Tag Archives: Polycom

How to Connect the Polycom VVX Color Expansion Module to your VVX Phone

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how-to-connect-the-vvx-expansion-module

If you are one of the many people who handle an overwhelming amount of incoming calls for a living then you can understand that sometimes what your phone comes with, it’s always enough.

Every now and then we think of how much easier our jobs would be if we just had a little extra help. An example would be having two monitors on your desk instead of one. Another might be having your own stapler instead of having to walk to the printer every time you needed to staple something.

All of these things are nice to have, and sure, they would help make our lives easier. But, the reality is that we can probably still do our daily tasks even without them. And if you did need them to function, then I’m sure they would be on your desk.

But what happens when what you have just isn’t enough, and adding a missing component to your work day would really speed things along, and produce greater proficiency? That’s when you decide to pull the trigger and make additions to your team’s resources.

A good example of an add-on that would help someone who deals with massive amounts of call traffic a day would be an expansion module. Let’s take the Polycom VVX400 for example. This phone is stacked with features and it has a whopping twelve line keys!

Polycom VVX400

But what if twelve is not enough? And that paper sidecar is doing nothing but slowing you down? Even the people at Polycom know this could happen to anyone. That’s why they created the VVX Color Expansion Module!

If you are running short on line keys at twelve, how about 24 more?! That is what the VVX Color Expansion Module brings to the table. And if you’re still short? You can daisy chain up to 3! So if you have a Polycom VVX phone on your desk, and you think this is something you absolutely must have, the only question left is: How do I connect it to my phone?!

Well, that’s simple! Just follow these easy steps!


How to Connect the Polycom VVX Color Expansion Module to your VVX Phone

  1. Connect an auxiliary cable from the AUX port on the phone to the AUX IN port on the expansion module.
  2. The LED Lights on the module’s line keys flash red and green as the module start up.
  3. After the first module is on, you can connect up to two additional modules to your VVX phone.
  4.  Information for the expansion module will display here

And that’s really it! The rest of the work is going to be in the expansions interface, and for that, you will have to contact your Systems Administrator. However, once you have the expansion module, (or modules) hooked up, you can check their status to make sure you did everything properly. You can do this by following these steps:

  1. Select Settings in the phone’s menu
  2. Under Settings, select Status
  3. In the Status menu, select the module you want to view
  4. Information for the expansion module will display here

Some of the things you will be able to see are the type of module, software version, assembly revision, and serial number.

After it’s all said and done, the bottom line is that you will now be able to manage your company’s call flow like a pro!

Do you have a Polycom VVX phone on your desk? Do you have any Color Expansion Modules attached to it? If not, what are you using? We want to know!

The Polycom VVX300: Where did the ghost calls come from?

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Do you have questions about VoIP?

Our tech support team at VoIP Supply offers great pre- and post-sales support plus provisioning, consultations, configuration, and installation help. We get a lot of VoIP hardware and software questions and would like to share the solutions with everyone.

In the previous Mom’s calling Q&A series, we have discussed: When I try to edit in the web interface it claims local file has higher priority…  Today, we have more new real questions and answers from VoIP users just like you.

 

The Polycom VVX300: Where did the ghost calls come from?

Q: We are using Polycom’s VVX300 phones. We have gotten lots of ghost calls and I wonder where those calls came from?

A: The ghost calling is usually created by uPnP or SIP ALG that might be enabled on the router. Be sure to have a password listed on the PBX for your extension.

Stay Tuned

Come back for more VoIP questions and answers next time! If you have VoIP questions to ask us, please submit a technical support ticket or contact our VoIP experts today at (866) 582-8591.

10 Must-Have Portable Speakerphones for Road Warriors

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10-must-have-portable-speakers

If you are one of the road warriors,  you must know how difficult it is to keep connected with your work on the road without a decent and reliable communication solution. Here we have collected a list of 10 must-have portable speakers that are designed specifically for travelers just like you. Let’s take a look!

p620#1 Plantronics Calisto P620

You can’t travel without a personal Bluetooth conference phone like Plantronics’ Calisto P620. Designed with mobility in mind, the P620 includes a USB adapter for connecting to PCs and laptops and a soft carrying case. This is a portable wireless UC speakerphone that instantly transforms your laptop/ smartphone into a lifelike conferencing device. Check out the P620 datasheet. 

jabra-speak-510#2 Jabra SPEAK 510+ UC

Jabra’s SPEAK 510 speakerphone allows you to make conference calls anywhere on the road. With Bluetooth and USB connectivity, you can connect the Jabra 510 easily to your PC, tablet or smartphone within seconds. This solution features up to 15 hours wireless talk time and remote call control, giving you the flexibility you need. Check out the SPEAK 510 datasheet.

chat170#3 ClearOne Chat 170

The ClearOne Chat 170 is a great deal that gives you full-duplex audio communication with Microsoft Office Communicator 2007. This solution is currently on sale so if you are looking to save more, don’t hesitate! The Chat 170 is a perfect addition to use with your laptops/ PCs via USB for hands-free conversation. It requires no drivers or software to be installed. Check out the Chat 170 datasheet!

#4 Konftel Ego

Konftel. EGO.

The Konftel Ego is a compact and wireless personal speakerphone that delivers lifelike sounds with unique OmniSound® audio technology. This solution is perfect to use for a meeting with a couple colleagues in small rooms or in a hotel room when you are away from the office. The Ego is ideal alternative to a handset that works harmoniously with Skype for Business, Cisco, Avaya Communicator and more. Check out Konftel Ego datasheet.

#5 ClearOne Chat 160clearone-160

A complete full-duplex speakerphone that contains HDConference, the suite of high-performance audio technologies. The ClearOne Chat 160 are easy to pair with multiple VoIP softphones such as Skype. Its advanced automatic level management will make your trip just easier! Check out the Chat 160 datasheet!

#6 Polycom CX 100cx-100

The CX 100 comes with 2 high-quality microphones that offer excellent range for small group conversations. It is a USB-powered speakerphone with dynamic noise reduction and HD voice quality. Very simple to set up and use in seconds!

#7 Jabra SPEAK 810 UC Speakerphonejabra-speak-810

If you are looking for a solution that not only gives you an easy collaboration but also a quick setup process, Jabra’s SPEAK 810 speakerphone will be your go-to solution. This device is designed for simple use and easy conversation. The excellent sound provides a natural call feel with no feedback or echo.

#8 Plantronics Calisto 610calisto_610-png-pagespeed-ce-9y-ah1jjow

Looking for a worry-free solution? Choose the Plantronics Calisto 610, a portable USB speakerphone that comes with a 2-year limited warranty. This solution provides premium audio with echo cancellation and Omnidirectional microphone for 360-degree microphone pickup. It is ideal for team calls within small groups anywhere anytime.

#9 Logitech P710elogitech-p710e

The Logitech P710e is another great choice when it comes to making a conference call on the road. A 15-hour life battery and USB and Bluetooth connectivity give you a peace of mind traveling without a power supply. I personally love its integrated mobile device stand that enables shake-free video calls and hands-free access to the screen (perfect for multi-taskers like you and me!). Download the P710e datasheet.

#10 Sennheiser SP 10 MLsennheiser-sp-10-ml

The Sennheiser SP ML 10 Speakerphone is a multiple product awards winner in 2014. This device is the answer to easy management and high voice quality. Users love this long lasting wireless device that gives you up to 20 hours talk time without worrying about the low battery. The Sennheiser SP 10 ML is also Skype for Business certified which ensures you an outstanding communication experience when pairing with the Skype for Business. Check out the datasheet!

Are you a road warrior? What’s your must-bring device on the road? Share with us!

VoIP Phone and Headset Compatibility Guide is Now Available!

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After a long wait time, the headset you ordered has finally arrived. You can’t wait to open the box and try it with your VoIP phone but only find that it doesn’t work with your phone!

Urgh…..how frustrating.  Luckily, your apprehension has been heard!

 

a-guide-to-voip-headset-and-phone-compatibility-2The VoIP Supply team has created a comprehensive VoIP Phone & Headset Compatibility Guide to lead you to your right solutions within seconds. This guide covers top brands of VoIP phones and headsets including Grandstream, Cisco, Polycom, Sangoma, Yealink, Snom, Mitel, Digium, Jabra, Plantronics, Sennheiser, and VXi. Best of all, it’s FREE to download! Check it out today.

  • Learn the compatibility of IP phones and headsets
  • Explore ways of connectivity between IP phones and headsets
  • Learn product options for VoIP phones and headsets
  • Gain valuable insights to make the right purchase decision!

Fill out the form below to download:



What are the Best Headsets for Polycom Phones?

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Polycom VoIP phones and voice solutionsAre you currently using Polycom phones? Pairing the right VoIP headset with your Polycom VoIP phone is an important factor to enable clear communication. Let’s see some of the best Polycom compatible options on the market.

 

Jabra PRO 9460 Mono Wireless DECT Headset

Jabra PRO 9460 MonoJabra PRO 9460 features several state-of-the-art sound technologies to deliver unrivaled call clarity and safety. The Jabra PRO 9460’s wideband quality ensures crystal-clear communication, while its SafeTone technology protects your hearing. Multi-taskers love this world class multi-use solution that allows you to connect up to 3 devices (Desk phone, softphone, and Bluetooth-enabled devices) from a single headset.

Look at some of the popular functions:

  • Touch screen base with SmartSetup wizard
  • Noise-cancelling microphone and Digital Singal Processing
  • Wideband sound (150 Hz – 6,800 Hz)
  • Full hearing protection with Jabra SafeTone
  • Up to 450 feet wireless range

 

VXi Passport 21P-DC Binaural Headset

Passport 21PFor leading companies or contact centers who are looking for a reliable and affordable solution, the Passport 21 single-sire binaural headset can be a good choice. It is designed to provide an easy integration into call centers utilizing Plantronics or VXI-P quick disconnects to meet the demands of all-day use in the office.

See some useful features VXi Passport 21P-DC has to offer:

  • Compatible with Plantronics and VXI-P lower QD cords and Y-cords
  • Binaural 2 speaker design blocks out background noise
  • Noise-canceling microphone blocks background sounds from the other end of the line
  • Flexible “gooseneck” microphone boom stays in position for consistent voice input level
  • Competitively priced!
  • 2 Year Warranty

 

Plantronics CS540 Headset

Plantronics CS540Featuring three different wearing styles, the Plantronics CS540 headset is best known for being lightweight (only 21 grams). The Plantronics CS540 is also equipped with one-touch controls, energy efficient power management, and simple plug-and-talk installation to optimize your satisfaction. If you have a limited budget, the refurbished Plantronics CS540 is available at our refresh center.

Som helpful features and functions include:

  • Range up to 350-feet away for maximum mobility
  • Offers you a choice of three wearing options to match your personal style
  • Premium wideband audio quality
  • One-touch call answer/end, vol +/-, and mute
  • Smart power management system optimizes for range and talk time

What headset are you using for Polycom phones? We want to know.

See More Headsets

VoIP Q&A: Block Caller ID on a SIP Trunk, DTMF Pause for VoIP System, Polycom Handset Warranty

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Our tech support team here at VoIP Supply offers great pre- and post-sale support plus provisioning, consultations, configuration, and installation help.

We get a lot of VoIP hardware and software questions and realized that these solutions should be shared with everyone.

Here now are our top three (real) questions and answers from this past week (from VoIP users just like you).

Block Caller ID on a SIP Trunk

Q: I have a customer with a Xorcom XR1000 IP PBX. Because they are a social service agency helping battered women they would like to block incoming and outgoing caller ID on a SIP trunk.

What would be the easiest way to do that?

Is there a way to send an anonymous or unavailable in the outbound caller ID only?

A: That will be a function of their phone service provider, and I would recommend they contact them and make sure that’s a supported option.

You can try changing your outbound caller ID but you need to know if your SIP provider is overwriting that when the call hits their system.

They will probably need to add substitution rule on their side.

With some providers, you can remove the outbound caller ID field in your trunk to achieve an “unknown” caller ID, but as I previously mentioned, it’s very much a function of your SIP provider.

How to put a DTMF pause on a VoIP SIP system

Q: I’m trying to put in a pause or delay when using a DSS key for either the 3CXPhone CTI mode or Fanvil VoIP phone.

What I’m trying to accomplish is that so when I call a number and get their auto-attendant (AA), I can bypass it and dial an extension.

Is there a way of programming a custom dial to send it in pieces via 3CX through an extension or, something like that?

A: Pauses generally aren’t seen in SIP systems because all digits are sent at once.

It’s probably possible with some custom programming of a softphone, but it’s not a standard supported feature.

3CX might have a better suggestion or a custom solution. Doing a DTMF pause is a pretty asked for a feature that doesn’t really exist anymore in VoIP.

3CX has a paid support option so, if you’ve purchased that, absolutely take advantage of it. But, they also have a ticketing system (email support) which is free via http://support.3cx.com/.

What's the warranty on a Polycom handset?

Q:  The Polycom IP 650 handset mouthpiece on one of the units failed. The other end can barely hear the person talking into the handset.

The earpiece seems to work fine. I swapped handsets with another unit, and the good handset works fine on the same phone, and the bad handset does not work on the other phone.

I am trying to get information if that is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

A: We honor a 1-year warranty with new phone purchases. We’ve located a replacement handset and are sending you another one.

When you get the new handset, don’t worry about sending back the defective handset, just be kind enough to recycle it.

 

That’s all for this week, stay tuned for next week’s VoIP Q & A.

 

Polycom NoiseBlock for Conference Callers Who Don’t Know How to Use the Mute Button

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polycom noiseblock
Face it, when you’re on a conference call you’re either zoning out to enjoy a few moments of meditation or you’re doing something else entirely.

The Harvard Business Review article, What People Are Really Doing When They’re on a Conference Call, explains that, “It turns out many U.S. employees would rather do just about anything rather than listen intently to their coworkers from a remote location.”

 

HBR.org conference call
What people are really doing on a conference call. Source: HBR.org

Inevitably, just as you began to successfully tune out everyone else on the call you get distracted by another caller’s dog barking in the background or a keyboard clacking away.

Who needs that?

Introducing Polycom NoiseBlock, “a new feature on the Polycom RealPresence Collaboration Server that removes distracting noise from meeting conversations so everyone can be heard clearly – and people don’t have to mute themselves,” says Laura Shay at Polycom.

Of course, it’s harder to get away with doing other work or eating while on a video call but at least with NoiseBlock you can’t be accused of interrupting anyone.
 

confphonescta

VoIP Q&A: Jabra Motion Office Headsets for Polycom VVX 600 VoIP Phones

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Questions about VoIP devices and services are regularly submitted to VoIPSupply.com through a technical support ticket or via the “Ask The Expert” tab on our product pages.

We respond to these requests directly but more often than not, this Q & A would be helpful for lots of other folks.

Below are your VoIP questions answered – Real questions from real people just like you.

Q: I have a Polycom VVX600 phone. Will this headset [Jabra Motion Office] work with that phone? Is there something available that would signal people that I am on the phone when I am talking on the headset – perhaps an optional light or something?

Jabra Motion Headset
Jabra Motion Headset – One headset for all your phones, including the Polycom VVX600

A:   The Jabra Motion Office is a versatile wireless headset that promises to be “the only headset you’ll ever need.”

It’s designed to be the one headset you take with you everywhere to work hands free no matter if you’re making calls from your desk phone, VoIP softphone on your computer or laptop, cell phone, or tablet.

And in the words of the Jabra Motion datasheet, this headset “is designed to work with Bluetooth mobile phones. It can also work with other Bluetooth devices that are compliant with Bluetooth version 1.1 or higher and support a headset and /or hands-free profile.”

Polycom VVX600
Polycom VVX600 Business Media Phone has Bluetooth 2.1

The good looking Polycom VVX600 Business Media Phone has integrated Bluetooth 2.1 so, Yes, the Jabra Motion Office is a great headset for this phone and you’ll get extra use out of it with your other devices which is good if you work from home or on the road.

Jabra Busylight Signal

Lastly, to answer the second part of your question: “Is there something available that would signal people that I am on the phone when I am talking on the headset – perhaps an optional light or something?”

You’re in luck.

The Jabra Motion Office comes with a busylight indicator on the unit that will help you avoid interruptions, especially in a hectic office or one that has a more open working environment.

The Jabra busylight turns red when you’re on a call providing a clear signal that tells people not to bother you.

Stay Tuned

Check back next time for more VoIP Q & A.

Thanks for your questions!

VoIP Q&A: Polycom SoundStation IP 5000 Conference Phone

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polycom_ip5000Questions about VoIP devices and services are regularly submitted to VoIPSupply.com through a technical support ticket or via the “Ask The Expert” tab on our product pages.

We respond to these requests directly but more often than not, this Q & A would be helpful for lots of other folks.

Below are your VoIP questions answered – Real questions from real people just like you.

Q: How do you connect two calls to make a conference call [Polycom IP 5000] whether they call in or we call out? 

A:   The Polycom SoundStation IP 5000 Conference Phone is a 1-line SIP phone that allows you to create conferences with up to two other groups or, callers.

There’s a couple of ways to host a conference:

  1. Use the “Confrnc” soft key (top row of buttons with functions that display on the screen above)
  2. Or, when you already have an active call and a call on hold, use the “Join” soft key

After you set up the conference, you then have 3 options:

  1. Place the conference call on hold
  2. Split the conference call into two calls on hold
  3. Hang up and end the conference call and your connection

Now that the basics are out of the way lets get to your two scenarios.

Scenario #1: Both Conference Parties Call-In

You’ll be using the “Join” soft key in this example:

  • When the first caller calls you, place them on hold.
  • When the second caller calls you, press the “Join” soft key
  • You’ve now just created a conference call with the second caller (active call), the first caller (the held call), and yourself (you’ve been there all along).

Scenario #2: You Call Both Parties to Set Up Conference Call

You’ll be using the “Conference” soft key in this example:

  • Call the first party.
  • Press the “Confrnc” soft key. This places this active call on hold
  • Dial the number of your second party
  • Press the “Send” soft key.
  • When the second party answers, press the Confrnc soft key to join all parties in the conference

Need More IP 5000 Feature Info?

For all the detailed features and functions, check out the Polycom IP 5000 User Guide.

Don’t Talk Over My Shoulder – Echo Cancellation

What’s so great about the IP 5000, it’s been around for a few years now, you ask? One reason is the echo cancellation because, as this funny Polycom vid points out, you don’t want your calls to sound like someone’s talking over your shoulder:

IP 5000 Overview

For a more detailed overview of the IP 5000, watch our video here:

Stay Tuned

Check back next time for more VoIP Q & A.

Thanks for your questions!

VoIP Q & A: Phoenix Audio Speakerphone and Polycom RealPresence Group 300 Video Conferencing

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Note:  This post was updated with new information on August 6, 2014 pertaining to the Polycom video conferencing system mentioned below.

Questions about VoIP devices and services are regularly submitted to VoIPSupply.com through a technical support ticket or via the “Ask The Expert” tab on our product pages.

We respond to these requests directly but more often than not, this Q & A would be helpful for lots of other folks.

Below are your VoIP questions answered – Real questions from real people  just like you.

Phoenix Audio Quattro3 USB
Phoenix Audio Quattro3 USB Conference Phone

Q:  Can I connect this [Phoenix Audio Quattro3 USB] to my PC and use it for a Skype call?

Your question perfectly describes the purpose of the Phoenix Audio Quattro3 USB .

From the Quattro3 datasheet:

The USB outlet allows you to connect to the computer for any VoIP sessions such as Skype, Vidyo, etc.

So, the Quattro3 will work with any computer that has a USB port. Its small size makes this speakerphone extremely portable but with its multiple microphones, echo cancellation, noise suppression, and powerful speaker you can easily use the Quattro3 in larger conference rooms.

Polycom RealPresence Group 300
Polycom RealPresence Group 300 EagleEye Acoustic Video Conferencing System for Small Meeting Rooms and Offices

 

Q: Is it possible to use the Polycom Realpresence Group 300 with online services such as Skype or Go To Meeting?

A:  The Polycom RealPresence Group 300 EagleEye Acoustic is a video conferencing system that’s perfect for your office or small meeting rooms.

The beauty of the RealPresence Group 300 is that it is fully standards-based meaning, you can connect to “millions of other standards-based video systems in use today,” says Polycom.

It also works with leading Unified Communications (UC) platforms (like Microsoft Lync) so you don’t have to add any additional hardware, like expensive gateways.

UPDATE: In reference to the crossed out text about – I was wrong about the Polycom RealPresence capabilities and Michael Graves was right.

Graves correctly called me out in his post, A VoIP Supply Q&A Batting .500!:

When Polycom uses the term “standards based” they mean their product relies upon H.323 and SIP, the two most common standard protocols for VoIP and video conferencing equipment. I don’t believe that such a device can be used to join a Skype or GotoMeeting call. Neither of those services support interop with hardware end-points like the Group 300.

Read his post for a full explanation of the often confusing world of video conferencing interoperability.

I confused “standards based” with the Polycom RealPresence CloudAXIS Suite which, according to a Polycom Executive News Flash a year ago in Q1 2013, would allow RealPresence users to “invite anyone, anywhere with a browser to join reliable and secure video calls” and would be able to support “Skype, Facebook, and Google Talk for simple click-to-connect convenience…beyond the firewall for B2B and B2C connectivity.”

But, as it turns out, in addition to my misleading information, the Skype component of CloudAXIS no longer functions.

If you read the Frequently Asked Questions guide for Polycom RealPresence CloudAXIS:

Important Information Regarding Skype Integration
Microsoft announced the discontinuation of the Desktop Skype API as of January 1, 2014. This function is
critical for Skype integration with the RealPresence CloudAXIS social directory. Microsoft’s decision not only
affects Polycom but many other vendors using the API. Polycom is actively seeking an alternative way to
implement this feature but until it is determined we will have a gap in Skype support.

The CloudAXIS FAQ does mention a Skype workaround for the time being which can also be used for “virtually any messaging application”:

Is there a workaround for bringing Skype contacts into a RealPresence CloudAXIS meeting?
Yes. Although Skype contacts cannot be imported into the CloudAXIS global directory, users can still invite
Skype contacts into a CloudAXIS meeting by simply opening the Skype application on the desktop, checking
on the presence status of contacts within Skype, then copying and pasting the CloudAXIS meeting URL in the
Skype IM window with a message asking the contact to join the meeting. When the invitee receives the
message and clicks the CloudAXIS meeting link, their browser will launch and allow them to join the call. Note
that this same process can be used with virtually any messaging application.

Thank you to Michael Graves for pointing me in the right direction.

For more information and background about video conferencing options ranging from webcams to desktops to room systems, I encourage you to check out Graves’ post and these other articles: