Author Archives: Annie C

Provisioning Polycom Phones with Switchvox Phone Setup Tool

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Looking to provision your Polycom phones with Switchvox? If you purchased Phone Feature Packs for your Polycom phone and has one of the supported phones listed below, then you can take advantage of Digium Switchvox Phone setup Tool to help you configure and maintain the phones.

  • Fully Supported:  SoundPoint IP 320, 321, 330, 331, 335, 430, 450, 501, 550, 560, 650, 670, and SoundStation IP 6000, 7000
  • Partially Supported:  SoundPoint IP 301, 600, 601, and 4000
  • Not Supported:  SoundPoint IP 300, 500

Follow the steps below for Polycom IP phones running SIP firmware 1.6.7 or higher:

1)      To provision your Polycom phone with the Switchvox Phone Setup Tool, first make sure that:

  • Your Polycom phone is listed in the “Unknown Phones” section (Setup -> Phone Feature Packs -> Unknown Phones)
  • You are using the eth0 port (Server -> IP Configuration)
  • Confirm the phones are on the same local subnet as your Switchvox server
  • You have enough Phone Feature Packs to cover the number of phones you are setting up

2)      Once the top 3 criteria have been confirmed, reboot your phone to default (Menu -> Settings -> Advanced -> PW: 456 -> Admin Settings -> Reset to Defaults -> Reset local configuration).

3)       When the phone is completely back up, reset the ‘Device Settings’ (Menu -> Settings -> Advanced -> PW: 456 -> Admin Settings -> Reset to default -> Reset device settings) which will reboot the phone again.

4)      Check the radio box next to the phone MAC address you’re looking to configure in the “Unknown Phone” section of the “Phone Feature Packs”, then click the blue “confirm checked phone” button at the top of the page.  The phone should automatically reboot and begin the formatting process, but if it didn’t automatically reboot then you can manually reboot the phone either through its menu or by unplugging the phone.   Note:  This process could take several minutes and several reboots.  Be patient and let the phone do its work so it can pull all the necessary firmware.

5)      When step 4 is completed, the phone should display a static screen with the Digium Switchvox logo and the word “New” next to Line 1 on the phone.

6)      Next, locate the phone MAC address in the “Unconfigured Phones” section of the phone setup tool.  Once the phone’s MAC address has been located, click “Modify” and enter in the extension you wish to configure to this phone and save.   This should auto-populate the extension info such as first and last name.

7)      Check off the radio box again next to the MAC address and click the blue “confirm checked phones”.  This will reboot the phone again, but if not just reboot it manually by unplugging the phone power or go thru its menu options.  When the reboot completes, the phone MAC address should be listed under the “Configured Phones” section.  Step 7 is the final step, and will configure your phone with the proper extension, register the phone with Digium Switchvox, and populate the contact directory with the phonebook extensions for that particular extension.

8)      Congratulations!  Your Polycom IP phone should now be configured.

Note:  If on step 1 you couldn’t find your Polycom phone’s MAC address under “unknown phones”, or if the phone is on a different subnet / a remote phone, then try these steps to get your phone visible to Switchvox.

  1. Reboot your phone to default (Menu -> Settings -> Advanced -> PW: 456 -> Admin Settings -> Reset to Defaults -> Reset local configuration).
  2. When the phone is back up, reset the ‘device settings’ (Menu -> Settings -> Advanced -> PW: 456 -> Admin Settings -> Reset to default -> Reset device settings) which will reboot the phone again.
  3. After the phone is completely back up, go to Menu -> Settings -> Advanced (PW: 456) -> Admin Settings -> Network Configuration -> DHCP Menu -> Set “Boot Server” to “static” then go back one menu and select “Server Menu” field.
  4. On the next page, set “Server Type” to “HTTP” and the “Server Address” to “IP.of.the.PBX/pc”.  Note:  The server address field is case sensitive.
  5. If the phone remote connects via a WAN, the “server address” will be the WAN IP of the Switchvox network / pc.  (ie: 173.227.12.32/pc)
  6. Save your settings and reboot the phone again.
  7. Once the reboot completes and is back up, you should now be able to find the phone in the “unknown phones” or the “Unconfigured Section” of the Switchvox “Phone Feature Packs”.
  8. Go back up and follow the rest of instruction from either step 4 or 5 (depending on where you found the phone MAC address) to complete the phone configurations.

Any question?  Just leave a comment below or contact us for assistance.

Save with Digium Switchvox UC Solution

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Are you a small or mid-sized business (SMB) looking to implement Unified Communication for your business?  With the right Unified Communication solution, your business could gain great efficiency, raise revenue and increase customer satisfaction.

Digium Switchvox UC

We realize it can be overwhelming as you begin your search for a new phone system not knowing where to start with so many options.  If you would like great features and flexibility all for a reasonable investment, we’d like to suggest Digium Switchvox as a starting point in your research.  Why?  To start with, Frost & Sullivan the current leading industry analyst have researched the Unified Communications market and did all the work for SMB consumers.  As a result of their findings, they’ve awarded Digium Switchvox their 2011 Customer Value Award winner as the best value solution for Unified Communication for SMBs.

Digium’s Switchvox phone system offers a solid UC solution including enhanced features and significant cost savings for SMBs compared to similar solutions offered by other vendors such as Avaya IP Office or ShoreTel ShoreGear VoiceSwitch.  And according to the graph below by Digium, a company with 100 employees could gain around 40,000 additional hours a year by utilizing the productivity tools offered by their Switchvox UC platform – that’s like adding another 18 employees to your staff!  Whether you’re trying to do more with less, or trying to be more efficient to fuel growth, the hours and dollars saved can be significant.

Switchvox Efficiency Gains Chart

Let’s take a closer look at Digium Switchvox and why they ranked best value for SMBs:

  1.  Competitive UC Features

  • True UC system – integrated PBX, unified messaging, conference bridge, fax server, instant messaging, presence, video calling, mobility, call queues, recording/monitoring, and call logging software functions onto a single rack mount or desktop appliance.
  • Customizable Switchboard UC client provide access to all features/applications in one place with personalized view.
  • Support SIP standards based phones (Digium also offers IP phones designed for Asterisk for best integration)
  • Excellent scalability, applications support and applications integration.

  2.  Value-added Capabilities at Competitive Price

  • A single activation license provides users access to all embedded applications and features including the Switchboard UC interface
  • Various applications and server hardware supports charged as extra add-on with alternate solutions are already included with Switchvox.
  • Software update subscription plans to receive new features and technical supports starting at only $10 a year per user.
  • No charge for Digium APIs.  MS Outlook and Firefox plug-ins, CRM interface panels, social media integration tools, and additional web mashups are included and built-in with Switchvox.
  • Develop CEBP integration by downloading software development kits or access Digium’s developer website and forums for free.

3.  Great Value

  • Cost-effective over system lifecycle including ongoing support/maintenance costs and upgrades
  • Single appliance reduces power, real estate and hardware requirements compared with multi-box alternatives with similar functionality.
  • Reduced training and time managing applications by using a simple, common Switchboard interface.
  • IP phones can be deployed with auto-provisioning features which reduce set-up time and frustration.
  • Save time and boost productivity with Switchvox UC.

For additional savings on your business investment, also check out the tax savings you could get via Section 179 for business equipments purchased during 2012.  Furthermore, as an additional bonus, we’re also offering a free iPOD Shuffle with each purchase of Digium Switchvox phone system or Switchvox system bundles now through end of 2012 (see full offer for details).

Sounds good?  Explore Digium Switchvox on our site or feel free to contact one of our helpful consultants for more information.  Due to manufacturer MAP restrictions, don’t forget to log in or contact us for our special pricing on your Digium Switchvox systems!

Buy 12 VXi Headsets Get 1 Free!

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VXi 2012 Promo

Limited time VXi promotional offer!

There are a multitude of solid ways VXi headsets can give you more, but let’s start off with a special, limited-time offer from VXi and The Telecom Spot that’s guaranteed to give you more for your money!

  • A GREAT deal: BUY 12, GET ONE FREE!
    From September 4, 2012 until December 31, 2012, you’ll receive one headset FREE for every 12 VXi UC ProSet™, Passport®, Tria™, TalkPro™ and V100 headsets you buy.    Offer also applies to the L50, Everon Amplifier, D200, X100 and X200!
  • Awesome sound quality.  Superior noise-canceling and wideband audio mean shorter calls and more productive employees with more satisfied customers. 
  • Durability. VXi headsets keep working, so your people can, too.
  • Comfort. VXi headsets are comfortable and stay put, minimizing agent distractions and headset wear-and-tear.
  • Compatibility. To protect your investment, VXi headsets work with VXi, Plantronics and GN/Jabra equipment.
  •  Longevity. VXi headsets have future-proof technology, so they’ll handle whatever phone system you have now or will have—even UC!
  • Trade-in. Buy VXi, and get credit for your old headsets—even if they’re not ours!
  • Service and support. No one works harder to keep you satisfied.
  • Value. Put it all together, and you get much more for your money with VXi.

Note:  VXi’s “Buy VXi and Get Even More” offer ends December 31, 2012, so don’t miss it!

VXi Q4 2012 Promotion Terms and Conditions

  • The “Buy VXi and Get Even More” program will run from September 4, 2012 to December 31, 2012.
  • Promo applies to VXi UC ProSet™, Passport®, Tria™, TalkPro™, V100, L50, Everon Amplifier, D200, X100 and X200  models only.
  • In order to qualify, you must purchase at least 12 of the same qualifying product. The free product will be the same model as those from      the qualifying purchase. No mixing and matching.
  • For example, if you buy (12) V100s with (12) L50s, you will qualify to receive one (1) V100 and one (1) L50 FREE.
  • Fulfillment of TOTAL qualifying order INCLUDING free product(s) must ship from VXi directly.
  • Qualifying order must be placed, received and shipped to you by December 31, 2012.
  • This offer cannot be combined with other special offers or any other special promotions and pricing.
  • BlueParrot headsets are not eligible for this offer.
  • Offer valid in the U.S. and Canada only.

Introducing New snom 710 IP phone

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Introducing snom 710 IP phone, an affordable entry-level business phone with exceptional design, performance and advanced IP communication features, and the latest addition to snom’s 7XX line of quality business phones.  A perfect blend of performance and value, the snom 710 is ideal for SMBs, hosted service provider of VoIP deployments and larger scaled multi-site installations, as well as small to large scale deployments in a multitude of business environments.

snom 710 phone

Some outstanding features include:

  • Affordable and competitive pricing
  • Sleek ergonomic design
  • Supports broad range of wideband audio (including TIA-920 and G.722) for enhanced high-def voice quality
  • Advanced audio system with high fidelity audio speaker and microphone
  • Address book with 1,000 possible entries
  • Hands-free speakerphone
  • Power over Ethernet (POE)
  • 2x Ethernet connections
  • Ringtone selection
  • LED call indication
  • Blocking of anonymous calls
  • 3-way conference on the phone
  • Four context-sensitive function keys on easy-to-read phone display
  • Five freely programmable keys with built-in LEDs for quick view of programmed functions such as one-touch speed dial, forward, transfer etc.  Or use to conveniently monitor status of other extensions
  • Four SIP identities provide multiple phone lines for separate business functions or handling high call volumes
  • Friendly menu-driven user interface for simple access to core telephony features
  • Utilize snom’s 5th generation SIP firmware which provides interoperability with various popularly used SIP-based IP PBXs and soft-switches
  • Quick and secure phone provisioning with pre-installed security certificate without manual interaction for simple deployments
  • Advanced remote management and provisioning, including support for TR-069/TR-111 – perfect for VoIP hosted service providers, larger scale multi-site installations or SIP-based IP PBXs in variety of business environments

The snom 710 phone is now available at The Telecom Spot for pre-order (ETA October 2012).  Questions?  Contact one of our helpful consultants or leave a comment below, we love to hear from you!

Jabra Link 850 Free Headsets Promotion!

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Boost your contact center productivity with the all new Jabra Link 850!

Jabra Link 850

From now thru end of 2012, Jabra will offer you a free headset for each bundle of Jabra Link 850 purchased along with another Jabra headset* when at least 5 sets are purchased on the same invoice. (*Limited to Jabra wired headset GN1900, GN2000, GN2100 or Biz 2400. Headset types cannot be mixed within the 5 sets.)

What is Jabra Link 850? It’s a new product from Jabra and the first audio processor on the market that is compatible with both standard telephone systems and VoIP platforms. If you previously purchased Jabra’s GN8000-MPA and/or GN8050-TCA amplifiers, Jabra Link 850 is the new and improved replacement product.  When used together with a Jabra headset, Link 850 provides even better phone line noise reduction through its digital signal processing technology, which will improve customer satisifaction due to improved call quality.  Easy volume control and muting capability will help your call agents work efficiently.  Jabra Link 850 is also simple to set-up and maintain. It can be connected to any phone with a modular connector or a PC through USB.

See Jabra’s promo flyer below for more details! Jabra Link 850 Promo

Upgrade Your Phone Systems and Save with Section 179 Tax Deduction

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Want to increase efficiency, productivity and save money for your business? If you have an outdated phone system, it may be much more cost-effective to upgrade to a new system and the government will even help with the cost!

Tax Deduction Info on www.Section179.Org!

Did you know with Section 179 of the IRS tax code, business can get tax deduction off full purchased price of qualifying business and office equipments for the current tax year? (see here for details)  For 2012 tax year, that means the equipment must be purchased and place into service between 1/1/2012 and 12/31/2012.  Both new and used equipments qualify for Section 179 deduction, and there’s also a “bonus depreciation” that covers new equipments. The capital purchase limit is topped off at $560,000 (increased from previous years) and the 2012 deduction limit is $139,000 so it’s a great opportunity for small and med-sized businesses.

Most of the products available on The Telecom Spot would qualify, as the tax deduction is available for business/office  equipments. Take advantage of this goverenment incentive program and get a boost for your business today!  To find out more, click on the Section 179 badge above for relevant information and FAQs.  There’s even a calculator you can use to find out how much you could save!

snom 821 UC Phone Now MS Lync Certified!

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Exciting news – snom announced today that their Apollo UC edition firmware is now qualified for Microsoft Lync!

The snom UC edition firmware is an optional software module for the snom phone/devices in their Unified Communications portfolio.  It combines the advantage of open standards-based IP telephony by using SIP protocal to seamlessly integrate with UC client apps such as Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2, Lync and as well as other SIP based IPPBX in parallel.

snom 821 phone

The first to receive “Qualified for Microsoft Lync” certification is their snom 821 desktop phone, now available to be configured with their new Apollo firmware. Unique Lync phone features of the snom 821 UC edition with Apollo firmware includes: Speed and simplify Microsoft Lync Server 2010 Enterprise Voice deployment and operation in multi-site business environments, added music on hold, and boss/admin and presence buttons. Over the next few weeks, snom expects their entire UC portfolio running Apollo firmware to also receive the Microsoft Lync certification including snom 300 and 370 UC editions.

Quick overview of the snom UC portfolio to begin your search for that perfect UC solution:

• snom 821 UC edition – With color display and advanced presence features integrated with call history and contact lists, it’s recommended for information workers.

• snom 870 UC edition – snom’s latest innovation with completely redesigned new touchscreen with unique and intuitive user interface; perfect for modern people who requires user friendly high tech functions.

• snom 300 UC edition – Recommended for entry-level users who just need a simple phone with basic features in areas such as lobbies, hallways, closets and cafeterias where a lot of UC functionality isn’t required.

• snom 320 UC edition – An affordable yet powerful SIP phone with built in, full-duplex speakerphone and 3-party conference bridging – recommended for medium to heavy phone users.

• snom 370 UC edition – Has high audio quality, is easy to use, secured by VPN capabilities and interperability, has expanded memory capacity and contact status display so it is recommended for anyone who needs to transfer calls frequently such as receptionists or others including SMEs, home office, private users or ISP applications.

• snom UC600 – A Lync-optimized USB phone peripheral device that’s basically a phone/handset attached to PC. It allows user to use a traditional style phone/handset to maintain that familiar feel, while the calls are actually being handled by the PC with Microsoft Lync 2010 client app installed.

• snom PA1 – snom’s paging device that unites the functions of a phone with high-performance digital amplifier for broadcasting annoucements and supplying background music to assigned rooms, hallways and office floors.

• snom MeetingPoint – The only SIP conference phone that allows user to use MS Office Communication Server 2007 R2 and standard SIP accounts in parallel.

 snom UC editions

Snom’s UC edition phones are available at The Telecom Spot, and for the latest release of snom’s Apollo firmware (8.8.1.11) please visit http://www.snom.com/en/lync

Questions? As always we love to hear from you!  Leave a comment below, or contact one of our helpful consultants today and see how these UC edition phones can help with your business operations and that all important bottom line savings.

New Plantronics CS530 Wireless Headset System Replaces CS70N

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Plantronics CS530 Headset

There’s a newcomer to Plantronics’ popular CS family of wireless products – the CS530 wireless headset system.

An upgraded version of the popular CS70N, the new CS530 (model# 86305-01) was elegantly redesigned with added wideband audio support, magnetic docking station and more, while keeping the same over-the-ear wearing style and the attractive affordable price point. A bundling option is also available with the convenient HL10 lifter (model# 86305-11).

CS530

Key benefits

  • Enjoy clearer desk phone communications with wideband audio quality
  • Enhance collaboration — conference in up to three additional headsets
  • Gain mobility — multitask, hands-free up to 350 feet
  • Voice-dedicated DECT™ technology eliminates Wi-Fi interference
  • Adaptive power system optimizes for range and talk time
  • Use with Electronic Hookswitch Cable or Handset Lifter to remotely answer/end calls

The new CS530 and CS530/HL10 bundle is now available from The Telecom Spot at a great introductory price including free shipping*! Check it out and as always, if you have any questions at all, contact one of our helpful consultants or leave a comment below. We love to hear from you!

*Free shipping offer for orders over $99 – Excluding AK, HI and Int’l

Introducing VXi Headsets – Superior Sounds with Exceptional Value!

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The Telecom Spot has just started carrying VXi headsets, providing you headsets with superior sound, interchangeability, durability and comfort – all at an exceptional value!

VXi Headsets

5 reasons why we recommend VXi headsets:

  1. Superior Sounds:  You get clear and consistent communications with their best-in-class noise cancelling microphones and high quality speakers – reducing call talk time and agent errors.
  2. Interchangeability:  VXi is flexible with direct connect options, compatible with Plantronics and GN Netcom cords and amplifiers, and protects your existing investment while upgrading headsets.
  3. Great durability:  Vxi headsets are engineered for demanding contact center environments with 5+ years of steady use on average. And with its kink-free, flexible and tough gooseneck microphone boom it ensures constant and proper microphone placement.  There’s less than 2% failure rate for life of their products!
  4. Comfort: Lightweight and adjustable with multiple wear styles (monaural over-the-head, binaural over-the-head, over-the-ear and behind-the-neck), your all-day wear comfort is assured!
  5. Exceptional Value:  Plus VXi provides customer-centric focus, two years hassle free warranty on most models, interchangeability options and solutions for different markets.

Not sure if your phone is compatible?  Check it out at VXi’s interactive compatibility guide here or contact one of our helpful sales consultants with any questions.

NEC SL1100 or DSX?

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NEC SL1100 or DSX?  Which is better? -That’s a question we hear often.

Both are great reliable small business phone systems at an affordable price, it only depends on what specific features you’re looking for.  Generally speaking NEC SL1100 has everything NEC DSX has plus longer warranty period, but the initial programming/set-up is more involved.  We’ve outlined a few key differences below for quick reference along with additional resources.

NEC SL1100

NEC SL1100

  • More sophisticated solution available than DSX (desktop integration, multi-site networking, ACD etc)
  • Initial programming/set-up is more difficult – although they now offer set-up kits
  • Supports more IP technologies
  • Mobility options – remain reachable on the same number remotely
  • 5-year warranty

 

NEC DSX

NEC DSX

  • Great value & proven
  • Easier initial programming/set-up
  • Reliable small business system for one site
  • No advanced features available such as desktop integration, multi-site networking, or ACD
  • 2-year warranty

Additional Resources

Think about what you need in your business in evaluting which phone system to go with.  If you need any help, don’t hesistate to contact one of our helpful consultants here in determining which system is right for you!