good signal), I found that the voice "stuttered" a little bit. This would happen for a few minutes then clear up. Of course this depends on your WiFi connection, but for best results stick with wired broadband.
Bug Report
Nowhere on Raketu's website or in the program does it mention that this program is in BETA testing. The current version is 1.0 but they still have a built-in mechanism for reporting bugs. Rather than using that form, I'm going to just list my finds here. I'm sure the Raketu team will be fixing them in an upcoming release.
Stocks often say [Quote not available]
Weather feeds work only on occasion
Newsreader doesn't format combined Blogger/Feedburner feeds well, though this problem may be caused by either Blogger or Feedburner because most feeds are fine
The media player has unhelpful error messages when required codecs are missing
The multi-messenger occasionally crashes upon closing
To wrap-up, Raketu is a product you'll want to look out for in the future. Once they've dealt with their usability issues and fixed some bugs, their rich feature set may give them the advantage over Skype and other competitors. The functionality is all there, now it just needs to be optimized for the masses.
Pros: Good voice quality, free calling promotion, no supernodes, compatibility with SIP and IM clients, free SMS, many features, guides, tips, and tricks
Cons: User friendliness, appearance, must buy credits to make free calls, lingering bugs
1. Offer more features than anyone else. Never have I seen this many features wrapped up into an IM client:
SIP compatible
Voicemail
Conference calling
Subscribe to news, stocks, weather, podcasts and other RSS feeds
Integrated media player with karaoke mode
Picture viewer
Integrated travel planner, using Yahoo's Farechase for cheap flight results
Send free SMS text messages to mobile phones
Download game plug-ins to play with others online
2. Offer free calls to landlines in 42 countries until the end of 2006. I've been told that Raketu may add more countries to this list as we approach December, and they are also considering an extension of the promotion into 2007. However, I have found that in order to make free calls, you must have at least $0.01 of credit on your Raketu account. You can sign up for the free trial, which will put $0.01 into your account for 1 hour, but it will revert back to $0.00 after 1 hour whether or not you have been using the service for the entire time.
3. Offer interoperability with other IM clients. The Multi-Messenger lets you exchange text messages with your contacts from any of the following accounts into a single interface:
AOL Instant Messenger
ICQ
MSN Messenger
Google Talk
Yahoo Messenger
Skype (*Skype is not integrated into Raketu the way the other clients are. In order to communicate with Skype contacts from Raketu, a Skype client must be installed and running on your PC.)
4. Offer a less controversial VoIP service by not creating Supernodes. With this approach, Raketu avoids a security issue that plagues Skype while still claiming to have high completion rates and excellent voice quality.
Raketu is banking on these four offers to propel them to internet telephony fame. They also want to launch RakIn and RadioShow services in the near future. Everything (except the battleships game plug-in) comes in an installer package of only 3.4 MB. So far, everything looks good. We'll have to wait and find out if Raketu will be successful in becoming a Skype-killer.
Interface
If Raketu wants to attract more users, they'll have to make some major changes to the usability and appearance of both the website and the application. I navigated through all the pages in the website and all the windows in the application, but the process just wasn't intuitive. However, once you know where everything is, you'll find that nothing is more than one or two clicks away. And in an e-mail exchange, their tech support team mentioned that the website will be re-developed with user friendliness in mind. With that aside, the Help menu offers informative guides and movie tutorials that every beginner should be sure to check out.
Voice quality
Now we arrive at the make-or-break issue. Does it sound alright? Can I understand the person I'm talking to? And you'll be glad to know that the clarity is fine. Though it's not like a local call on a standard phone, the quality is on par with Skype and cell phones, with little to no noticeable echo or static.
Raketu advertises that it only needs a connection speed of 36 kbps to make calls, as long as the user isn't downloading any files at the same time. For those of you on WiFi connections, they also claim that Raketu works even when your signal strength is as low as 15%. I haven't tested Raketu on dial-up, but when I was making calls at a WiFi hotspot (with a good signal), I found that the voice "stuttered" a little bit. This would happen for a few minutes then clear up. Of course this depends on your WiFi connection, but for best results stick with wired broadband.
Bug Report
Nowhere on Raketu's website or in the program does it mention that this program is in BETA testing. The current version is 1.0 but they still have a built-in mechanism for reporting bugs. Rather than using that form, I'm going to just list my finds here. I'm sure the Raketu team will be fixing them in an upcoming release.
Stocks often say [Quote not available]
Weather feeds work only on occasion
Newsreader doesn't format combined Blogger/Feedburner feeds well, though this problem may be caused by either Blogger or Feedburner because most feeds are fine
The media player has unhelpful error messages when required codecs are missing
The multi-messenger occasionally crashes upon closing
To wrap-up, Raketu is a product you'll want to look out for in the future. Once they've dealt with their usability issues and fixed some bugs, their rich feature set may give them the advantage over Skype and other competitors. The functionality is all there, now it just needs to be optimized for the masses.
Pros: Good voice quality, free calling promotion, no supernodes, compatibility with SIP and IM clients, free SMS, many features, guides, tips, and tricks
Cons: User friendliness, appearance, must buy credits to make free calls, lingering bugs
Jajah or Nonoh Review the race to the bottom.
Upstart VoIP service nonoh thinks it can save you more money than its predecessor, jajah. Both are phone-to-phone services, which means you just initiate the call on their website, and the service calls both parties and connects them to each other at lower rates than the regular phone companies. This comes in handy mostly for international calls, especially for those countries in which there is a telecom monopoly with outrageous long distance fees.
Bhagaban points out that the service was developed by Betamax, and that there are some amazing deals to certain countries.
For example, you can make free calls to China, Taiwan, and Thailand. Even South Korea and Turkey made the list of free destinations.
Vinay adds:
Nonoh bluntly says we offer better rates than Jajah and well they seriously do. Who on earth gives free calls to countries like Brazil, Japan and Malaysia? I have some countries which can't even dream to be in the free VOIP country list. NoNoh has simply cracked the market with this FREE VOIP calling service
Over at Computerwoche (German) they remind us that nonoh only allows 5 hours of talk time per week, and your credit expires after 120 days.
This 120 day credit expiration limit seems to be a trademark of Betamax, so that you will continue to pay $10 every four months in order to keep making free calls.
Bhagaban points out that the service was developed by Betamax, and that there are some amazing deals to certain countries.
For example, you can make free calls to China, Taiwan, and Thailand. Even South Korea and Turkey made the list of free destinations.
Vinay adds:
Nonoh bluntly says we offer better rates than Jajah and well they seriously do. Who on earth gives free calls to countries like Brazil, Japan and Malaysia? I have some countries which can't even dream to be in the free VOIP country list. NoNoh has simply cracked the market with this FREE VOIP calling service
Over at Computerwoche (German) they remind us that nonoh only allows 5 hours of talk time per week, and your credit expires after 120 days.
This 120 day credit expiration limit seems to be a trademark of Betamax, so that you will continue to pay $10 every four months in order to keep making free calls.
Wireless Broadband Meets VoIP
For a long time, wireless cell phones using broadband were the only solution to communicating on the go. But a few years ago, people developed a new way to communicate with their phones and it’s called VoIP, or voice over internet protocol. Many people may have already heard of Vonage, the company that pioneered the use of VoIP, but these same people may not know what it is and how it works. People also might be wondering why it’s a lot cheaper than traditional wireless plans.
VoIP is a new revolutionary way to make phone calls, sometimes for free. This new technology allows you to make phone calls through your computer and an internet connection. It uses IP addresses to connect you to whoever you’re trying to call. But voIP isn’t limited to just computer to computer phone calls. It can also make calls when someone is in reach of any wi-fi hotspot. All you need is a IP phone and a power supply. Of course, with every new technology, there will be up-sides and down-sides.
When you subscribe to a service like Vonage, they will only charge you around thirty dollars a month while other cell phone companies will charge around fifty. If you download VoIP software off the internet and use it to make long distance calls, it will cost you nothing in most cases and it takes around five minutes to set it up. Now, companies are developing ways to allow people to use voIP on popular smart phones such as the Motorola Q and the Samsung Blackjack. The reason it’s so cheap is that voIP costs about a two thirds less than wireless to maintain. Placing a call using VoIP will only cost a company like Vonage one third of the cost that Cingular or T-mobile has to pay. And now that people know how to convert wireless phones to IP phones using Motorola Q accessories or Samsung Blackjack Accessories, cell phone companies are starting to lose business to VoIP providers, but new technology always has certain important disadvantages.
For example, when you do not have a WI-FI signal, the phone will have no dial tone. Also, emergency calls to 911 will be a problem as well. These IP calls are untraceable so if you are unable to tell the 911 operator where you are, they won’t be able to find you.
VoIP won’t be a large threat to wireless companies for a decade or two because of these problems. They are not small either and it will take companies like Cingular more than a decade to switch to this cheaper technology. Stay with your expensive wireless company for now.
Natalie Aranda is a freelance writer. For a long time, wireless cell phones using broadband were the only solution to communicating on the go. But a few years ago, people developed a new way to communicate with their phones and it’s called VoIP, or voice over internet protocol. And now that people know how to convert wireless phones to IP phones using Motorola Q accessories or Samsung Blackjack Accessories, cell phone companies are starting to lose business to VoIP providers, but new technology always has certain important disadvantages.
When Wireless Broadband Meets VoIP
By Natalie Aranda
VoIP is a new revolutionary way to make phone calls, sometimes for free. This new technology allows you to make phone calls through your computer and an internet connection. It uses IP addresses to connect you to whoever you’re trying to call. But voIP isn’t limited to just computer to computer phone calls. It can also make calls when someone is in reach of any wi-fi hotspot. All you need is a IP phone and a power supply. Of course, with every new technology, there will be up-sides and down-sides.
When you subscribe to a service like Vonage, they will only charge you around thirty dollars a month while other cell phone companies will charge around fifty. If you download VoIP software off the internet and use it to make long distance calls, it will cost you nothing in most cases and it takes around five minutes to set it up. Now, companies are developing ways to allow people to use voIP on popular smart phones such as the Motorola Q and the Samsung Blackjack. The reason it’s so cheap is that voIP costs about a two thirds less than wireless to maintain. Placing a call using VoIP will only cost a company like Vonage one third of the cost that Cingular or T-mobile has to pay. And now that people know how to convert wireless phones to IP phones using Motorola Q accessories or Samsung Blackjack Accessories, cell phone companies are starting to lose business to VoIP providers, but new technology always has certain important disadvantages.
For example, when you do not have a WI-FI signal, the phone will have no dial tone. Also, emergency calls to 911 will be a problem as well. These IP calls are untraceable so if you are unable to tell the 911 operator where you are, they won’t be able to find you.
VoIP won’t be a large threat to wireless companies for a decade or two because of these problems. They are not small either and it will take companies like Cingular more than a decade to switch to this cheaper technology. Stay with your expensive wireless company for now.
Natalie Aranda is a freelance writer. For a long time, wireless cell phones using broadband were the only solution to communicating on the go. But a few years ago, people developed a new way to communicate with their phones and it’s called VoIP, or voice over internet protocol. And now that people know how to convert wireless phones to IP phones using Motorola Q accessories or Samsung Blackjack Accessories, cell phone companies are starting to lose business to VoIP providers, but new technology always has certain important disadvantages.
When Wireless Broadband Meets VoIP
By Natalie Aranda
Phone Power Review - What You Need to Know Home
Phone Power review:
My Phone Power review will discuss the different features, prices, customer service, call quality, reliability and few other features that go into account when reviewing a VoIP service such as Phone Power. Our main purpose of this Phone Power review is to make sure everyone gets a good, clear understanding of what their experience with Phone Power would be like if they were to purchase Phone Power's service. I hope you enjoy our review of phone power!
If you'd like to go directly to the Phone Power website to start right away, Click Here to activate a 6 months free promotion, courtesy of VoIP-Reviewer.com
Our general rating we give Phone Power is fantastic. Phone Power provides exceptional call reliability, sound quality, overall value and customer service. I personally think Phone Power is the top VoIP phone service around. . That tells me that Phone Power is making a monumental commitment to make sure they'll be here for the long run. Since this is a Phone Power review, I shouldn't stop there! So, I'll discuss some of the more detailed information for their VoIP phone service.
Sound Quality:
Phone Power’s call quality is remarkable. I use Phone Power myself, and I've never experienced a dropped call, ever. A couple times there was a small amount of "muffle sound. Other than that, calls have been perfect. I don't think anyone can tell the difference of Phone Power vs. regular telephone services. In a nutshell, Phone Power's VoIP uses normal audio data, turns it into a digital format, then uses that data to transmit over the internet. Phone Power is able to master that technology, and in doing so, they allow themselves to provide consumers with astounding sound/call quality. Call quality is a huge determining factor when choosing a VoIP provider. Phone Power understands this, and its made their customers very enthusiastic. Sound quality: 5 stars!
Reliability:
As I mentioned in the call quality Phone Power review, I’ve never had a dropped call. In addition to that, I’ve never been unable to reach anyone. By themselves, the quality of the calls, and the reliability of the calls really make Phone Power have a powerfull presence in the VoIP industry. There are hardly any VoIP companies that can really support that type of service. I've seen a lot of unhappy customers from other VoIP providers who just don't supply good reliability. If you're an unhappy customer with another VoIP service, give phone power a shot and you won't regret it! Our Phone Power review on reliability is simple: They're the best...
Customer Support:
The few times I personally had to call Phone Power customer service, it was a fast and easy process that was handled on the first call. For this Phone Power review, I give them a full 5 stars. The representatives I spoke to were very polite, sounded and were very knowledgeable, and most importantly to me, were very professional. Again, for this Phone Power review I have to give them 5 stars!
Pricing:
I love this part of the review! For what Phone Power offers, their pricing is just spectacular.
Here is the current list of Phone Powers plans:
Residential 500: Unlimited inbound calls, 500 minutes outgoing: $14.95 Per Month. ($9.95 first 3 months)
Residential Freedom: Unlimited inbound/outbound: $19.95 Per Month. ($9.95 first 3 months)
Residential Freedom: 6 Months Prepaid: $14 Per Month
Residential Freedom: 1 Year Prepaid: $11 Per Month - $199.95 for 18 Months - (6 Months Free)
The above promotions, as well as a coupon to waive the $15 activation fee, are available Here, courtesy of VoIP-Reviewer.com
Phone Power also supplies business plans, but for this Phone Power review we wont review them. Look out for another Phone Power review discussing their business plans.
Features:
Phone Power has a lot of features and benefits. Even if you do not use them all, it's great to know Phone Power has them available. Here’s a partial list of the features Phone Power offers:
(Note: This Phone Power review was published in mid-late 2008, Phone Power could have updated their feature list by the time you read this)
Voicemail Viewer, Call Hold, Log Viewer, Do Not Disturb, Music on Hold, *69, Call Waiting, Speed Dial List, Click2Call and more.
Phone Power has a lot of different other features as well.
Miscelaneous:
No contracts. You can cancel your service at any time, without any extra charges. I think it is really great because you never have to worry about cancelling your service and getting charged for it.
Free equipment: Again, courtesy of VoIP-Reviewer.com , you can get your equipment completely free!
My Phone Power review will discuss the different features, prices, customer service, call quality, reliability and few other features that go into account when reviewing a VoIP service such as Phone Power. Our main purpose of this Phone Power review is to make sure everyone gets a good, clear understanding of what their experience with Phone Power would be like if they were to purchase Phone Power's service. I hope you enjoy our review of phone power!
If you'd like to go directly to the Phone Power website to start right away, Click Here to activate a 6 months free promotion, courtesy of VoIP-Reviewer.com
Our general rating we give Phone Power is fantastic. Phone Power provides exceptional call reliability, sound quality, overall value and customer service. I personally think Phone Power is the top VoIP phone service around. . That tells me that Phone Power is making a monumental commitment to make sure they'll be here for the long run. Since this is a Phone Power review, I shouldn't stop there! So, I'll discuss some of the more detailed information for their VoIP phone service.
Sound Quality:
Phone Power’s call quality is remarkable. I use Phone Power myself, and I've never experienced a dropped call, ever. A couple times there was a small amount of "muffle sound. Other than that, calls have been perfect. I don't think anyone can tell the difference of Phone Power vs. regular telephone services. In a nutshell, Phone Power's VoIP uses normal audio data, turns it into a digital format, then uses that data to transmit over the internet. Phone Power is able to master that technology, and in doing so, they allow themselves to provide consumers with astounding sound/call quality. Call quality is a huge determining factor when choosing a VoIP provider. Phone Power understands this, and its made their customers very enthusiastic. Sound quality: 5 stars!
Reliability:
As I mentioned in the call quality Phone Power review, I’ve never had a dropped call. In addition to that, I’ve never been unable to reach anyone. By themselves, the quality of the calls, and the reliability of the calls really make Phone Power have a powerfull presence in the VoIP industry. There are hardly any VoIP companies that can really support that type of service. I've seen a lot of unhappy customers from other VoIP providers who just don't supply good reliability. If you're an unhappy customer with another VoIP service, give phone power a shot and you won't regret it! Our Phone Power review on reliability is simple: They're the best...
Customer Support:
The few times I personally had to call Phone Power customer service, it was a fast and easy process that was handled on the first call. For this Phone Power review, I give them a full 5 stars. The representatives I spoke to were very polite, sounded and were very knowledgeable, and most importantly to me, were very professional. Again, for this Phone Power review I have to give them 5 stars!
Pricing:
I love this part of the review! For what Phone Power offers, their pricing is just spectacular.
Here is the current list of Phone Powers plans:
Residential 500: Unlimited inbound calls, 500 minutes outgoing: $14.95 Per Month. ($9.95 first 3 months)
Residential Freedom: Unlimited inbound/outbound: $19.95 Per Month. ($9.95 first 3 months)
Residential Freedom: 6 Months Prepaid: $14 Per Month
Residential Freedom: 1 Year Prepaid: $11 Per Month - $199.95 for 18 Months - (6 Months Free)
The above promotions, as well as a coupon to waive the $15 activation fee, are available Here, courtesy of VoIP-Reviewer.com
Phone Power also supplies business plans, but for this Phone Power review we wont review them. Look out for another Phone Power review discussing their business plans.
Features:
Phone Power has a lot of features and benefits. Even if you do not use them all, it's great to know Phone Power has them available. Here’s a partial list of the features Phone Power offers:
(Note: This Phone Power review was published in mid-late 2008, Phone Power could have updated their feature list by the time you read this)
Voicemail Viewer, Call Hold, Log Viewer, Do Not Disturb, Music on Hold, *69, Call Waiting, Speed Dial List, Click2Call and more.
Phone Power has a lot of different other features as well.
Miscelaneous:
No contracts. You can cancel your service at any time, without any extra charges. I think it is really great because you never have to worry about cancelling your service and getting charged for it.
Free equipment: Again, courtesy of VoIP-Reviewer.com , you can get your equipment completely free!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
World Phone unveils VoIP plans in India
World Phone Internet Services, India's leading Category "A" ISP, has announced its plans to provide post-paid VoIP for the first time in the country.
The monthly plans are targeted towards Indian companies, and will enable them to make calls to the USA, UK, Australia and Canada at Rs 995 onwards, effectively bringing the price down to less than 50 paisa per minute. This would be the cheapest international call rate in India on any legal Internet telephony network.
World Phone has many leading Indian companies among its clients, including HCL Technologies, NIIT Technologies, Perot Systems, NDTV, Fidelity Information Systems and TVS InfoTech.
Currently, World Phone negotiates over seven million international call minutes through its Internet telephony network every month, placing it amongst the frontrunners in the Internet telephony industry in India.
The monthly plans are targeted towards Indian companies, and will enable them to make calls to the USA, UK, Australia and Canada at Rs 995 onwards, effectively bringing the price down to less than 50 paisa per minute. This would be the cheapest international call rate in India on any legal Internet telephony network.
World Phone has many leading Indian companies among its clients, including HCL Technologies, NIIT Technologies, Perot Systems, NDTV, Fidelity Information Systems and TVS InfoTech.
Currently, World Phone negotiates over seven million international call minutes through its Internet telephony network every month, placing it amongst the frontrunners in the Internet telephony industry in India.
Vonage Review + Pros and Cons
For those of you who haven't switched to Vonage yet and may just be
thinking about it, I thought this list of pros and cons may be
useful. It is by no means complete and some of these may not apply
to all people.
Also, I calculated a while ago that the $40 unlimited plan is better
only if you consistently make over 858 minutes of calls per month.
Pros:
- CHEAP! For $26 you get what most phone companies may charge $65 -
$70 for.
- Cheaper international calling rates; calls to Canada
count as domestic calls.
- Ability to PROFIT from having service; if you can
make one referral per month, you will get $40 back per
month translating to a profit of over $13/month if you have $26 plan.
More referrals, more profit.
- Detailed and continuously updated online tracking
ability.
- All calls to other Vonage numbers regardless of area
code count as local calls.
- Virtual number capability; For $5/month you can get
a second number in any Vonage area code so people can
call you from that area code for free.
- Good e-mail customer service.
- ALL calls within area code are local and free; Not necessarily the
case with local phone companies in many area codes.
- Can easily turn on or off voicemail temporarily.
- Can easily enable or disable international calling.
- Easy number transportability; You can take Vonage
box anywhere in the WORLD where there is broadband and
receive your calls.
- Ability to access voice-mail anywhere you have
online access.
- Can easily enable voice-mail to kick in instantly or
from anywhere between 5 and 50 seconds once ringing
begins.
- 3.9 cents/minute for long distance calls over 500
minutes. No major carrier I know of has rates that
low unless you include cell phones.
Cons:
- Poor telephone customer service, though it is
getting better.
- Bases of all phones in your house must connect to
the Cisco ATA provided by Vonage.
- Caller ID gives number only, not name.
- Switch to service may result in change in phone number.
- If you lose power, you lose Vonage service; though
you can have calls transferred to any other phone
number for free.
- 11 digit dialing required for ALL calls. Most local phone
companies don't require this.
Reviewer: dspandit
thinking about it, I thought this list of pros and cons may be
useful. It is by no means complete and some of these may not apply
to all people.
Also, I calculated a while ago that the $40 unlimited plan is better
only if you consistently make over 858 minutes of calls per month.
Pros:
- CHEAP! For $26 you get what most phone companies may charge $65 -
$70 for.
- Cheaper international calling rates; calls to Canada
count as domestic calls.
- Ability to PROFIT from having service; if you can
make one referral per month, you will get $40 back per
month translating to a profit of over $13/month if you have $26 plan.
More referrals, more profit.
- Detailed and continuously updated online tracking
ability.
- All calls to other Vonage numbers regardless of area
code count as local calls.
- Virtual number capability; For $5/month you can get
a second number in any Vonage area code so people can
call you from that area code for free.
- Good e-mail customer service.
- ALL calls within area code are local and free; Not necessarily the
case with local phone companies in many area codes.
- Can easily turn on or off voicemail temporarily.
- Can easily enable or disable international calling.
- Easy number transportability; You can take Vonage
box anywhere in the WORLD where there is broadband and
receive your calls.
- Ability to access voice-mail anywhere you have
online access.
- Can easily enable voice-mail to kick in instantly or
from anywhere between 5 and 50 seconds once ringing
begins.
- 3.9 cents/minute for long distance calls over 500
minutes. No major carrier I know of has rates that
low unless you include cell phones.
Cons:
- Poor telephone customer service, though it is
getting better.
- Bases of all phones in your house must connect to
the Cisco ATA provided by Vonage.
- Caller ID gives number only, not name.
- Switch to service may result in change in phone number.
- If you lose power, you lose Vonage service; though
you can have calls transferred to any other phone
number for free.
- 11 digit dialing required for ALL calls. Most local phone
companies don't require this.
Reviewer: dspandit
Motorola VT2142 Review - Teletypewriter
Before I begin my review, I'd like to mention few things.
TTY stands for teletypewriter and it's use for deaf, hard-of-hearing, hearing impaired, and those with speech disabilities. When a "dialer" (person who makes a phone call) dials a TTY number via a TTY, a dialer receives a response from a caller (for example, "HELLO THIS IS TAMMIE GA") which translates to TTY tones from their TTY and in my end, my TTY translates from TTY tones back to text typed from a caller. ("GA" stands for "Go Ahead" and "SK," which was not mentioned, stands for "Stop Keying.")
About the "relay" that will be mentioned in my review, when you dial 711, a state relay operator will answer a phone and types "FL OPR ID###### NBR PLS GA" (where ##### is an operator's ID number) for you to dial the number from your TTY and when done, you type "GA." Now, let's get to the point on how relay works. When a relay operator dials a number you've provided, the relay operator dials the number for you. When a caller picks up the phone and says "Hello," as an example, the relay operator types "HELLO GA" to you, and you identify your name and start typing for beginning your conversation. The relay operator takes the place for speaking to a caller and if necessary, explains the relay to a caller (but not all the time, in order to save time between you and your caller). This is very handy for those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
So, with those two out of the way, let's begin a review.
Well, in case you may not know, Vonage doesn't support 711 dialing. The reason for this is if you block International Calling (good thing to prevent anyone in your house/apartment from making International phone calls to save your money), if you can hear and have a standard phone, you will hear "International calling had been blocked" and I've experienced this since the Vonage services thinks that 711 is an International number because the first digit starts with "7." Thus, I get no text in my TTY. I've e-mailed Vonage Customer Support as a request to add support for dialing 711, but Vonage told me they don't offer feature request. And I found it as a bummer for those who use 711. To remedy this, you will have to do a search in the Internet for a state relay number and dial that 1-800 number. It's a pain to remember but it's true.
If you have an ability to hear, Vonage V-Forecast (700-WEATHER -- 700-932-8437) is a great feature if you don't have time to turn on your computer or watch TV to look at the weather forecast. It's a time-saver! But there's a disadvantage to those with TTY (including me): No TTY support! Another disadvantage is the synthetic speech--it sounded like the woman is ill and didn't seem to pronounce the words very well but can almost understand the numbers, so the speech synthesizer really needs improvement.
I've not used most of the features, but one feature is the Autometic Call Return. You have to be able to hear and speak if you dial *69 and so you can call back.
The service and call quality is great! I haven't been missing a single character in my TTY and haven't got a wrong character in my TTY. I have my TTY connected to my Motorola VT2142, which connects between the cable modem and my D-Link DI-524 Wireless-G Router. With the highest bandwidth used, devices like Motorola VT2142 and VT2442 supports G.711 codec, used for plain old telephone standard (POTS) back on 1970s.
Vonage also has a Voicemail service but you kinda need to have a standard telephone and follow the instructions for setting up a greeting. However, I've made too many mistakes and went over the limit, which made me feel nervious (I sweat) and will have to try it again later (my fault in my part since every mistake will be recorded in the greeting message and made too many changes over the limit). I'll suggest you use your TTY's built-in answering machine if you have one. For me, it's not that easy to not look at the keyboard since by lending my back forward, this could increase my chance of making more mistakes than when keeping my back straight typed with little to no mistakes possible.
Overall, I'll give Vonage 8 out of 10.
Reviewer: GraysonPeddie
TTY stands for teletypewriter and it's use for deaf, hard-of-hearing, hearing impaired, and those with speech disabilities. When a "dialer" (person who makes a phone call) dials a TTY number via a TTY, a dialer receives a response from a caller (for example, "HELLO THIS IS TAMMIE GA") which translates to TTY tones from their TTY and in my end, my TTY translates from TTY tones back to text typed from a caller. ("GA" stands for "Go Ahead" and "SK," which was not mentioned, stands for "Stop Keying.")
About the "relay" that will be mentioned in my review, when you dial 711, a state relay operator will answer a phone and types "FL OPR ID###### NBR PLS GA" (where ##### is an operator's ID number) for you to dial the number from your TTY and when done, you type "GA." Now, let's get to the point on how relay works. When a relay operator dials a number you've provided, the relay operator dials the number for you. When a caller picks up the phone and says "Hello," as an example, the relay operator types "HELLO GA" to you, and you identify your name and start typing for beginning your conversation. The relay operator takes the place for speaking to a caller and if necessary, explains the relay to a caller (but not all the time, in order to save time between you and your caller). This is very handy for those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
So, with those two out of the way, let's begin a review.
Well, in case you may not know, Vonage doesn't support 711 dialing. The reason for this is if you block International Calling (good thing to prevent anyone in your house/apartment from making International phone calls to save your money), if you can hear and have a standard phone, you will hear "International calling had been blocked" and I've experienced this since the Vonage services thinks that 711 is an International number because the first digit starts with "7." Thus, I get no text in my TTY. I've e-mailed Vonage Customer Support as a request to add support for dialing 711, but Vonage told me they don't offer feature request. And I found it as a bummer for those who use 711. To remedy this, you will have to do a search in the Internet for a state relay number and dial that 1-800 number. It's a pain to remember but it's true.
If you have an ability to hear, Vonage V-Forecast (700-WEATHER -- 700-932-8437) is a great feature if you don't have time to turn on your computer or watch TV to look at the weather forecast. It's a time-saver! But there's a disadvantage to those with TTY (including me): No TTY support! Another disadvantage is the synthetic speech--it sounded like the woman is ill and didn't seem to pronounce the words very well but can almost understand the numbers, so the speech synthesizer really needs improvement.
I've not used most of the features, but one feature is the Autometic Call Return. You have to be able to hear and speak if you dial *69 and so you can call back.
The service and call quality is great! I haven't been missing a single character in my TTY and haven't got a wrong character in my TTY. I have my TTY connected to my Motorola VT2142, which connects between the cable modem and my D-Link DI-524 Wireless-G Router. With the highest bandwidth used, devices like Motorola VT2142 and VT2442 supports G.711 codec, used for plain old telephone standard (POTS) back on 1970s.
Vonage also has a Voicemail service but you kinda need to have a standard telephone and follow the instructions for setting up a greeting. However, I've made too many mistakes and went over the limit, which made me feel nervious (I sweat) and will have to try it again later (my fault in my part since every mistake will be recorded in the greeting message and made too many changes over the limit). I'll suggest you use your TTY's built-in answering machine if you have one. For me, it's not that easy to not look at the keyboard since by lending my back forward, this could increase my chance of making more mistakes than when keeping my back straight typed with little to no mistakes possible.
Overall, I'll give Vonage 8 out of 10.
Reviewer: GraysonPeddie
Vonage, a VT2142 and a RTP300, My Experiences - A Detailed Review
The Vonage Linksys RTP300
I've had a lot of products from all the big people in networking, Linksys, Netgear, D-Link, Motorola
I started Vonage with a Motorola VT2142, Hated it, it's malfunctioning, someone had a PAP2 and I wanted four ethernet ports instead of one on the PAP and the 2142, after a lot, Vonage sent it out, arriving two days late
Right after I plugged it in, it sprang too life, immediately DHCP'ed Windows an IP, and registered my line withing five seconds. Usually the 2142 would register the line in about a min, then link up too Windows, which would then take a minute too acquire a usually static IP, due too the non-working port forwarding, I had too use DMZ for even simple stuff like VNC. I use U-VNC's PCHelpWare with some of my customers, and the Motorola Wouldn't forward the port I use for it, so I had too use DMZ on Static Routing...
Anyway... after picking up the phone and confirming it was there, I went into the browser and logged into the router control panel, and too my joy port forwarding worked, and so did my DDNS sub domain, so I could use it with VNC, instead of my IP for convenience and anonymity After setting some things up in the control panel. connecting some more computers, setting up OpenDNS through the routers (yay!) and then called a certain Canadian friend (eh?) who'd been complaining about bad quality audio on my very expensive phone, which was resolved by connecting too the landline which carries my DSL, he said it sounded as good or better than the landline! It was really expensive though too call him on that AT&T local landline... Glad Vonage has it free...
Been able too use PChelpware through DDNS, so I can distribute one copy of the server instead of distributing it individually too change the IP... Never had any problems with the device, excellent audio quality, great routing capabilities, very good built in firewall ,and the NAT can take a punch. not gotten anything blocked by the firewall on Windows, so I turned it off and left it up too the router.
I had a weird occurrence today when I lost my line for a moment, but I think that was Vonage, I restarted the router three times and it re-registered...
Overall, Great device, Always great routing from Linksys, Gonna get a WRT54GL on here and use DDWRT and make my apartment into a hot-spot :D Id recommend going off to a retailer or buying a RTP300 or a PAP2 off of Ebay, I know PAP2's still available at all the retailers you may be able too find a RTP300. Don't get a D-Link VWR, they're crap, and if you want too have a very custom LAN, or even port forwarding, Don't get a Motorola device.
Don't know why but International's been on the fritz lately for your's truly, been getting left high and dry, after two or three rings, think if you dial internationally, you ring about three times in the US to an international gateway trunk, then ring out too the country, but the ones near be are weird, gotten dumped into this strange noise trunk where I can faintly hear crosstalk from other lines, gotten bad rings, Need too fix up your international trunkage out of So. Cal.
Til next review,
Seanie B,
I've had a lot of products from all the big people in networking, Linksys, Netgear, D-Link, Motorola
I started Vonage with a Motorola VT2142, Hated it, it's malfunctioning, someone had a PAP2 and I wanted four ethernet ports instead of one on the PAP and the 2142, after a lot, Vonage sent it out, arriving two days late
Right after I plugged it in, it sprang too life, immediately DHCP'ed Windows an IP, and registered my line withing five seconds. Usually the 2142 would register the line in about a min, then link up too Windows, which would then take a minute too acquire a usually static IP, due too the non-working port forwarding, I had too use DMZ for even simple stuff like VNC. I use U-VNC's PCHelpWare with some of my customers, and the Motorola Wouldn't forward the port I use for it, so I had too use DMZ on Static Routing...
Anyway... after picking up the phone and confirming it was there, I went into the browser and logged into the router control panel, and too my joy port forwarding worked, and so did my DDNS sub domain, so I could use it with VNC, instead of my IP for convenience and anonymity After setting some things up in the control panel. connecting some more computers, setting up OpenDNS through the routers (yay!) and then called a certain Canadian friend (eh?) who'd been complaining about bad quality audio on my very expensive phone, which was resolved by connecting too the landline which carries my DSL, he said it sounded as good or better than the landline! It was really expensive though too call him on that AT&T local landline... Glad Vonage has it free...
Been able too use PChelpware through DDNS, so I can distribute one copy of the server instead of distributing it individually too change the IP... Never had any problems with the device, excellent audio quality, great routing capabilities, very good built in firewall ,and the NAT can take a punch. not gotten anything blocked by the firewall on Windows, so I turned it off and left it up too the router.
I had a weird occurrence today when I lost my line for a moment, but I think that was Vonage, I restarted the router three times and it re-registered...
Overall, Great device, Always great routing from Linksys, Gonna get a WRT54GL on here and use DDWRT and make my apartment into a hot-spot :D Id recommend going off to a retailer or buying a RTP300 or a PAP2 off of Ebay, I know PAP2's still available at all the retailers you may be able too find a RTP300. Don't get a D-Link VWR, they're crap, and if you want too have a very custom LAN, or even port forwarding, Don't get a Motorola device.
Don't know why but International's been on the fritz lately for your's truly, been getting left high and dry, after two or three rings, think if you dial internationally, you ring about three times in the US to an international gateway trunk, then ring out too the country, but the ones near be are weird, gotten dumped into this strange noise trunk where I can faintly hear crosstalk from other lines, gotten bad rings, Need too fix up your international trunkage out of So. Cal.
Til next review,
Seanie B,
Vonage, a VT2142 and a RTP300, My Experiences - A Detailed Review
The Vonage Linksys RTP300
I've had a lot of products from all the big people in networking, Linksys, Netgear, D-Link, Motorola
I started Vonage with a Motorola VT2142, Hated it, it's malfunctioning, someone had a PAP2 and I wanted four ethernet ports instead of one on the PAP and the 2142, after a lot, Vonage sent it out, arriving two days late
Right after I plugged it in, it sprang too life, immediately DHCP'ed Windows an IP, and registered my line withing five seconds. Usually the 2142 would register the line in about a min, then link up too Windows, which would then take a minute too acquire a usually static IP, due too the non-working port forwarding, I had too use DMZ for even simple stuff like VNC. I use U-VNC's PCHelpWare with some of my customers, and the Motorola Wouldn't forward the port I use for it, so I had too use DMZ on Static Routing...
Anyway... after picking up the phone and confirming it was there, I went into the browser and logged into the router control panel, and too my joy port forwarding worked, and so did my DDNS sub domain, so I could use it with VNC, instead of my IP for convenience and anonymity After setting some things up in the control panel. connecting some more computers, setting up OpenDNS through the routers (yay!) and then called a certain Canadian friend (eh?) who'd been complaining about bad quality audio on my very expensive phone, which was resolved by connecting too the landline which carries my DSL, he said it sounded as good or better than the landline! It was really expensive though too call him on that AT&T local landline... Glad Vonage has it free...
Been able too use PChelpware through DDNS, so I can distribute one copy of the server instead of distributing it individually too change the IP... Never had any problems with the device, excellent audio quality, great routing capabilities, very good built in firewall ,and the NAT can take a punch. not gotten anything blocked by the firewall on Windows, so I turned it off and left it up too the router.
I had a weird occurrence today when I lost my line for a moment, but I think that was Vonage, I restarted the router three times and it re-registered...
Overall, Great device, Always great routing from Linksys, Gonna get a WRT54GL on here and use DDWRT and make my apartment into a hot-spot :D Id recommend going off to a retailer or buying a RTP300 or a PAP2 off of Ebay, I know PAP2's still available at all the retailers you may be able too find a RTP300. Don't get a D-Link VWR, they're crap, and if you want too have a very custom LAN, or even port forwarding, Don't get a Motorola device.
Don't know why but International's been on the fritz lately for your's truly, been getting left high and dry, after two or three rings, think if you dial internationally, you ring about three times in the US to an international gateway trunk, then ring out too the country, but the ones near be are weird, gotten dumped into this strange noise trunk where I can faintly hear crosstalk from other lines, gotten bad rings, Need too fix up your international trunkage out of So. Cal.
I've had a lot of products from all the big people in networking, Linksys, Netgear, D-Link, Motorola
I started Vonage with a Motorola VT2142, Hated it, it's malfunctioning, someone had a PAP2 and I wanted four ethernet ports instead of one on the PAP and the 2142, after a lot, Vonage sent it out, arriving two days late
Right after I plugged it in, it sprang too life, immediately DHCP'ed Windows an IP, and registered my line withing five seconds. Usually the 2142 would register the line in about a min, then link up too Windows, which would then take a minute too acquire a usually static IP, due too the non-working port forwarding, I had too use DMZ for even simple stuff like VNC. I use U-VNC's PCHelpWare with some of my customers, and the Motorola Wouldn't forward the port I use for it, so I had too use DMZ on Static Routing...
Anyway... after picking up the phone and confirming it was there, I went into the browser and logged into the router control panel, and too my joy port forwarding worked, and so did my DDNS sub domain, so I could use it with VNC, instead of my IP for convenience and anonymity After setting some things up in the control panel. connecting some more computers, setting up OpenDNS through the routers (yay!) and then called a certain Canadian friend (eh?) who'd been complaining about bad quality audio on my very expensive phone, which was resolved by connecting too the landline which carries my DSL, he said it sounded as good or better than the landline! It was really expensive though too call him on that AT&T local landline... Glad Vonage has it free...
Been able too use PChelpware through DDNS, so I can distribute one copy of the server instead of distributing it individually too change the IP... Never had any problems with the device, excellent audio quality, great routing capabilities, very good built in firewall ,and the NAT can take a punch. not gotten anything blocked by the firewall on Windows, so I turned it off and left it up too the router.
I had a weird occurrence today when I lost my line for a moment, but I think that was Vonage, I restarted the router three times and it re-registered...
Overall, Great device, Always great routing from Linksys, Gonna get a WRT54GL on here and use DDWRT and make my apartment into a hot-spot :D Id recommend going off to a retailer or buying a RTP300 or a PAP2 off of Ebay, I know PAP2's still available at all the retailers you may be able too find a RTP300. Don't get a D-Link VWR, they're crap, and if you want too have a very custom LAN, or even port forwarding, Don't get a Motorola device.
Don't know why but International's been on the fritz lately for your's truly, been getting left high and dry, after two or three rings, think if you dial internationally, you ring about three times in the US to an international gateway trunk, then ring out too the country, but the ones near be are weird, gotten dumped into this strange noise trunk where I can faintly hear crosstalk from other lines, gotten bad rings, Need too fix up your international trunkage out of So. Cal.
Vonage 6 Month Review - Motorola VT2142 - Las Vegas, NV
It's been 6 months since I signed up with Vonage with relatively few hiccups, most of which weren't the fault of Vonage, but my local cable company.
I signed up on October 4th, 2006 and by the 9th I had my adapter. In less than 5 minutes I was up and running. The call clarity was just as good as my traditional land-line, except I was paying LESS for MORE.
I originally signed up for the $24.99/mo. Residential Unlimited plan, but then switched in February to the $14.99/mo. 500 minute Residential plan because I knew I wasn't spending 500 minutes on the phone in any given month. Changing plans was a piece of cake, and I did so over the internet in a matter of minutes.
The few times I've had to call customer service I've been relatively pleased with their resolutions to my problems. Which as I've stated before, were very few. I've had more problems with my local cable company, but even then it's no problem because if my cable goes out, incoming calls get routed to my Network Unavailable Number.
That's not all either. With call forwarding, and SimulRing, I can have my number forwarded to another number of my choice whenever I want, or have my number ring simultaneously at home, and at up to 5 other numbers at the same time. I'm NEVER out of reach.
Call waiting is great too! If I get a call while I'm on the phone, I check the caller ID and if it's someone I want or need to talk to right then and there, I take the call, otherwise it gets routed to my Vonage Voicemail which I've set up to send me the message as an attachment to my e-mail address.
But Vonage also lets you know you have voicemail by a blinking light on your Vonage router, or a stutter tone when you pick up your telephone. You can dial in, go online, or as said before, just check your e-mail for your messages. It couldn't be easier!
I LOVE V-Forecast, which is a free service of Vonage. Calling them I can get current temperatures and 5-day forecasts of virtually ANY zip code in the United States.
And that's just the tip of the iceberg in terms of features that Vonage offers, all for NO ADDITIONAL COST other than your montly plan.
Overall, Vonage is a steal of a deal, and I couldn't be happier. I said goodbye to my local telephone company in January and I don't regret it.
I signed up on October 4th, 2006 and by the 9th I had my adapter. In less than 5 minutes I was up and running. The call clarity was just as good as my traditional land-line, except I was paying LESS for MORE.
I originally signed up for the $24.99/mo. Residential Unlimited plan, but then switched in February to the $14.99/mo. 500 minute Residential plan because I knew I wasn't spending 500 minutes on the phone in any given month. Changing plans was a piece of cake, and I did so over the internet in a matter of minutes.
The few times I've had to call customer service I've been relatively pleased with their resolutions to my problems. Which as I've stated before, were very few. I've had more problems with my local cable company, but even then it's no problem because if my cable goes out, incoming calls get routed to my Network Unavailable Number.
That's not all either. With call forwarding, and SimulRing, I can have my number forwarded to another number of my choice whenever I want, or have my number ring simultaneously at home, and at up to 5 other numbers at the same time. I'm NEVER out of reach.
Call waiting is great too! If I get a call while I'm on the phone, I check the caller ID and if it's someone I want or need to talk to right then and there, I take the call, otherwise it gets routed to my Vonage Voicemail which I've set up to send me the message as an attachment to my e-mail address.
But Vonage also lets you know you have voicemail by a blinking light on your Vonage router, or a stutter tone when you pick up your telephone. You can dial in, go online, or as said before, just check your e-mail for your messages. It couldn't be easier!
I LOVE V-Forecast, which is a free service of Vonage. Calling them I can get current temperatures and 5-day forecasts of virtually ANY zip code in the United States.
And that's just the tip of the iceberg in terms of features that Vonage offers, all for NO ADDITIONAL COST other than your montly plan.
Overall, Vonage is a steal of a deal, and I couldn't be happier. I said goodbye to my local telephone company in January and I don't regret it.
India Is Ready For Vonage VoIP Services
Which Broadband Provider for VoIP?
June 21, 2005
By Vipul Shah
Q: We have been out of Mumbai since sometime... and hence do not have info about trends and service providers etc...
We are looking for broadband service provider in chembur
area. We only need to use the net for web-surfing + voice chat + email. Please give me as much or as little info that you might have.
A: Give a shot to MTNL Tri Band ADSL services. In most part of Mumbai they have enabled it and if you fill up form tomorrow it would start service at your home within 2-3 days Someone from MTNL will come with ADSL modem which will plug into your PC's Ethernet port. You can expect 256kbps speed, which is good enough for most applications including VoIP. MTNL would also offer you ADSL modem which will plug into USB port but don’t take this option as unlike Ethernet devices, USB devices are heavily driver dependent and next time you have to change/upgrade operating system of your PC if they don’t have driver for your device your PC won’t be able to use it.
Unlike Sify, Hathway, Seven Star etc you don't have to worry about cable fault or switches going bad between your home and local operator. This happens to chembur Sify connections often, sometimes 2-3 times a week. And every time you register a complaint, even if fault exists 500 meter away from your home, they want to see "green light blinking" on back of your PC on Ethernet card so either you have to stay home for their technician or have someone stay home to do that. No amount of convincing sify that connectivity from your PC is fine will work. Eventually they replace/restart some switch some distance away and service starts.
In MTNL Tri Band's case, their tech support is very simple, they will ask you "do you get dial tone when you pickup phone?" if yes then they know there is no physical cable problem, but some server issue at their end and is resolved. Bad part of MTNL is that when server goes down on Saturday, till Monday it is down as on weekends they don't work. Good part is in last 4-5 years MTNL's cabling has been very good and even in monsoon rarely your phone goes dead.
MTNL Tri-Band is pure unfiltered Ethernet internet. So you can plug in any devices other then PC like VoIP boxes like Vonage to make and receive VoIP calls. Many small business owners in Mumbai are already using Vonage service with MTNL tri-band to serve their American clients better. Very soon Vonage is introducing Wi-Fi mobile phone which will fit in your shirt pocket and anytime you are in range of Wi-Fi router you will beable to make and receive calls. This is possible only with MTNL Tri-band and not with Sify or other providers.
MTNL Tri-Band costs Rs.399 (plus Rs.80 for modem rental) plus service tax every month you get 400MB of data transfer which should be sufficient for surfing. Additional MB is Rs.1.2 each.
Down payment on Sify and would be Rs.3000 which goes in local operator's pocket. For MTNL Tri-Band it is Rs.1300 which brings you ADSL modem and someone comes to setup connection at your end. There is no wiring to be done till your home if you already have MTNLs phone line at home.
MTNL Tri-Band can be used with one PC or one device directly plugged into their ADSL router or you can connect ADSL router to Ethernet / Wi-Fi switch and share it with multiple PC. You can’t do same with Sify Broadband connection. You need to take separate Sify account for every PC you may have.
June 21, 2005
By Vipul Shah
Q: We have been out of Mumbai since sometime... and hence do not have info about trends and service providers etc...
We are looking for broadband service provider in chembur
area. We only need to use the net for web-surfing + voice chat + email. Please give me as much or as little info that you might have.
A: Give a shot to MTNL Tri Band ADSL services. In most part of Mumbai they have enabled it and if you fill up form tomorrow it would start service at your home within 2-3 days Someone from MTNL will come with ADSL modem which will plug into your PC's Ethernet port. You can expect 256kbps speed, which is good enough for most applications including VoIP. MTNL would also offer you ADSL modem which will plug into USB port but don’t take this option as unlike Ethernet devices, USB devices are heavily driver dependent and next time you have to change/upgrade operating system of your PC if they don’t have driver for your device your PC won’t be able to use it.
Unlike Sify, Hathway, Seven Star etc you don't have to worry about cable fault or switches going bad between your home and local operator. This happens to chembur Sify connections often, sometimes 2-3 times a week. And every time you register a complaint, even if fault exists 500 meter away from your home, they want to see "green light blinking" on back of your PC on Ethernet card so either you have to stay home for their technician or have someone stay home to do that. No amount of convincing sify that connectivity from your PC is fine will work. Eventually they replace/restart some switch some distance away and service starts.
In MTNL Tri Band's case, their tech support is very simple, they will ask you "do you get dial tone when you pickup phone?" if yes then they know there is no physical cable problem, but some server issue at their end and is resolved. Bad part of MTNL is that when server goes down on Saturday, till Monday it is down as on weekends they don't work. Good part is in last 4-5 years MTNL's cabling has been very good and even in monsoon rarely your phone goes dead.
MTNL Tri-Band is pure unfiltered Ethernet internet. So you can plug in any devices other then PC like VoIP boxes like Vonage to make and receive VoIP calls. Many small business owners in Mumbai are already using Vonage service with MTNL tri-band to serve their American clients better. Very soon Vonage is introducing Wi-Fi mobile phone which will fit in your shirt pocket and anytime you are in range of Wi-Fi router you will beable to make and receive calls. This is possible only with MTNL Tri-band and not with Sify or other providers.
MTNL Tri-Band costs Rs.399 (plus Rs.80 for modem rental) plus service tax every month you get 400MB of data transfer which should be sufficient for surfing. Additional MB is Rs.1.2 each.
Down payment on Sify and would be Rs.3000 which goes in local operator's pocket. For MTNL Tri-Band it is Rs.1300 which brings you ADSL modem and someone comes to setup connection at your end. There is no wiring to be done till your home if you already have MTNLs phone line at home.
MTNL Tri-Band can be used with one PC or one device directly plugged into their ADSL router or you can connect ADSL router to Ethernet / Wi-Fi switch and share it with multiple PC. You can’t do same with Sify Broadband connection. You need to take separate Sify account for every PC you may have.
Finding VOIP Vendors In Boston
Since the perfection of electronic telegraph in the mid-19th Century, it seems that communications have undergone a revolution every generation, making it easier, cheaper and faster to transmit information. Today in Boston, "VoIP" - meaning "Voice over Internet Protocol" - represents one of the latest ways to communicate.
As it is a relatively new technology, one will notice the occasional "bug" or glitch when using voice over IP. Mass. users are nonetheless finding it a more convenient and far less expensive way to use the telephone. And this is really what VoIP is. It also goes by several other names, such as IP telephony, Internet telephony, voice over broadband, broadband telephony, and broadband phone (despite the fact that telephone voice communication is actually done through a narrowband system).
The most obvious benefit that Boston VoIP subscribers experience is cost savings, particularly when it comes to long-distance. Unlike traditional telephone service providers using analogue lines that charge by the minute, users pay a monthly flat fee for voice over IP. Mass. users can call anywhere in the country - and depending on their level of service, the world - and talk for any length of time, all for one low price. This monthly fee varies among the various VoIP vendors in Boston, but can range anywhere from $17 to $35 per month.
If you operate a business in Boston, VoIP is practically a necessity for reducing your operation costs - particularly if you do business nationally and internationally. VoiP installers in Boston are plentiful, but you'll want to check out their experience and reliability before committing to a long-term service contract. The fact is that the quality of sound can vary - sometimes dramatically - between one service and another, so it's good to compare the many VoIP vendors in Boston.
If you have a good IT system in place and already have an Internet Service Provider, it is possible that VoIP installers in Boston will not even have to come to your place of business in order to establish your services, although typically you'll need one or two extra pieces of equipment. This is an issue on which your local Boston VoIP service provider can advise you. VoIP installers in Boston can also work with your company's IT department and make certain they understand the system and how to troubleshoot and repair if necessary.
As it is a relatively new technology, one will notice the occasional "bug" or glitch when using voice over IP. Mass. users are nonetheless finding it a more convenient and far less expensive way to use the telephone. And this is really what VoIP is. It also goes by several other names, such as IP telephony, Internet telephony, voice over broadband, broadband telephony, and broadband phone (despite the fact that telephone voice communication is actually done through a narrowband system).
The most obvious benefit that Boston VoIP subscribers experience is cost savings, particularly when it comes to long-distance. Unlike traditional telephone service providers using analogue lines that charge by the minute, users pay a monthly flat fee for voice over IP. Mass. users can call anywhere in the country - and depending on their level of service, the world - and talk for any length of time, all for one low price. This monthly fee varies among the various VoIP vendors in Boston, but can range anywhere from $17 to $35 per month.
If you operate a business in Boston, VoIP is practically a necessity for reducing your operation costs - particularly if you do business nationally and internationally. VoiP installers in Boston are plentiful, but you'll want to check out their experience and reliability before committing to a long-term service contract. The fact is that the quality of sound can vary - sometimes dramatically - between one service and another, so it's good to compare the many VoIP vendors in Boston.
If you have a good IT system in place and already have an Internet Service Provider, it is possible that VoIP installers in Boston will not even have to come to your place of business in order to establish your services, although typically you'll need one or two extra pieces of equipment. This is an issue on which your local Boston VoIP service provider can advise you. VoIP installers in Boston can also work with your company's IT department and make certain they understand the system and how to troubleshoot and repair if necessary.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
VoIP Ratings - What They Can Tell You
You can learn a lot just by looking at VoIP ratings. The quality of provider's service is reflected in a rating. Ratings are typically given from one to five with a full five being the highest. The best VoIP providers would naturally be those that fall within the 3.5-5 ratings.
VoIP ratings however should rarely ever stand alone. If you are a careful subscriber, you would normally base your decision on more than just the numerical rating. VoIP rating sites should contain a couple of other pieces of information. Here are some things that you should look for in a VoIP rating site:
- Ratings should come with reviews. Some people may not be comfortable about reading lots of text. Sometimes, it's tempting to just take a rating for what is. Then again, you should want to know why particular providers have such a rating. You can get the reasons from the review text.
- Raters and reviewers should also be publicized by these rating sites. This is important because you do not want to read reviews and ratings from ghost writers. Some sites could publish bogus reviews with the hidden intent of actually getting customers for a particular provider. Legitimate raters and reviewers may be real technology experts or actual VoIP users.
- There should be some basis for the VoIP ratings. This is especially so if the ratings are provided by technology experts. How exactly do they rate providers? Are the providers actually tested or used? Do raters only base ratings based on what they read too about these providers. First hand information should always be preferred when referring to ratings and reviews.
- An honest reviews should contain disadvantages of a particular provider. You would want a fair and balanced view about providers. One that only praises a provider is of no practical use to you. You would want to know the pitfalls of signing up with a particular provider and what you should watch out for.
- Good rating sites are those that contain a list of provider services. Of course, you can always go to the provider's web page to check what they have to offer. It would be very convenient for you however if you happened upon a review site that has all the necessary details. This will make side by side provider comparison much easier for you.
- The price list is another thing you should look for in a ratings site. It is true that the price should never be your sole basis for deciding. The price still really matters though. It would help if expert raters and reviewers considered the price alongside the features in determining whether a provider can give a good deal.
Unbiased and Independent Ratings - You may not always be able to come across independent VoIP ratings. The ones that really are independent however can really offer you great help when deciding on a VoIP provider. Take some time to research on good independent raters before you sign up with a provider.
VoIP Ratings - What They Can Tell You
By Torrie Cantor
VoIP ratings however should rarely ever stand alone. If you are a careful subscriber, you would normally base your decision on more than just the numerical rating. VoIP rating sites should contain a couple of other pieces of information. Here are some things that you should look for in a VoIP rating site:
- Ratings should come with reviews. Some people may not be comfortable about reading lots of text. Sometimes, it's tempting to just take a rating for what is. Then again, you should want to know why particular providers have such a rating. You can get the reasons from the review text.
- Raters and reviewers should also be publicized by these rating sites. This is important because you do not want to read reviews and ratings from ghost writers. Some sites could publish bogus reviews with the hidden intent of actually getting customers for a particular provider. Legitimate raters and reviewers may be real technology experts or actual VoIP users.
- There should be some basis for the VoIP ratings. This is especially so if the ratings are provided by technology experts. How exactly do they rate providers? Are the providers actually tested or used? Do raters only base ratings based on what they read too about these providers. First hand information should always be preferred when referring to ratings and reviews.
- An honest reviews should contain disadvantages of a particular provider. You would want a fair and balanced view about providers. One that only praises a provider is of no practical use to you. You would want to know the pitfalls of signing up with a particular provider and what you should watch out for.
- Good rating sites are those that contain a list of provider services. Of course, you can always go to the provider's web page to check what they have to offer. It would be very convenient for you however if you happened upon a review site that has all the necessary details. This will make side by side provider comparison much easier for you.
- The price list is another thing you should look for in a ratings site. It is true that the price should never be your sole basis for deciding. The price still really matters though. It would help if expert raters and reviewers considered the price alongside the features in determining whether a provider can give a good deal.
Unbiased and Independent Ratings - You may not always be able to come across independent VoIP ratings. The ones that really are independent however can really offer you great help when deciding on a VoIP provider. Take some time to research on good independent raters before you sign up with a provider.
VoIP Ratings - What They Can Tell You
By Torrie Cantor
Monday, June 16, 2008
Voxeo Launches Turnkey VOIP Platform Including IVR, Conferencing, and More
SAN FRANCISCO -- New Offering Delivers IVR, Call Control, Conferencing, Call Recording, Speech Recognition, Speech Synthesis, and a SIP VOIP Gateway in a Single Rack-Mount Server
Voxeo Corporation announced its new line of standards-based turnkey communication servers today at SpeechTEK West. The new VoiceCenter Fusion Server product consolidates seven previously separate platforms into a single, integrated communications solution.
Voxeo's VoiceCenter Fusion Servers are the first turnkey telephony platforms to offer VoiceXML IVR, CCXML call control, speech recognition, speech synthesis, call conferencing, call recording and a PSTN-to-SIP Voice over IP (VOIP) gateway in one integrated, rack-mount server. All of the Fusion Server's capabilities are built around the SIP VOIP standard, enabling rapid integration with both existing and new PSTN, PBX, and VOIP deployments.
"VoiceCenter Fusion Servers offer flexible, universal telephony ports with best-of-breed technology from Voxeo, Nuance, ScanSoft, Paraxip, and Intel/Dialogic," said Zack Angelo, Director of Software Development at Versabar. "Voxeo's turnkey servers uniquely enable us to deploy a single, low-cost platform for any telephony application requirement."
The VoiceCenter Fusion Server's capabilities include:
VoiceXML IVR - enables enterprises to create and deploy telephony applications that integrate with their existing web infrastructure to automate recurring sales, service, collections, inquiry and support calls to and from their customers.
Call Control XML (CCXML) - delivers capabilities to intelligently screen, transfer, and initiate traditional and SIP telephony calls, including integration with call center platforms via a built-in Computer Telephony Integration (CTI) interface.
Speech Recognition and Synthesis - allows callers to use comfortable, spoken commands to control the Fusion platform, and allows the Fusion platform to respond with human-like spoken audio output.
Call conferencing - lets up to 48 callers meet in a crystal-clear telephone conference. Plus, the CCXML-based conferencing engine allows enterprises to create custom conferencing applications that integrate with existing directory servers or applications.
Call recording - provides call logging / recording capabilities on all or a portion of all calls to address call center audit, third party financial verification, corporate security, FCC telesales, and other call recording requirements.
PSTN-to-SIP VOIP Gateway - connects the Fusion Server's SIP-based features - and external SIP-based telephones or platforms - to any PBX, call center, local phone company, or long distance carrier via built-in analog or digital T1/E1/PRI phone jacks.
Analysts and industry experts at Forrester Research predict that VOIP-based IVR - used at the core of Voxeo's Fusion Server - will be one of "only a few technology areas (that) will generate solid enterprise demand" in 2005.
"This year VOIP is crossing the 'early-adopter chasm' in the United States," said Jeff Pulver, industry expert and CEO of Pulver.com. "VOIP and standards-based application platforms are being deployed by enterprises in 2005, and should see continued growth in 2006 and beyond."
The new product includes four models with varying telephone port types and densities:
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 4 - 4 analog ports starting at $4,495
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 12 - 12 analog ports starting at $9,995
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 24 - 24 digital T1/PRI ports starting at $16,995
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 48 - 48 digital T1/PRI ports starting at $26,995
The VoiceCenter Fusion solution has already won customers in a number of fields, including one of the nation's largest HMO's and the United States Department of Defense. Voxeo's VoiceCenter Fusion Servers complement Voxeo's existing VoiceCenter IVR Software and VoiceCenter IVR hosting solutions, and are available immediately.
About Voxeo
Voxeo Corporation is the leading provider of standards based, hosted and customer premise telephony solutions. These solutions extend versatile IP and XML technologies to make it easy to create, deploy, and maintain the widest variety of telephony applications. Voxeo customers, VARs, resellers, and channel partners leverage these solutions to enhance customer care, reduce costs, and generate new sources of revenue. For more information, visit www.voxeo.com, email steve.sax@voxeo.com, or call +1 (407) 418-1800.
Voxeo Corporation announced its new line of standards-based turnkey communication servers today at SpeechTEK West. The new VoiceCenter Fusion Server product consolidates seven previously separate platforms into a single, integrated communications solution.
Voxeo's VoiceCenter Fusion Servers are the first turnkey telephony platforms to offer VoiceXML IVR, CCXML call control, speech recognition, speech synthesis, call conferencing, call recording and a PSTN-to-SIP Voice over IP (VOIP) gateway in one integrated, rack-mount server. All of the Fusion Server's capabilities are built around the SIP VOIP standard, enabling rapid integration with both existing and new PSTN, PBX, and VOIP deployments.
"VoiceCenter Fusion Servers offer flexible, universal telephony ports with best-of-breed technology from Voxeo, Nuance, ScanSoft, Paraxip, and Intel/Dialogic," said Zack Angelo, Director of Software Development at Versabar. "Voxeo's turnkey servers uniquely enable us to deploy a single, low-cost platform for any telephony application requirement."
The VoiceCenter Fusion Server's capabilities include:
VoiceXML IVR - enables enterprises to create and deploy telephony applications that integrate with their existing web infrastructure to automate recurring sales, service, collections, inquiry and support calls to and from their customers.
Call Control XML (CCXML) - delivers capabilities to intelligently screen, transfer, and initiate traditional and SIP telephony calls, including integration with call center platforms via a built-in Computer Telephony Integration (CTI) interface.
Speech Recognition and Synthesis - allows callers to use comfortable, spoken commands to control the Fusion platform, and allows the Fusion platform to respond with human-like spoken audio output.
Call conferencing - lets up to 48 callers meet in a crystal-clear telephone conference. Plus, the CCXML-based conferencing engine allows enterprises to create custom conferencing applications that integrate with existing directory servers or applications.
Call recording - provides call logging / recording capabilities on all or a portion of all calls to address call center audit, third party financial verification, corporate security, FCC telesales, and other call recording requirements.
PSTN-to-SIP VOIP Gateway - connects the Fusion Server's SIP-based features - and external SIP-based telephones or platforms - to any PBX, call center, local phone company, or long distance carrier via built-in analog or digital T1/E1/PRI phone jacks.
Analysts and industry experts at Forrester Research predict that VOIP-based IVR - used at the core of Voxeo's Fusion Server - will be one of "only a few technology areas (that) will generate solid enterprise demand" in 2005.
"This year VOIP is crossing the 'early-adopter chasm' in the United States," said Jeff Pulver, industry expert and CEO of Pulver.com. "VOIP and standards-based application platforms are being deployed by enterprises in 2005, and should see continued growth in 2006 and beyond."
The new product includes four models with varying telephone port types and densities:
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 4 - 4 analog ports starting at $4,495
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 12 - 12 analog ports starting at $9,995
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 24 - 24 digital T1/PRI ports starting at $16,995
--VoiceCenter IVR Fusion Server 48 - 48 digital T1/PRI ports starting at $26,995
The VoiceCenter Fusion solution has already won customers in a number of fields, including one of the nation's largest HMO's and the United States Department of Defense. Voxeo's VoiceCenter Fusion Servers complement Voxeo's existing VoiceCenter IVR Software and VoiceCenter IVR hosting solutions, and are available immediately.
About Voxeo
Voxeo Corporation is the leading provider of standards based, hosted and customer premise telephony solutions. These solutions extend versatile IP and XML technologies to make it easy to create, deploy, and maintain the widest variety of telephony applications. Voxeo customers, VARs, resellers, and channel partners leverage these solutions to enhance customer care, reduce costs, and generate new sources of revenue. For more information, visit www.voxeo.com, email steve.sax@voxeo.com, or call +1 (407) 418-1800.
Using VoIP Software Building Blocks A Look At The Choices
VoIP is now beginning to reach the mainstream market, as reflected in a recent IDC study projecting that the number of U.S. subscribers to residential VoIP services will grow from three million in 2005 to 27 million by the end of 2009. To meet this demand, an increasing number of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are now developing VoIP-enabled products. In many cases, the expertise of these OEMs is in the areas of data communications, user interface development, or manufacturing — not VoIP. They need to easily and rapidly VoIP-enable their products without having to build their own VoIP capabilities from the ground up.
OEMs have long known about the benefits of merchant silicon. By utilizing application-specific standard products (ASSPs) produced by silicon vendors, OEMs can realize significant cost savings and time-to-market advantages over the alternative of developing equivalent technologies in-house. Today, no OEM would think of beginning the development of a product by kicking off a series of custom silicon development programs to create processors, memory controllers, Ethernet MACs, or UART controllers that are readily available via merchant silicon vendors. However, these same OEMs will regularly take on massive software development efforts to create from scratch the software that drives this silicon.
Fortunately, software exists from a variety of sources that can be leveraged by the OEM in the same way that merchant silicon is leveraged. This “merchant software” provides the same type of benefits that merchant silicon does in terms of reduced development effort, expense and risk. Merchant software is available in the form of software components or as integrated software platforms.
The Software Component Approach
Software components represent a class of merchant software that is readily available to OEMs, and provides a tremendous amount of design flexibility. This class of software is characterized by individual components or building blocks that perform specific functions. Examples of software components would be a G.729AB codec, or an Ethernet driver.
One advantage of the use of software components is that the OEM can leverage the functionality provided by the software without having to develop in-house expertise in the specific functions or invest developer time on the effort to implement and validate the components. Other advantages include the ability to acquire and deploy only the specific set of functionalities that are needed for the system, as well as the ability to integrate these components into an already-existing architecture.
However, the software component approach does have a disadvantage in that there is a given level of effort required to integrate the individual components into the overall product. This integration challenge may be further complicated if the components are sourced from a variety of vendors, each with its own interface methodologies. As additional sources of components are used, the effort required to manage various vendors increases, and there is a greater risk of encountering problems related to the interaction across components from different sources.
Software Platforms
Software platform solutions are another form of merchant software available to OEMs. Software platforms are solutions that incorporate collections of related functionalities, typically provided within an integrated software framework. A software platform solution may provide a full suite of VoIP media processing (multiple audio codecs, tone generation/detection algorithms, echo cancellers, etc.), together with such call control protocols as SIP or H.323 and a framework that integrates these components and presents the user application with a high-level API.
Software platform solutions share with software components the advantage of the OEM not having to learn and develop the base functionality. This allows OEMs to redirect efforts toward the development of features that further differentiate their products from the competition. A significant additional benefit is that the integration of the various functional components has already been performed and validated by the supplier of the software platform. In many development efforts, the integration of individual functional components represents the most significant portion of both development time and risk, so a software platform in which the functional components have been pre-integrated can provide a significant advantage in minimizing these challenges.
The reduced number of vendors that are a part of the solution may also help to minimize the effort in developing and managing the product. A potential drawback of a software platform solution for some OEMs is that a given platform may incorporate more functionality than is required for a specific application. This can be minimized by selecting a solution that is presented as a modular framework, allowing the unneeded components to be scaled out.
Sources Of Merchant Software
OEMs can access merchant software either directly from an individual merchant silicon vendor, from board-level vendors or through third-party software companies. The source of the merchant software adds several other decision factors that must be considered.
Software provided by a merchant silicon vendor has the benefit of being pre-integrated with the specific silicon device being used. This can save integration time and effort with respect to not having to learn the low-level details of the silicon interfaces. Additional benefits from this approach are that the software may (but not necessarily) take full advantage of the silicon architecture, providing possible performance gains. However, it is this same point that can become a disadvantage to the OEM, as the software is almost always limited to use on the specific silicon device. As a result, the provided software is not portable to designs that use silicon from another vendor. Additionally, many merchant silicon vendors will provide software as an enabler of the sale. Software development is not a key focus of the vendor, and as a result timely response to support issues or feature enhancements related to the software may not exist. The completeness and field-robustness of the software provided also may vary greatly across the software offerings from various silicon vendors, ranging from basic lab-grade bring-up or diagnostics code to production-ready solutions.
Board-level solutions — combinations of specific hardware and software — represent another delivery mechanism for merchant software. Benefits of this approach include the reduced development effort both in terms of hardware and software development, as well as integration. The OEM is able to focus on applications development, utilizing the VoIP sub-system provided by the vendor. Because this model takes more of a sub-system approach, it is not appropriate for many designs because the solution is delivered in a specific, defined form-factor. The specific form-factor (PMC module, CompactPCI card, etc.) may not be able to be integrated into the OEM’s target platform, or may require special mechanical or electrical design to accommodate this pre-defined subsystem. The pre-defined nature of a board-level solution may also limit the extent to which new functionality can be deployed at a later time.
Dedicated merchant software vendors represent the final source of merchant software technology. Companies that offer merchant software for both portable and silicon-specific implementations are able to provide an additional level of flexibility to OEMs. Merchant software vendors typically support a number of silicon devices with the same base software components or software platforms. This provides the OEM with the flexibility to make a single investment in learning the software interfaces, and to leverage this investment across a variety of merchant silicon designs. Because the software provider’s focus is on the development and licensing of software, the OEM can be confident that the supplier is focused on the support and continued development of the software technology.
Depending on the specific merchant silicon vendor, and the form in which the software is provided, the advantages provided by this approach can range from meaningful to very significant, especially if the OEM is developing a family of products that would use a number of merchant silicon devices from multiple vendors.
In addition, the software available from some vendors may feature an open architecture that allows developers to easily integrate custom or third-party algorithms, protocols, and control applications into the system. OEMs are thus still able to preserve their investment in their own intellectual property and differentiate themselves in the highly competitive VoIP equipment market. This approach combines all the time-to-market benefits of a turnkey solution with the flexibility of software components.
Time to market for the development of VoIP products has been shortened through the use of merchant silicon. Additional gains can be achieved through the use of merchant software. This merchant software is delivered in several ways, such as software components and software platforms, and can be obtained by an OEM in various manners, from direct distribution with the merchant silicon, as part of a “turn-key” system offering, or from third-party software vendors. Each approach features characteristics that must be considered in relation to the specific requirements of a given product’s development. Utilizing merchant software that provides the greatest flexibility in terms of portability and integration for a particular application, with regard to both the software functional components and the silicon, can reward OEMs with a strategic advantage that enables decreased time-to-market, lower overall product risk and lowered product development costs. IT
Using VoIP Software Building Blocks A Look At The Choices
by Michael Ward
OEMs have long known about the benefits of merchant silicon. By utilizing application-specific standard products (ASSPs) produced by silicon vendors, OEMs can realize significant cost savings and time-to-market advantages over the alternative of developing equivalent technologies in-house. Today, no OEM would think of beginning the development of a product by kicking off a series of custom silicon development programs to create processors, memory controllers, Ethernet MACs, or UART controllers that are readily available via merchant silicon vendors. However, these same OEMs will regularly take on massive software development efforts to create from scratch the software that drives this silicon.
Fortunately, software exists from a variety of sources that can be leveraged by the OEM in the same way that merchant silicon is leveraged. This “merchant software” provides the same type of benefits that merchant silicon does in terms of reduced development effort, expense and risk. Merchant software is available in the form of software components or as integrated software platforms.
The Software Component Approach
Software components represent a class of merchant software that is readily available to OEMs, and provides a tremendous amount of design flexibility. This class of software is characterized by individual components or building blocks that perform specific functions. Examples of software components would be a G.729AB codec, or an Ethernet driver.
One advantage of the use of software components is that the OEM can leverage the functionality provided by the software without having to develop in-house expertise in the specific functions or invest developer time on the effort to implement and validate the components. Other advantages include the ability to acquire and deploy only the specific set of functionalities that are needed for the system, as well as the ability to integrate these components into an already-existing architecture.
However, the software component approach does have a disadvantage in that there is a given level of effort required to integrate the individual components into the overall product. This integration challenge may be further complicated if the components are sourced from a variety of vendors, each with its own interface methodologies. As additional sources of components are used, the effort required to manage various vendors increases, and there is a greater risk of encountering problems related to the interaction across components from different sources.
Software Platforms
Software platform solutions are another form of merchant software available to OEMs. Software platforms are solutions that incorporate collections of related functionalities, typically provided within an integrated software framework. A software platform solution may provide a full suite of VoIP media processing (multiple audio codecs, tone generation/detection algorithms, echo cancellers, etc.), together with such call control protocols as SIP or H.323 and a framework that integrates these components and presents the user application with a high-level API.
Software platform solutions share with software components the advantage of the OEM not having to learn and develop the base functionality. This allows OEMs to redirect efforts toward the development of features that further differentiate their products from the competition. A significant additional benefit is that the integration of the various functional components has already been performed and validated by the supplier of the software platform. In many development efforts, the integration of individual functional components represents the most significant portion of both development time and risk, so a software platform in which the functional components have been pre-integrated can provide a significant advantage in minimizing these challenges.
The reduced number of vendors that are a part of the solution may also help to minimize the effort in developing and managing the product. A potential drawback of a software platform solution for some OEMs is that a given platform may incorporate more functionality than is required for a specific application. This can be minimized by selecting a solution that is presented as a modular framework, allowing the unneeded components to be scaled out.
Sources Of Merchant Software
OEMs can access merchant software either directly from an individual merchant silicon vendor, from board-level vendors or through third-party software companies. The source of the merchant software adds several other decision factors that must be considered.
Software provided by a merchant silicon vendor has the benefit of being pre-integrated with the specific silicon device being used. This can save integration time and effort with respect to not having to learn the low-level details of the silicon interfaces. Additional benefits from this approach are that the software may (but not necessarily) take full advantage of the silicon architecture, providing possible performance gains. However, it is this same point that can become a disadvantage to the OEM, as the software is almost always limited to use on the specific silicon device. As a result, the provided software is not portable to designs that use silicon from another vendor. Additionally, many merchant silicon vendors will provide software as an enabler of the sale. Software development is not a key focus of the vendor, and as a result timely response to support issues or feature enhancements related to the software may not exist. The completeness and field-robustness of the software provided also may vary greatly across the software offerings from various silicon vendors, ranging from basic lab-grade bring-up or diagnostics code to production-ready solutions.
Board-level solutions — combinations of specific hardware and software — represent another delivery mechanism for merchant software. Benefits of this approach include the reduced development effort both in terms of hardware and software development, as well as integration. The OEM is able to focus on applications development, utilizing the VoIP sub-system provided by the vendor. Because this model takes more of a sub-system approach, it is not appropriate for many designs because the solution is delivered in a specific, defined form-factor. The specific form-factor (PMC module, CompactPCI card, etc.) may not be able to be integrated into the OEM’s target platform, or may require special mechanical or electrical design to accommodate this pre-defined subsystem. The pre-defined nature of a board-level solution may also limit the extent to which new functionality can be deployed at a later time.
Dedicated merchant software vendors represent the final source of merchant software technology. Companies that offer merchant software for both portable and silicon-specific implementations are able to provide an additional level of flexibility to OEMs. Merchant software vendors typically support a number of silicon devices with the same base software components or software platforms. This provides the OEM with the flexibility to make a single investment in learning the software interfaces, and to leverage this investment across a variety of merchant silicon designs. Because the software provider’s focus is on the development and licensing of software, the OEM can be confident that the supplier is focused on the support and continued development of the software technology.
Depending on the specific merchant silicon vendor, and the form in which the software is provided, the advantages provided by this approach can range from meaningful to very significant, especially if the OEM is developing a family of products that would use a number of merchant silicon devices from multiple vendors.
In addition, the software available from some vendors may feature an open architecture that allows developers to easily integrate custom or third-party algorithms, protocols, and control applications into the system. OEMs are thus still able to preserve their investment in their own intellectual property and differentiate themselves in the highly competitive VoIP equipment market. This approach combines all the time-to-market benefits of a turnkey solution with the flexibility of software components.
Time to market for the development of VoIP products has been shortened through the use of merchant silicon. Additional gains can be achieved through the use of merchant software. This merchant software is delivered in several ways, such as software components and software platforms, and can be obtained by an OEM in various manners, from direct distribution with the merchant silicon, as part of a “turn-key” system offering, or from third-party software vendors. Each approach features characteristics that must be considered in relation to the specific requirements of a given product’s development. Utilizing merchant software that provides the greatest flexibility in terms of portability and integration for a particular application, with regard to both the software functional components and the silicon, can reward OEMs with a strategic advantage that enables decreased time-to-market, lower overall product risk and lowered product development costs. IT
Using VoIP Software Building Blocks A Look At The Choices
by Michael Ward
Turnkey VoIP Solutions,VoIP Solutions Carrier Switching Appication
VoIP Solutions Carrier Switching Appication
Hosted VoIP Telco Solution
VoIP Solutions Inc can provide a hosted solution to meet the specific needs of existing Telco's, cable operators or start ups. Every service provider has different ideas, products, billing methods, web integration etc. VoIP Solutions has a flexible turn key solution that can meet these needs.
The central billing, database, and SIP proxy system (SoftSwitch) resides in a central location.
This architecture centrally authenticates each call, providing real time call control and tear down for pre paid accounts.
The network design provides for a high level of redundancy and is fully scalable permitting additional capacity to be added to the existing cities at any time and new cites / interconnection points to other carriers be added.
The solution will comprise the following components:
Billing - Administration
VoIP Billing 100 has been customized to meet the needs of VoIP service providers and tightly integrates with the SIP proxy and other applications.
The billing feature supports wholesale, agent, prepaid and post paid accounts. Web integration provides customer self help account access and Customer Service Representative information.
Media Gateways
The media gateways will support up to 4 X E1 or T1 PRI spans. As these gateways have components of the primary SoftSwitch, the software applications will add intelligence to overcome faults in other parts of a distributed network.
The primary purpose if to convert the E1 interconnect circuits to the PTT / carrier to the E1 PRI format used by the media gateways.
Additional software layers and features developed by VoIP Solutions are added for each application. This is proven software used in many large scale applications. The additional layers of software provide the interface to the billing server, other interfaces and administrators. Separate gateways are supplied for Voice Mail and Unified Messaging applications.
Optional Modules
This product has a comprehensive suite of optional modules and features that facilitate a fully integrated and automated service.
Additional application modules provide integration between telephone number management, CPE auto provisioning, logistics, credit card processing, customer service and Unified Messaging applications.
Available features can be crafted to provide a custom solution for each carrier customer using the applicable features. Customer implementations include full training and documentation of all components.
Provisioning Server
The provisioning server permits the remote programming of MTA's. When an MTA is sold to a customer or installed the only information required is the MAC address or electronic serial number. This is associated in the provisioning server with the customer account, telephone number(s) allocated and the ID, user name, and password to identify this customer device on the network.
When the device is first connected, the user data is downloaded and it is redirected to the network ready to make and receive calls. Subsequent firmware updates and programming changes are also automated.
Telephone Number Allocation
This application provides a database to store the inventory of all available telephone numbers. It provides the pool of numbers to be allocated when a web application, store or customer service rep opens a new account or needs to change a number. The selected area codes / numbers or automatically allocated numbers are then linked to the customer account and made available for billing account identification, customer equipment and network provisioning. This application is fully integrates with the web application.
Web Interface
The web interface provides an automated sign up process for customers to choose a plan, equipment, telephone number, make payment and activate the account. A service provider can apply their own skin and customize the site. Existing customers can log in and change account information, view charges and purchase new services. A more comprehensive administration section permits Customer Service Representative to access account information.
SMTP Email Gateway
The email gateway permits the system to:
Confirm account establishment information and passwords to a customer
Send low balance reminders
Receipt payments
Send statements
Promote new products and promotions
Inventory and Logistics
This module maintains a record of all stocked products including their serial numbers and MAC addresses. It provides tracking information when products are shipped and matches each device to the customer account for the provisioning server and Customer Service.
Customer Premise Equipment
Any SIP compliant gateway or software phone can be used to access the SIP Proxy. Some feature availability and functionality will depend on the device being used and its support of the features. The Softswitch supports additional features unique to the MTA distributed by VoIP Solutions
Hosted VoIP Telco Solution
VoIP Solutions Inc can provide a hosted solution to meet the specific needs of existing Telco's, cable operators or start ups. Every service provider has different ideas, products, billing methods, web integration etc. VoIP Solutions has a flexible turn key solution that can meet these needs.
The central billing, database, and SIP proxy system (SoftSwitch) resides in a central location.
This architecture centrally authenticates each call, providing real time call control and tear down for pre paid accounts.
The network design provides for a high level of redundancy and is fully scalable permitting additional capacity to be added to the existing cities at any time and new cites / interconnection points to other carriers be added.
The solution will comprise the following components:
Billing - Administration
VoIP Billing 100 has been customized to meet the needs of VoIP service providers and tightly integrates with the SIP proxy and other applications.
The billing feature supports wholesale, agent, prepaid and post paid accounts. Web integration provides customer self help account access and Customer Service Representative information.
Media Gateways
The media gateways will support up to 4 X E1 or T1 PRI spans. As these gateways have components of the primary SoftSwitch, the software applications will add intelligence to overcome faults in other parts of a distributed network.
The primary purpose if to convert the E1 interconnect circuits to the PTT / carrier to the E1 PRI format used by the media gateways.
Additional software layers and features developed by VoIP Solutions are added for each application. This is proven software used in many large scale applications. The additional layers of software provide the interface to the billing server, other interfaces and administrators. Separate gateways are supplied for Voice Mail and Unified Messaging applications.
Optional Modules
This product has a comprehensive suite of optional modules and features that facilitate a fully integrated and automated service.
Additional application modules provide integration between telephone number management, CPE auto provisioning, logistics, credit card processing, customer service and Unified Messaging applications.
Available features can be crafted to provide a custom solution for each carrier customer using the applicable features. Customer implementations include full training and documentation of all components.
Provisioning Server
The provisioning server permits the remote programming of MTA's. When an MTA is sold to a customer or installed the only information required is the MAC address or electronic serial number. This is associated in the provisioning server with the customer account, telephone number(s) allocated and the ID, user name, and password to identify this customer device on the network.
When the device is first connected, the user data is downloaded and it is redirected to the network ready to make and receive calls. Subsequent firmware updates and programming changes are also automated.
Telephone Number Allocation
This application provides a database to store the inventory of all available telephone numbers. It provides the pool of numbers to be allocated when a web application, store or customer service rep opens a new account or needs to change a number. The selected area codes / numbers or automatically allocated numbers are then linked to the customer account and made available for billing account identification, customer equipment and network provisioning. This application is fully integrates with the web application.
Web Interface
The web interface provides an automated sign up process for customers to choose a plan, equipment, telephone number, make payment and activate the account. A service provider can apply their own skin and customize the site. Existing customers can log in and change account information, view charges and purchase new services. A more comprehensive administration section permits Customer Service Representative to access account information.
SMTP Email Gateway
The email gateway permits the system to:
Confirm account establishment information and passwords to a customer
Send low balance reminders
Receipt payments
Send statements
Promote new products and promotions
Inventory and Logistics
This module maintains a record of all stocked products including their serial numbers and MAC addresses. It provides tracking information when products are shipped and matches each device to the customer account for the provisioning server and Customer Service.
Customer Premise Equipment
Any SIP compliant gateway or software phone can be used to access the SIP Proxy. Some feature availability and functionality will depend on the device being used and its support of the features. The Softswitch supports additional features unique to the MTA distributed by VoIP Solutions
FAQs about Primus VoIP
FAQs on Primus VoIP company
What is VoIP?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and allows people to make and receive telephone calls over a high speed internet connection rather than the traditional phone networks. Also known as IP telephony, or broadband voice – this innovative new service will bring down the price of your calls, while adding a bundle of new features designed to enhance your telecommunications experience.
How does it work?
Primus VoIP works by transforming voice into information (data packets) and then sending it over the internet like any other file or email.
With Primus, either an IP or analogue phone are connected to an adapter which is attached to your router or modem, from there you will be able to liberally make calls.
Is it right for my company?
Quite simply, yes. Regardless of its size, any company can benefit from Primus VoIP. While large companies will benefit from the high cost savings, the multitude of features can provide an SME with the tools of a corporation.
How will signing up for Primus VoIP save money?
In a many ways. First, on net calls are free of charge – this means calls between anyone on the Primus VoIP network are free, such as inter-office communication, or exchange with other Primus subscribers.
Second, your Primus extension can be diverted to any phone turning any line into a free Primus network number.
Third, the maintenance and upgrades associated with traditional PBX systems are no longer your concern. With a Primus hosted solution, we take the technological responsibility, leaving you to your business.
To see more ways Primus VoIP can save you money – click here
Is broadband included?
Not with Primus VoIP, but if you’d like to subscribe to Primus Broadband, we’ll be happy to set you up with both of our excellent services.
What type of broadband do I need to support my business?
Your bandwidth strength is the key to a quality VoIP service. A separate broadband connection is recommended to maintain quality of internet and VoIP service. Speak to your account manager about bandwidth strength and voice paths to facilitate your adoption of VoIP.
How complicated will the transition be?
Although the idea of switching systems seems like a laborious task, the transition to VoIP is actually quite simple. It’s basically a matter of registration, surveying your company’s particular needs, and service provisioning. One of the most attractive things about switching to VoIP is the “plug in and go” simplicity of it.
How long will it take to switch over?
The duration of the set-up period depends entirely on the needs and size of your business. Roughly, the service should be up and running between three and 15 business days.
Do I have to change numbers?
In most cases, no. Primus is able to offer portability for the majority of BT number ranges. However there may be a short period in which you will need to have your number diverted to a different range until the port is completed.
Do I need to invest in new equipment? (What about my old equipment?)
The only absolutely necessary new equipment is the VoIP adapter which is a small box slightly larger than a CD case. Other than that – the choice is up to you. We offer a range highly rated IP telephones from Polycom, a trusted provider whose handsets offer a functionality that integrates brilliantly with our service.
We understand that switching telephone systems might appear daunting which is why we can offer a migration service which integrates VoIP with the use of an old PBX allowing for a paced transition to IP telephony.
Do both sides need VoIP to make a call?
No not at all, it’s like any other telephone.
What happens if the network goes down?
Our system is backed by a redundant platform, which means that if one component fails, the second will seamlessly take over without notice. It is based on geographically resilient network architecture across two data centres and redundancy is built-in at every level.
How is the sound quality?
Assuming you have completed the site survey and configured your network accordingly, the sound quality is as good as the old phone system. However, like any system it must be maintained and monitored. As your company grows and the demand on your VOIP network increases, the quality of the calls may be affected if the network is not upgraded accordingly.
What is VoIP?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and allows people to make and receive telephone calls over a high speed internet connection rather than the traditional phone networks. Also known as IP telephony, or broadband voice – this innovative new service will bring down the price of your calls, while adding a bundle of new features designed to enhance your telecommunications experience.
How does it work?
Primus VoIP works by transforming voice into information (data packets) and then sending it over the internet like any other file or email.
With Primus, either an IP or analogue phone are connected to an adapter which is attached to your router or modem, from there you will be able to liberally make calls.
Is it right for my company?
Quite simply, yes. Regardless of its size, any company can benefit from Primus VoIP. While large companies will benefit from the high cost savings, the multitude of features can provide an SME with the tools of a corporation.
How will signing up for Primus VoIP save money?
In a many ways. First, on net calls are free of charge – this means calls between anyone on the Primus VoIP network are free, such as inter-office communication, or exchange with other Primus subscribers.
Second, your Primus extension can be diverted to any phone turning any line into a free Primus network number.
Third, the maintenance and upgrades associated with traditional PBX systems are no longer your concern. With a Primus hosted solution, we take the technological responsibility, leaving you to your business.
To see more ways Primus VoIP can save you money – click here
Is broadband included?
Not with Primus VoIP, but if you’d like to subscribe to Primus Broadband, we’ll be happy to set you up with both of our excellent services.
What type of broadband do I need to support my business?
Your bandwidth strength is the key to a quality VoIP service. A separate broadband connection is recommended to maintain quality of internet and VoIP service. Speak to your account manager about bandwidth strength and voice paths to facilitate your adoption of VoIP.
How complicated will the transition be?
Although the idea of switching systems seems like a laborious task, the transition to VoIP is actually quite simple. It’s basically a matter of registration, surveying your company’s particular needs, and service provisioning. One of the most attractive things about switching to VoIP is the “plug in and go” simplicity of it.
How long will it take to switch over?
The duration of the set-up period depends entirely on the needs and size of your business. Roughly, the service should be up and running between three and 15 business days.
Do I have to change numbers?
In most cases, no. Primus is able to offer portability for the majority of BT number ranges. However there may be a short period in which you will need to have your number diverted to a different range until the port is completed.
Do I need to invest in new equipment? (What about my old equipment?)
The only absolutely necessary new equipment is the VoIP adapter which is a small box slightly larger than a CD case. Other than that – the choice is up to you. We offer a range highly rated IP telephones from Polycom, a trusted provider whose handsets offer a functionality that integrates brilliantly with our service.
We understand that switching telephone systems might appear daunting which is why we can offer a migration service which integrates VoIP with the use of an old PBX allowing for a paced transition to IP telephony.
Do both sides need VoIP to make a call?
No not at all, it’s like any other telephone.
What happens if the network goes down?
Our system is backed by a redundant platform, which means that if one component fails, the second will seamlessly take over without notice. It is based on geographically resilient network architecture across two data centres and redundancy is built-in at every level.
How is the sound quality?
Assuming you have completed the site survey and configured your network accordingly, the sound quality is as good as the old phone system. However, like any system it must be maintained and monitored. As your company grows and the demand on your VOIP network increases, the quality of the calls may be affected if the network is not upgraded accordingly.
Linksys ships Wi-Fi VoIP phone in Europe
IFA 06 Linksys has at last launched its WIP330 802.11b/g Wi-Fi-connected VoIP phone in Europe - the company's first wireless handset to made available to buyers over here - after announcing the device at the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin this morning.
The WIP330 is the successor to the Cisco subsidiary's WIP300 handset - released like the WIP330 in the US back in February this year, but according to Linksys never brought over the Atlantic until today.
The handset connects to 802.11b and 802.11g wireless hotspots and incorporates IPv4's Type of Service extension to allow access points to give priority to voice data if they too support this quality-of-service system. It'll work with the WEP and WPA Wi-Fi security standards.
The WIP330 supports the SIP 2 VoIP standard - so it's not Skype friendly - and provides a range of customary phone features, including caller ID, call forwarding, speed dial, last number redial, a vibration alert, call waiting and so on. The handset can initiate three-way conference calls.
The 119g handset sports a 2.2in, 240 x 320, 65,536-colour display and a battery sufficient for three hours' talk time and up to 50 hours' operation in stand-by mode. It has 32MB of Flash memory on board and 64MB of RAM.
Linksys said the WIP330 is available now from Linksys distributors. Expect to pay around €399 (£268/$510) for it, the company advised.
The WIP330 is the successor to the Cisco subsidiary's WIP300 handset - released like the WIP330 in the US back in February this year, but according to Linksys never brought over the Atlantic until today.
The handset connects to 802.11b and 802.11g wireless hotspots and incorporates IPv4's Type of Service extension to allow access points to give priority to voice data if they too support this quality-of-service system. It'll work with the WEP and WPA Wi-Fi security standards.
The WIP330 supports the SIP 2 VoIP standard - so it's not Skype friendly - and provides a range of customary phone features, including caller ID, call forwarding, speed dial, last number redial, a vibration alert, call waiting and so on. The handset can initiate three-way conference calls.
The 119g handset sports a 2.2in, 240 x 320, 65,536-colour display and a battery sufficient for three hours' talk time and up to 50 hours' operation in stand-by mode. It has 32MB of Flash memory on board and 64MB of RAM.
Linksys said the WIP330 is available now from Linksys distributors. Expect to pay around €399 (£268/$510) for it, the company advised.
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