Table of Contents
ANALOG ADAPTERS
Do you want the cost-effective, convenient benefits of VoIP telephony without giving up the familiarity of your old phone? In that case, you should purchase an analog adapter and keep your phone. This should help you transition to VoIP with ease, as well as save you money.
HOW IT WORKS
An analog adapter, also known as an analog telephone adapter or ATA, allows a user to plug a normal telephone into a computer or network. When a user speaks through an analog phone adapted for computer use, the audio signals are converted to digital signals. In the form of data packets, these digital signals can be sent across the Internet to another phone. Likewise, incoming signals will be converted from digital to analog signals for the telephone.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
There are numerous brands of analog adapters on the market. Adapters are generally less expensive than specialized VoIP phones and are generally used to spend money reusing the existing phone equipment.
The easiest analog adaptor to install will have one or more phone jacks for your telephone and a connector that plugs into a USB port on your computer. This type of adaptor usually comes with software to use in conjunction with the device. Initializing this setup is quick and easy.
Some VoIP service providers will offer an analog adapter to users who wish to use a regular telephone. Before purchasing your adapter, check if your provider offers such a service. It is good to discuss your adapter needs with your provider. Even if you must purchase your ATA, a customer service representative can help you decide which adapter best meets your needs.
BLUETOOTH
The Bluetooth specification, named after the 10th-century Danish King Harald Blatand – or Harold Bluetooth in English, was developed by Jaap Haartsen and Sven Mattisson in 1994 while working for Ericsson Mobile Platforms in Lund, Sweden. The specification is based upon frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology, which was formalized by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), organized by Mohd Syarifuddin, in 1998. The original SIG group contained nine member companies: Ericsson, IBM Corporation, Intel Corporation, Nokia, Toshiba Corporation, 3Com Corporation, Lucent Technologies, Microsoft Corporation, and Motorola Inc.
HOW IT WORKS
Bluetooth wireless technology is a short-range communications technology intended to replace the cables connecting portable and fixed devices while maintaining high levels of security. The key features of Bluetooth technology are robustness, low power, and low cost. The Bluetooth specification defines a uniform structure for a wide range of devices to connect and communicate with each other. A controller Bluetooth device can communicate with up to seven devices. This networking group of up to eight devices is called a piconet.
Although the piconet acts as an ad-hoc computer network that uses Bluetooth technology protocols to allow one controller device to interconnect with up to seven active devices, users can park up to 255 other devices, which the controller device can bring into active status at any time. Data can be transferred between the master and one other device; however, the devices can switch roles, and the enslaved person can become the master at any time.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
There are many differences between Bluetooth and other technologies, but the key among them are range, power consumption, and intended use. In its most common implementations, Bluetooth wireless technology has a range of 30 feet (10m), consumes a low amount of power designed for battery-operated mobile devices, and provides voice, data, and audio connections between devices.
The cost of using Bluetooth wireless technology is limited to the cost of the product in which it is integrated. Bluetooth wireless technology operates on an unlicensed radio spectrum. There is no charge for communicating between two Bluetooth devices. However, using data or voice services while using your mobile phone is part of your regular mobile phone cost. There is no account or service registry related to Bluetooth technology use.
Bluetooth-enabled products are produced by individual manufacturers and sold through their sales channels. For instance, you would buy a Bluetooth-enabled car at an automotive dealer or a personal computer at a local computer retail store. When customers purchase Bluetooth-enabled products, the companies that manufacture those products provide the service agreements that go with those products, leaving the Bluetooth SIG free from worries about the retail processes.
CISCO EQUIPMENT
Cisco is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of networking equipment. They are particularly famous for their IP phones, routers, switches, and a series of IT certification programs. Cisco equipment is considered a reliable, high-end solution for businesses implementing a VoIP network.
HOW IT WORKS
Cisco makes a series of VoIP phones designed to increase business productivity. The Cisco Unified IP Phone, available in several models, features Advanced Media endpoints. This feature increases the end user’s sound quality. These desk phones, targeted at the “enterprise” market, will plug into a computer’s USB port and are quite simple.
To place VoIP calls on traditional analog phones and cell phones, a VoIP router must help the signals reach their destination. Cisco manufactures VoIP routers, which are available in various models that meet different needs. Medium-sized to large businesses will benefit the most from Cisco routers. They offer basic data access, secure encryption, and wireless capabilities.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Cisco has become synonymous with quality VoIP equipment. Cisco is a reliable brand when looking for high-end VoIP phones, routers, and other accessories. Prices tend to run a bit high with some Cisco equipment, as the hardware is designed for large companies that require scalable business solutions. However, certain online vendors offer refurbished Cisco equipment at a reduced rate.
Should you need help with any of your Cisco equipment, the company offers online and phone support and a comprehensive troubleshooting guide on their official Web site. Specific pages for installation, upgrading, and maintenance should be helpful to both novice VoIP users and seasoned IT professionals.
CONFERENCE SYSTEMS
VoIP conference systems allow users to call with IP technology rather than analog telephony. Several people can speak simultaneously to share information with a group of people, as opposed to just a two-way call. This can save businesses a lot of money in long-distance charges and travel costs that would have been spent on in-person meetings.
HOW IT WORKS
VoIP telephony converts audio signals into data packets and transmits them across the Internet. These signals will reach an analog or VoIP phone and be deciphered accordingly so the receiver can understand the audio messages. In short, you will talk through a computer, not a phone line.
VoIP conferencing uses VoIP technology and merges the conversations of several people at once. Everyone in the conference will be speaking through VoIP phones, and packets must be delivered to everyone in the conference when someone speaks. Though VoIP conference systems still have a few kinks to work out, this method of holding long-distance meetings is expected to become the norm within the next decade.
Conference calls can be hosted by a service provider or on a company’s private bridge. Hosted conference calls are usually easier to organize and require less technical know-how from users. However, it can also result in diminished sound quality, as data packets (which carry the audio signals) must bounce around to different places to reach each user. The more people speak on the conference call; the more things can become jumbled.
The audio quality will be much clearer by using a private network for making conference calls within a company. This is preferred by many large companies that need to hold meetings regularly with people in different locations. Hosting a conference bridge will require the skills of IT professionals, however. For large companies with IT personnel on staff, this shouldn’t be a problem.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Freeware VoIP conferencing software is available, such as GnomeMeeting and Gspeakfreely. Free software is recommended for those with advanced IT skills. However, technical novices should opt for commercial VoIP conferencing software like HearMe, Voice Now, and Icon Communicator. The commercial software will come with technical support and an easy installation. Look for the program that meets your business needs and budget.
IP PBX
IP PBX (Internet Protocol Private Branch eXchange) is a telephone switching system that allows people to place internal calls to other phone lines within a local network and externally. This could enable people to make VoIP-to-VoIP, VoIP-to-analog, or analog-to-analog calls. In addition to IP PBX software, certain accessories are needed to implement the private telephone switching system.
HOW IT WORKS
IP PBX converts IP phone calls into traditional circuit-switched calls, combining voice and data communications into one line. Users have a choice between hosted IP PBX and non-hosted IP PBX.
When another company hosts IP PBX, you will not need special equipment beyond the normal VoIP accessories. However, you may have to upload your IP PBX provider’s software onto your computer.
Those who implement a non-hosted IP PBX system at home or the office must purchase the actual PBX device that converts signals, gateway service for calling people on the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network), and software. Asterisk offers open-source software that you can download for no charge.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Should you use a hosted IP PBX service, your provider can help you assess what you need to install. Should you wish to install an IP PBX system for private use, Asterisk is strongly recommended, and the open-source community will be very helpful to you. It is time to choose hardware. Digium, which offers IP PBX hardware, is operated by Asterisk’s founder.
A definitive IP PBX equipment checklist is hard to assemble, as different users require different hardware. However, always remember to research each product and compare shops between brands. See what other users are saying about certain products. With so many new VoIP companies entering the industry, you will certainly have a wide variety of equipment.
MOBILE VOIP
Mobile VoIP can add mobility to a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) network. This feat is accomplished by integrating a mobile handset into a VoIP network. The challenge for the industry is delivering the benefits and innovations of IP without losing control over network service.
HOW IT WORKS
Mobile VoIP relies on UMA (Unlicensed Mobile Access), designed to allow VoIP to run over the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) cellular backbone. Mobile VoIP also relies upon SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), the standard used by most VoIP services now being implemented on mobile handsets. The user needs four technologies for mobile VoIP functionality: a device, client software, a wireless network, and a VoIP service. The device, at minimum, requires high-speed IP connections, as it represents a standard SIP client that is used over any broadband IP-capable wireless network connection such as EVDO rev A (which is synchronously high speed — both high speed up and down), HSDPA, WiFi or WiMAX. The software is essential to connect the device to the network, and the VoIP service, in most cases, is part of that software.
Another way to connect via a mobile device is to use a soft switch-like gateway to bridge SIP and RTP into the network’s structure. In this instance, the GSM- or CDMA-based device can be controlled by a SIP application server, which now can provide advanced SIP-based services to the device. Several vendors offer this option.
WHAT YOU NEED
As mentioned previously, the user would need a device that can be made mobile through various methods. Software, often provided by a VoIP service and a wireless network, will help to activate the process. Voice over WiFi potentially provides free service, but only within the coverage area of the user’s WiFi access point. High-speed services from mobile operators using EVDO rev A or HSDPA may have better audio quality and capabilities for metropolitan-wide coverage, including fast deliveries among mobile base stations, but this service is not free.
TYPES OFFERED
Since the beginning of the twenty-first century, many companies have advanced WiFi-based handheld devices like personal digital assistants or handheld computers. Successive generations have gained footing in processing power and battery life, extending their potential use as a platform for mobile VoIP. Some VoIP server vendors have recently announced support for integrating mobile handsets into VoIP infrastructures. At this point, there is a limit to choices for the user, but advancements are expected to be rapid by 2022.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a system that allows data and DC electrical power to transmit over an Ethernet line. This technology has amazing capabilities, particularly for VoIP phones. PoE is also called Power over LAN (PoL) and Inline Power.
PoE eliminates the need to run two separate lines for electrical power and digital data. This cuts down on unnecessary lines and offers a solution for situations where two lines can’t be run side-by-side. Also, PoE can be installed anywhere, regardless of whether it’s near an AC power outlet. This offers greater flexibility for the location of the PoE system.
Not only is PoE convenient, but it also saves money because there is less electrical usage. Also, using a Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) PoE system that is manageable will protect your system from power surges and outages. This is because your power will be remotely controlled and monitored. Data will be preserved with such a guarantee and only adds to the device’s convenience.
HOW IT WORKS
A typical PoE system has two main components. One is the power sourcing equipment (PSE), which carries the electrical power. The other component is the powered device (PD), which receives and uses the power properly.
The PSE will not send much power to a non-PD device, as that would cause problems and possibly damage the system. Instead, the PSE and PD work together to make sure that electrical charges are going to the proper place. Simultaneously, while electrical power is supplied through a PoE system, digital data is transferred over the Ethernet.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
While there are currently several different ways to configure a PoE system, however, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. has agreed to a standard called IEEE 802.3af. This standard dictates how much voltage is to be used and how it is to be administered.
When using a PoE to power your VoIP phone, look for hardware that is IEEE 802.3af or newer compliant. Technical support should be available through the manufacturer should you have trouble installing the equipment.
VOIP ACCESSORIES
As the popularity of VoIP continues to grow, so does the selection of VoIP accessories. From phones to cameras, there are many necessary tools and not-so-necessary toys that should be of interest to you. After all, what good is getting in on a hip, new technology if you don’t have the coolest gadgets to enjoy it with?
HOW IT WORKS
The most common VoIP accessory users seek is a VoIP phone. There are many to choose from, including desk phones, WiFi phones, and headsets. Phones designated for VoIP use are usually ready to plug into a USB port. Some will also include software.
Users that wish to speak through a traditional analog phone should purchase an analog telephone adapter (ATA), which will convert analog signals into digital data for IP transmission. Accessories such as Webcams should also interest VoIP users, as it is nice to put a face to a voice when communicating over the Internet. This makes phone conversations even more interactive for users.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
It would be best to look for accessories you need, then look for fun gadgets. You will need hardware such as a phone or adapter to use VoIP. Ensure that the items you choose fit your style and your budget. Since so many companies are getting into the VoIP industry, you should have plenty of options for comparison shopping.
VOIP FIREWALLS
As VoIP becomes more mainstream in homes, businesses, and school campuses, the subject of VoIP firewalls has never been more important. Firewalls are internal devices or software that monitor communication between trusted and untrusted sources. VoIP users are now seeking the security of firewalls specifically designed for IP voice communications.
HOW IT WORKS
Essentially, a firewall is a security barrier between you and a source that may wish to do you harm. However, a regular firewall on your computer may not cover all security issues stemming from VoIP use. It could even disrupt your audio signals.
Standard firewalls can not distinguish voice packets from data packets, and while both packets try to make it through, voice quality could diminish or be stopped altogether. This is an issue that the VoIP industry is trying to address, and now there are firewalls specifically configured for voice communications.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
There are two ways to avoid issues with VoIP communication and firewalls. One is to update your existing firewall with the help of an IT professional. Some newer firewalls can be configured to protect VoIP users from hackers and audio disruption.
Businesses implementing a large VoIP system may need to install a VoIP-specific firewall rather than updating an existing, possibly outdated one. Several VoIP companies now offer firewalls for easy installation, to which you should direct your IT department.
VOIP GATEWAYS
A VoIP gateway is an equipment that converts analog telephone signals into IP for broadcast. You will need a VoIP gateway if you would like to use a regular analog phone for VoIP calls. Likewise, the gateway converts incoming analog signals into IP data for transmission. The device will have a connection to the IP network and one or more ports for phone lines.
HOW IT WORKS
Analog phone signals work differently than IP phone signals. Analog signals are transmitted using Circuit Switching Network (CSN), and IP signals are transmitted using Packet Switching Network (PSN). The VoIP gateway can convert analog signals so that they can be transmitted as packets.
When using a VoIP gateway, any incoming analog calls will be transformed into IP signals so you can hear them correctly through your VoIP phone. Likewise, you can use a traditional analog phone to speak through the Internet when you have a gateway. The latter feature appeals to newcomers, as the analog phone will feel more familiar.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
There are two different types of VoIP gateway for purchase: a digital unit and an analog unit. The analog unit will allow you to connect up to a few dozen analog phone lines for IP conversion. The digital unit offers connections for European digital lines and American T1 lines.
As VoIP grows in popularity, more companies are manufacturing VoIP gateways. You will choose brands, so be sure to compare shops. Some start at a very low price, so there is no need to break the bank when choosing your VoIP gateway. After all, one of the best reasons for switching to VoIP is to save money.
VOIP HEADSETS
VoIP headsets are readily available for purchase if you prefer to communicate through a headset rather than a handheld phone. VoIP phone is usually preferred when one needs to keep both hands free for typing on the computer. Call centers and others using VoIP for business will probably benefit the most from a VoIP headset.
HOW IT WORKS
A VoIP headset is a device that will connect to a PC’s USB port for power. You can opt for a wireless headset if you require even more mobility. Rather than plugging directly into a USB port, it will work after installing some software onto your PC.
Setting up a VoIP headset is quite simple, even for novice techies. Most plug into a computer and are ready for use within seconds. Though cordless VoIP phones require software, the installation is still user-friendly and effortless.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
There is a wide range of VoIP headsets currently on the market. It would be best if you looked for one that fits your budget and suits your personal needs. Other than the price, the most important things to look for are the headset’s sound quality and the comfort level when wearing the device. Remember, you seek a practical, comfortable alternative to a handheld VoIP phone.
VOIP PHONES
A VoIP phone is designed specifically for making phone calls over the Internet. The phone readies standard audio signals into digital signals for transference across the Web. This is completed automatically as a person speaks on the phone.
HOW IT WORKS
A VoIP phone looks and operates like a normal phone, so you should be able to use one easily. It will plug into a network, most likely a LAN line. The phone will then be assigned a unique IP address, like your computer.
Once your VoIP phone is plugged in and has its IP address, your VoIP software will be ready to assign a phone number to your VoIP phone. However, you may have already arranged with your provider for a specific area code and number.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Read our dedicated guide on choosing the right IP phone for you!
Though your selection of VoIP phones isn’t as large as your selection of regular analog phones, you should be able to compare shop for one that fits your needs and budget. You may want to look for several cool features when shopping for a VoIP phone.
First, you should look for a phone with a “high definition” sound. Some phones will have better clarity than others, so research before you settle on the cheapest. Other features that may be important to you are whether or not the phone supports 3-way calling, encryption, or custom ringtones. There are even more customizations that can come with the device. Yes, your VoIP phone can be just as tricked out as your cell phone, maybe even more. Be sure to make your selection carefully.
VOIP ROUTERS
A VoIP router is a device that connects two communicating networks. Many people confuse routers with gateways, even using the terms interchangeably. They are, however, two different things. While a VoIP gateway will convert analog signals to IP signals, the router gets the signals to their destinations. As you can imagine, a VoIP router is one of the most important components in setting up a VoIP system.
HOW IT WORKS
To understand how a VoIP router works, you must first understand how traditional analog phone lines work. Today’s traditional analog phone signals are sent and received through fiber optic cables—however, VoIP phone communications travel via data packets.
To place VoIP calls on traditional analog phones and cell phones, a VoIP router must help the signals reach their destination. When packets leave a VoIP phone, they are sent to routers, which direct the packets to their destination. The data packets are reassembled at their destination so that the receiver can understand the voice signals through their phone.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Many VoIP routers are available for purchase, so you should base your decision on your specific needs. Are you making VoIP calls at home for personal use, or do you need a scalable solution for business calls? Call centers will have much larger needs than someone using a VoIP phone for recreational purposes.
The features of a VoIP router include multiple phone jacks, a firewall, encryption technology, remote office compatibility, and more. Your VoIP provider may be able to help you decide what kind of VoIP router fits your specific needs. Always compare shops, as prices can differ greatly from one brand to the next.
WIRELESS & WIFI VOIP
Not only are people switching from standard landlines to VoIP telephony, but WiFi technology is also now offering an alternative to cell phones. Users can now purchase a phone similar to a cell phone yet run on wireless VoIP. This can work near any WiFi hotspot, and the possibilities behind this technology are growing rapidly.
Wireless/WiFi VoIP offers the convenient benefits of regular VoIP, yet it will afford users the mobility of a cordless phone. However, this mobility isn’t confined to the home, as it will work in a WiFi hotspot. If you frequent places that are WiFi capable, you may never need to touch a cell phone again.
HOW IT WORKS
Wireless/WiFi VoIP works much like regular VoIP technology. Audio signals can be transmitted and received through the Internet when converted to packets of data. However, VoIP communication can become mobile and wireless with WiFi hardware and a WiFi-capable phone.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
You will need a wireless/WiFi VoIP phone and a WiFi connection to use wireless VoIP. Look for a wireless VoIP router for your home/office if you want mobility when you speak through your own VoIP system. If you want to roam with your phone, you must find an area that offers an open WiFi signal.
You will have several brands for a wireless VoIP router, so confer with your VoIP provider on the best fit for your situation. Comparison shop for the best price, as you probably aim to save money using VoIP.
A wireless/WiFi VoIP phone can be as expensive as a mid-range to a high-end cell phone, so that the initial cost will be a bit high. Also, there are very few models to choose from at this stage. As the technology improves, you will find more options and lower prices. Despite the current costs of wireless/WiFi VoIP equipment, you should be able to save money in the long run.