Your favorite place to get your VoIP news is back for 2024! Watch as we ring in the new year with new products from CyberData, Spectralink, and more!
Have you heard CyberData launched an InformaCast-enabled version of their Paging Amplifier? We were impressed with their exclusive Hybrid Paging Solution, but this has just taken it to the next level! Tune in to get all the details on this exciting new addition to the CyberData portfolio.
In addition to the exciting news from CyberData, we are excited to discuss Spectralink’s brand-new DECT Gateway! This new addition to Spectralink will allow organizations with legacy Spectralink solutions to connect to Spectralink’s scalable IP-DECT servers. Check out the video to get more information!
Also, in this month’s VoIP News Update, we wanted to let our viewers know we are attending ITEXPO this year. If you are joining or are planning on joining the event, stop by booth 732 to meet our team!
Are you currently using a legacy solution from Spectralink? Have you heard of the new InformaCast-enabled paging amplifier from CyberData? Let us know in the comments below!
In the world of education today, the safety and security of students and staff are of utmost importance. One crucial aspect often overlooked is the communication infrastructure, specifically the paging systems especially in educational institutions, where the safety and security of students and staff are of the utmost importance. Outdated traditional paging systems, with their limited capabilities and obsolete technology, may hinder emergency response efforts and compromise overall safety. However, by upgrading to modern IP paging systems, schools can significantly bolster security measures, enhance response time, and proactively prevent potential incidents.
Budget-Friendly Approach to Upgrading
With the passing of new federal and state mandates, educational institutions are being guided towards upgrading their school-wide systems, such as IP Paging and security to ensure the safety of staff and students. For example, laws such as Alyssa’s Law, require school districts to consider installing panic alarm systems. There are several grants available at the state and federal level to aid schools in completing these upgrades in a budget-friendly way. The U.S. Department of Education has provided a list here. Some other ideas for beginning the process of upgrading in cost-conscience ways are:
Start with a phased approach: Rather than upgrading the entire system at once, begin with critical areas or zones where the need for improved communication is most pressing.
Prioritize Key Features: Identify the most essential features you require out of your IP Paging or security systems. Popular brands like Algo Solutions and CyberData offer unique features on their products at a competitive price point, without unnecessary bells and whistles.
Take Advantage of Volume Discounts: While upgrading, inquire about bulk or volume discounts, particularly if you are upgrading a large space. Purchasing equipment in bulk can often result in significant cost savings.
Increased Security Measures
By upgrading to IP paging systems, schools can enhance their security measures with advanced features. These cutting-edge systems provide integrated security protocols, including encryption and authentication mechanisms, guaranteeing confidential and protected communication, free from unauthorized access. Moreover, IP paging systems seamlessly integrate with existing security systems, such as surveillance cameras and access control systems, creating a comprehensive security network that boosts situational awareness and maximizes threat detection capabilities.
Some examples of these devices include Door Phones, Call Buttons, and IP Cameras. All of these devices can be easily integrated into an IP Paging System in order to provide all-around coverage.
Improved Response Time
In times of emergency, every single moment matters. Outdated paging systems can face issues like delays and limited coverage, which can hinder critical announcements and slow down response efforts. Unlike IP paging systems which utilize the power of the internet to deliver real-time, superior-quality audio announcements across multiple areas simultaneously. With advanced features such as pre-recorded messages and automated alerts, administrators can swiftly share crucial information with the entire school or specific zones. This enables prompt response and effective coordination during emergencies.
Incident Prevention
With IP paging systems, administrators have the power to regularly broadcast vital announcements, safety reminders, and emergency procedures, cultivating a culture of preparedness and vigilance among students and staff. Additionally, the advanced features of scheduling and remote access allow administrators to streamline communication tasks, guaranteeing consistent delivery of critical messages and minimizing the risk of miscommunication and confusion.
Algo Solutions is one of the top brands in the IP Paging industry and published a Case Study called “Deploying Algo IP Solutions For The Education Vertical” with some great information regarding Ontario-Based School Districts and their challenges and how Algo helped.
CyberData, another top brand in the industry produces great content on their YouTube Channel entitled “CyberSchool.” In this video, CyberData reviews paging solutions specific to schools.
In today’s world, it is crucial for schools to prioritize security and preparedness. By upgrading to modern IP paging systems, schools can take a proactive approach to enhance school security, improve response time, and minimize potential incidents. Investing in advanced communication infrastructure not only embraces new technology but also creates a secure environment that fosters learning and growth. Let’s remember that when it comes to security, it is always better to be proactive rather than reactive. Updating IP paging systems is a vital step towards safeguarding the well-being of students, staff, and the entire school community.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below, chat with one of our experts at www.voipsupply.com, or call us at 1-800-395-8647.
SIP Chats is back with our first episode of 2024, and this time, we’re doing things a bit differently. Your host, Brian Hyrek, has an in-person chat with our Provisioning, Fulfillment, and Reclaim Operations Manager, Michael Rehac! Brian and Mike discuss the ins and outs of our Provisioning and Fulfillment department and focus on the specific services we offer our customers and resellers. Mike dives deep into offerings like custom branding, firmware updates, simple redirects, blind shipping, and much more!
So get comfy, hit that play button, and learn all about the VoIP Supply Provisioning and Fulfillment department and how it can help drive your business forward!
are you currently utilizing VoIP Supply Provisioning and Fulfillment? Let us know how it’s helped you and your business in the comments below!
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones are experiencing a significant surge in popularity in 2024. As businesses and individuals increasingly prioritize efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility, the advantages offered by VoIP phones are becoming more apparent. According an article from Technology Reseller News, “Regardless of your chosen communication model, whether it’s hybrid, on-site, or entirely work from home, your telephony remains the cornerstone of your communications system.” VoIP phones and the VoIP industry are continuing to skyrocket and here are some things to know for 2024.
One of the key factors driving the popularity of VoIP phones is the enhanced flexibility and mobility they offer. With the ability to make calls from anywhere with an internet connection, users are no longer confined to traditional landline systems. Whether you’re working remotely, on the move, or in the office, VoIP phones keep you seamlessly connected, making them increasingly appealing in 2024.
In most cases, cost optimization is a top priority concern for businesses and VoIP phones emerge as a cost-efficient alternative to traditional telephone systems. By leveraging lower infrastructure costs, reduced call rates, and the absence of additional hardware requirements, businesses can achieve significant savings without compromising on seamless communication. The economic benefits of VoIP play a pivotal role in its growing adoption across various industries.
A little-known fact about VoIP phones is their ability to realize that 50% of all voice conversations are silent. Think about it, when one person is talking, the other person is silent, listening to what they have to say. While you are silently listening, your phone does not have to be sending “voice data” information, because you are not talking. VoIP phone technology has been able to take advantage of this by utilizing “silence suppression.” VoIP phones will only send data when necessary and will not send anything if it detects silence or small amounts of background noise. Unlike traditional phones which constantly send data whether you are speaking or not, inevitably costing you more money.
One of the most exciting things about VoIP phones and technology in 2024 is its integration with Artificial Intelligence (AI), which we all know will only continue to grow. According to Technology Reseller News, “Almost 90% of companies participating in our research see the value in deploying Generative AI meeting assistants,” says Irwin Lazar, President and Principal Analyst, Metrigy.” VoIP Phones and systems were actually ahead of the game in the utilization of AI for quite some time and now that the whole world is actively using and developing more AI technology, VoIP will continue to trend upwards in this arena as well.
The year 2024 sees VoIP phones soaring in popularity, proving their unmatched ability to cater to the ever-changing needs of businesses and individuals alike. With their seamless blend of adaptability, affordability, cutting-edge features, integration capabilities, and technological advancements, VoIP phones are solidifying their position as the frontrunner in the realm of communication. As the demand for efficient and groundbreaking communication solutions continues to surge, VoIP phones are poised to maintain their impressive upward trajectory. VoIP Supply has a WIDE array of VoIP phones from many different manufacturers, brands, and types. We have our VoIP phone experts on standby ready to answer any questions you may have. If you have any comments or questions for us, please feel free to leave a comment below, chat with one of our VoIP experts at www.voipsupply.com, or call us at 1-800-398-8647.
Ambient noise compensation in a speaker, like the CyberData 011394 talk-back speaker, refers to a feature that allows the speaker system to adjust its output based on the surrounding ambient noise levels. This feature is designed to enhance communication clarity by automatically adapting the speaker’s volume to compensate for variations in background noise. The speaker listens to the room, takes what you set it at, and automatically adjusts the volume based on increased noise in the room.
Here are a few reasons why ambient noise compensation is a useful feature:
1. With this feature, you can prevent the speaker from being drowned out by background noise or becoming uncomfortably loud in quieter environments. It ensures that the speaker adapts to the specific acoustic conditions of its surroundings.
2. Ambient noise compensation is user-friendly as it eliminates the need for manual adjustments. Users don’t have to constantly monitor and modify the speaker volume based on changes in ambient noise levels.
3. This feature makes the speaker versatile and suitable for a range of environments, including outdoor spaces, busy offices, schools, or industrial settings. It adapts to the acoustic characteristics of the surroundings.
4. Most importantly, in certain applications, such as emergency communication systems or public announcements, having a speaker that can automatically adjust its volume based on ambient noise ensures that critical information can be heard even in challenging conditions. This is a perfect speaker for schools as increased security measures and emergency devices are being installed.
If you have any questions, please reach out to our VoIP experts at www.voipsupply.com or give us a call at 1-800-398-8647. For more on the 011394, feel free to watch our video here!
What better way to kick off 2024 than with a sneak peek into Fanvil‘s upcoming products? If you were not able to attend our What’s New With Fanvil Webinar, then you’ve come to the right place. Grab a seat and get comfortable as VoIP Supply’s Brian Hyrek teams up with Fanvil’s Tommy Lee to deliver an in-depth look into what Fanvil has in store for 2024!
What are you looking forward to the most from Fanvil? Let us know in the comments below!
Within the realm of today’s technology, there is one constant, one truth, one thing you know will never change. That is, things will ALWAYS change and change quickly. With the enormity of devices on the market sometimes it seems impossible to know which is the right one to choose for you and your business that will work with your chosen platforms. Do I get a Microsoft Teams-Certified Device? Do I get a Zoom-Certified Device? Do I even need a Platform-Certified Device?
Don’t worry, VoIP Supply is here to help. First, let’s define a Platform-Certified Device. A Platform-Certified Device is any device that has gone through an extensive amount of testing to determine if it meets a standard of performance set by a Unified Communications (UC) tool, such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, etc. These devices are tested rigorously to ensure they meet a certain standard of quality. Secondly, no, you do not need to use a Platform-Certified Device. However, utilizing a device that is specifically certified for use with a certain platform does mean that there is NO LIMIT to the functions or features that are available to you.
For example, if you are using a Microsoft Teams-Certified Device there is no additional provisioning required. Simply set all of your call and video preferences to automatically stay that way until you want to edit them, and no more connecting or reconnecting of devices every time you start a new meeting. An example of this is with a Microsoft Teams-Certified Headset, once it is connected and settings are configured, you will not have to reconfigure any settings and/or always reconnect your device when starting a new meeting. If you were using a generic headset, you would not be able to utilize these types of features and functionalities, wasting precious time rather than getting right down to business.
If you do choose to use certified devices for you or your business, VoIP Supply has created a user-friendly and easy-to-understand purchase experience on our website.
Microsoft Teams-Certified Devices can be found here.
Additionally, if you would like to Shop By the Service Provider you prefer, we have that too, right here!
At the end of the day, it is really up to you and your preference which type of device you would like to use. If it is not certified with your chosen platform you will be limited to only certain features and functionalities, which might work for you. However, for those who want to take advantage of every tool and feature these platforms have to offer within your devices, it may be best to choose a device that is certified.
If you have any comments or questions please do not hesitate to reach out to us! You can comment below, chat with one of our experts at www.voipsupply.com, or give us a ring at 1-800-398-8647.
Our last VoIP News Update of the year is out now! Tune in and get an exciting look at Linkvil by Fanvil’s new CA400 Video Conferencing Solution! This full-solution kit comes with a camera, speaker, and more! Watch the video to get all of the details on this exciting new release by Linkvil by Fanvil!
Also, for this episode, we will be discussing Patton‘s newest acquisition, Tone Commander! These military-grade IP phones are perfect for Government and military needs. But wait! There’s more! We will also cover the exciting news of the Tone Commander 7810 Series of phones becoming Zoom Phone Certified!
Have you heard of the Tone Commander brand? Do you have any experience using these high-quality phones? We want to know! Let us know in the comments below.
First, VoIP paging refers to the use of VoIP technology to broadcast audio messages or announcements over an IP network. This method of communication is commonly employed in environments where a mass notification or broadcasting system is needed, such as in large facilities, businesses, educational institutions, or manufacturing plants.
Next, in order to select the right products and solutions for your business needs, you will likely consider if the systems are scalable to the setting sizes you need, the flexibility of the devices offering various features, how well the devices integrate with other systems on premises such as cameras, how the devices will ultimately be controlled, how they will operate in emergency notification situations, and more.
Algo 8301 Paging Adapter & Scheduler: This Microsoft Teams-certified device serves as a versatile paging adapter, linking analog paging systems to VoIP in various environments. It includes a Scheduler for automated playback, an embedded calendaring feature for flexible event broadcasting, and a relay input for applications like emergency alarms or pre-recorded announcements, and more. The 8301 is a compliant 3rd party SIP endpoint, compatible with both hosted/cloud and premise-based VoIP systems.
CyberData 011233 SIP Paging Adapter: Serving as a VoIP endpoint, linking analog IP paging systems with SIP and Multicast-based audio sources, this Adapter is configurable to support two distinct SIP extensions. The first extension transmits audio from the caller’s handset to the analog output and the second extension, when activated, produces a bell audio, serving as a night ringer within a configured night ring group.
Advanced Network Devices Round Ceiling IP Speaker IPSCM-RME: This PoE loudspeaker is SIP-enabled and well-suited for classrooms, offices, hallways, and more. The ANetD IPSCM-RME is shipped as a single speaker, featuring a built-in web server, and offers comprehensive multicast and broadcast support. It uses a Cat5 or Cat6 cable for connectivity, its power input is PoE (IEEE802.3af) at 15.4 W or PoE+ (IEEE802.3at) at 30.0 W. Additionally, it features a single general-purpose input.
Algo 8180 SIP Audio Alerter (G2): A SIP Audio Alerter designed for IP Paging network devices, is Microsoft Teams-certified. Featuring a high-efficiency integrated amplifier and premium loudspeaker, it boasts up to 8 times the volume of a standard telephone speaker. Ideal for environments with variable noise levels such as warehouses, workshops, restaurants, and machine shops, the 8180 is a SIP-compliant PoE network audio device tailored for loud ring and voice paging applications, utilizing dual endpoints.
Snom PA1+ Public Address System: With this reliable SIP announcement and public address solution, a SIP PBX can be expanded into a broadcasting system, delivering HD audio announcements with a 6.5-watt high-performance amplifier, from any Snom SIP phone or playing background music in various spaces like rooms, corridors, and office floors. For even greater power, the system can be enhanced by connecting it to a PA system.
CyberData 011487 Multicast Wall Mount Speaker: This speaker offers a cost-effective Power-over-Ethernet (PoE 802.3af) and VoIP solution for public address needs. With a single Ethernet cable connection, it seamlessly integrates into your PoE network. This speaker is versatile, allowing installation in multiple environment types and the capability to play messages from any multicast source. The 011487 model is equipped to receive multicast messages and supports audio prioritization for up to 10 multicast paging groups.
Fanvil i52W SIP Indoor Station for Door Phone and Intercom: Featuring a 7-inch color screen, this Indoor Station provides users with a user-friendly experience. It simply integrates with alarms and smart security devices, offering HD Audio and Video communication capabilities. With built-in WiFi 2.4G, the i52W can be mounted on a wall or placed on a desk. There are five physical buttons for call management, unlocking doors, answering calls, navigating menus, or ending calls, along with video surveillance viewing.
VoIP Supply has everything you need to build the right IP paging system for your business. Here are a few great options that we find users are very satisfied with which you may want to consider learning more about:
VoIP paging provides an efficient, scalable, and cost-effective solution for broadcasting audio messages in various settings and VoIP Supply’s VoIP experts can help guide you through choosing the best products for your environments and needs.
Over the last few years, the VoIP Industry has made great strides in adapting products to become more accessible and easier to use for people with disabilities. This type of commitment to adaptive technology, like VoIP products, has opened new doors for people with disabilities. According to the Von Coalition, in their article, Connecting People With Disabilities to New Opportunity, “VoIP is an especially promising technology for the 54 million Americans with disabilities — able to provide new benefits not possible in today’s legacy phone network.”
The VoIP Industry has created numerous adaptations and features to make VoIP products more accessible and user-friendly for people with disabilities. Some of these include:
Text-to-Speech: Integration of TTS allows conversion of text into spoken words, aiding users with visual impairments. Conversely, STT translates spoken words into text, assisting those with hearing impairments.
Closed Captioning: VoIP platforms often offer closed captioning for video calls, making it easier for users with hearing disabilities to follow conversations.
Compatibility with Assistive Technologies: VoIP applications strive to be compatible with various assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnifiers, and voice recognition software, ensuring a seamless experience for users with diverse needs.
Customizable User Interfaces: Many VoIP products allow users to customize the user interface, adjusting font size, contrast, or color schemes to accommodate individuals with visual impairments.
Keyboard Shortcuts and Voice Commands: Incorporating keyboard shortcuts and voice commands provides alternative methods for control, benefiting users with mobility or dexterity challenges.
Real-Time Translation Services: Some VoIP platforms integrate real-time translation services, facilitating communication between users who speak different languages or have difficulty understanding certain accents.
Some of the top options for VoIP Phones that feature some of the above options are:
Cisco’s 8880 Series: IP phones with accessibility features, such as high-contrast screens, ergonomic designs, and compatibility with hearing aids. They also offer optional key expansion modules for additional customization.
Grandstream’s GXV3370: This phone includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, making it accessible for users with visual impairments. It supports video calls and has features like screen magnification.
Yealink’s SIP-T54W: VoIP phone with a backlit display, large buttons, and adjustable font size, catering to users with visual impairments. It also supports hearing aids.
HP/Poly’s VVX Series: This series includes a range of VoIP phones with accessible features. It offers high-quality audio, customizable settings, and options for expansion modules to enhance functionality.
Snom’s D735: An executive VoIP phone with a large color display and customizable function keys. It supports hearing aids and offers a user-friendly interface.
JPL Mono Headset: A professional headset that has been designed with an inductive coupler for compatibility with most hearing aids. The added accessibility and features on VoIP products for people with disabilities have made VoIP technology a top choice for many organizations and institutions to create inclusion and opportunities for everyone to thrive in various environments. These new adaptations do not only apply to VoIP phones but other VoIP technologies as well. If you have questions or comments please leave them below, give us a call at 1-800-398-8647, or visit us online at www.voipsupply.com.
