Tag Archives: Polycom

Can I use Polycom VVX Phones with Digium Switchvox?

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Are you considering to use Polycom Phones with Digium Switchvox but you are worried about the compatibility and other possible issues? Your questions have been heard! Our VoIP experts are here to answer the three frequently asked questions about using Polycom phones with Switchvox. Let’s find out!

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Question 1: Can I use Polycom VVX phones with Switchvox?  

Answer 1: A customer can use Polycom VVX with Switchvox but it’s important to understand the difference in the features they will and will not receive.  

Switchvox customers get the tightest integration when using a Digium Phone as compared to any other phone on the market. The phone applications (contacts, status, call queues, interactive voicemail, voicemail screening, etc.) are just a few of the features that really differentiate a Digium phone compared to other SIP phones.

See this video below that highlights some of the Digium Phone features under 2 minutes:  

For example, the status, presence and contacts apps, will save you an enormous amount of time on a daily basis.  You can press the contacts soft key on my D65 and start typing a name and immediately able to see the status/presence indicator of the person you are trying to reach.

Question 2: Do I need to add the Polycom feature pack to the order?

Answer 2: The Switchvox Polycom Phone Feature Pack enables easier configuration and greater flexibility and control for users and admins.  However, as Digium continues to roll out new integration and features, there is no guarantee that the Polycom phones will support the features.   

Today, the Polycom Phone Feature Pack enables features such as distinctive ringtones, you can enable or disable the missed call notifications, etc. More detail on Phone Feature Packs can be found here.

Question 3: If I have valid licenses and use Polycom phones, will I get full support from Digium?

Answer 3: Digium doesn’t support the Polycom phone (hardware).  However, Digium tech support will assist with answering questions related to the configuration/setup of an eligible Polycom phone when using a Switchvox Polycom Phone Feature Pack.  

More questions about Polycom phones, Digium phones, and Switchvox? Call one of our VoIP experts at 1-800-398-8647 today!

 

BroadSoft Updates the Firmware for Yealink and Polycom IP Phones

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updateSept. 19th, 2017- BroadSoft announced that they will be updating the firmware for Yealink T4xG/P/S Series and Polycom VVX IP Phones through their BroadCloud offering! Find some details here:

These firmware updates will affect several Yealink and Polycom phones:

  • Yealink T4xS Series (Firmware – 81.xxx.110)
  • Yealink T4xG / T4xP Series (Pending Firmware Deployment 81.xxx.90 – Sept 2017)
  • Polycom VVX Series (Pending Firmware Deployment 5.5.2 – Beginning Oct 2017)
  • Models for future consideration
    • Audiocodes 4xxHD IP Phones (Timing TBD)

They will be adding additional services to be managed from the phones:

  • BroadWorks Enterprise Directoryyealink-polycom
  • BroadWorks Personal Directory (Yealink Only)
  • Network Call Logs, Received/Missed/Placed
  • Office Anywhere
  • Remote Office
  • Hide Calling Line ID
  • Reject Anonymous calls
  • Sim-Ring

The XSI will also be enabled by Default for Yealink and Polycom VVX Phones. End users will need to reboot their phones to enable the XSI capabilities. Check out the User Guides for changes to the User Interface on the Phones.

More information see broadsoft’s website

3 Featured Refurbished IP Phones: Cisco SPA303G, Polycom IP560, and Yealink T42G

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This month for our dose of Refresh we are featuring three IP Phones that are effective in two ways: in helping you save money (increase your bottom line) as well as in increasing your business productivity.

Cisco SPA303GSPA303g

This 3-line IP Phone is a great asset for a business to use in a common area or kitchen where there are minimum communication requirements. The SPA303G is compatible with all major VoIP infrastructure.

Key Features:

  • Dual switched Ethernet ports
  • Speakerphone
  • Caller ID, call hold, conferencing
  • Supports both Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and Smart Phone Control Protocol (SPCP) with the Cisco Unified

Datasheet

Polycom IP 560Polycom IP 560

The Polycom IP 560 supports 4-line appearances and Polycom’s High Definition Voice (HD) Technology. The IP 560 is a Gigabit phone that features dual-ports for seamless integration with a PC or desktop server. The IP 560 is suitable for the office manager who needs the added feature buttons and the ability to maximize productivity by transferring or sharing data and applications between the network and the user’s computer.

Key Features:

  • XHTML micro-browser for Web application
  • Shared call/bridged line appearance
  • Busy lamp field
  • Presence and buddy list
  • PoE out of the box; AC Adapter sold separately if needed

Datasheet

Yealink T42G

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The Yealink T42G is a high-level phone with an elegant interface that supports up to 12-lines. It is a Gigabit device that also features Yealink’s Optima HD Voice for clear communication. 

Key Features:refresh

  • Dual-port Gigabit Ethernet
  • Yealink Optima HD Voice Supported
  • Up to 12 SIP accounts
  • Full-duplex hands-free speakerphone
  • No expansion module support
  • RJ9 Headset Port
  • 2.7” 192×64-pixel backlit Graphical LCD
  • Wall mountable
  • Supports PoE; power supply available separately

Datasheet

The SPA303G, Polycom 560 and the Yealink T42G give users looking to deploy VoIP an affordable solution that won’t break the bank, but that also won’t disappoint. If you want to learn more about the Refresh products selection process and the reconditioning process before the products are placed on the shelf, click on the banner below.

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

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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.
 

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