NEW Patton Academy: Obtain Patton Training and Certification Anywhere, Anytime!

August 1, 2017 by Ying-Hui Chen

No time to learn about Patton? That’s not an excuse anymore! Now you can get Patton training and certification anywhere, anytime at your own pace!patton-logo

Patton is now launching the new Patton Academy for their Partners to learn about Patton products and services and get hands-on practices online! Any Patton Partner can learn how to install, configure, and operate Patton SmartNode, Copperlink and other products based on the Trinity OS.

Get started and earn your Patton Certified Voice Professional (PCVP) and Patton Certified Voice Expert (PCVE) credential today! Enroll in course number one and order your training kit for the hands-on exercises here: https://www.patton.com/academy/

How to Lock and Unlock the Snom M85 Ruggedized DECT Phone

July 28, 2017 by Steve Lopian

It is hard to imagine a job that doesn’t need a phone. There are an endless amount of different and unique jobs our there, but I’m pretty sure every one of them, one way or another, needs a phone in some capacity of the business.

For this blog, I want to focus on the jobs that are not set in a cushy air conditioned office. Instead, I want to talk about the jobs that need wireless phones, or better yet, wireless VoIP phones.

What is the first job that comes to mind when you think of wireless phones? For me, I immediately thought of a construction job. Because construction can get messy, I would also have to assume that the wireless phones they are using are also ruggedized AND probably even DECT!

What kind of phone could cover all those bases? Well, I’m sure there are several. But for this blog, we are going to use the Snom M85 as an example. This is a wireless DECT phone that can take a beating and will last you a very long time. m85

Aside from this phone’s long range and nearly bulletproof casing, there is one weakness. This weakness is something that all phones have, their buttons. No matter how much of a beating this phone can take, if you press up against something or if you drop it down the stairs, you run the extreme risk of accidental use. Like….calling someone, paging someone, etc.

Luckily, the Snom M85 has you covered with its Automatic Keylock. This is a function that can take the frustration out of your day, and it is easy to manage.

How to Lock and Unlock the Snom M85 Ruggedized DECT Phone

If you would like to lock and unlock your phone manually every time, then all you have to do is:

  1. Press the star key and hold down for at least 3 seconds
  2. A lock symbol will appear in the top line of the display
  3. When pushing a button while locked, the keylock message will appear

See, that was easy! To unlock your M85 after it has been locked all you do is:

  1. Hold the star key down until the lock icon disappears
  2. The phone will then be unlocked and ready for use

That might be the easiest set of directions I have ever seen! But one more cool feature this phone has is the Automatic Keylock feature.

How to Use Automatic Keylock on the Snom M85


This will allow the phone to lock itself if it has not been used in a selected period of time. How do you set this? Again, simple! Just follow these easy steps:

  1. From the menu, select Security
  2. Then select Automatic keylock
  3. From there must select the number of second or minutes. Your choices are 15, 30, or 45 seconds, or 1 to 5 minutes. This will set the inactivity period before your phone locks itself
  4. Press the red End Call key until you return to the home screen

And that’s it! Depending on how long you selected, if your phone is not active, it will lock itself and prevent unwanted phone calls, leaving your phone off the hook, or draining the battery.

To unlock the phone after it has locked itself, just use the same manual steps and hold the star key until it unlocks.

Do you have a ruggedized wireless phone at work? Do you use the Snom M85? If not, what do you use? We want to know! Also, what How-To blogs would you like to see in the future? Let us know in the comments!

Can I Use Grandstream UCM6208 as a Backup for UCM6108?

July 26, 2017 by Ying-Hui Chen

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 previous Mom’s calling Q&A series, we have discussed: What is the Default Password for the Grandstream UCM6204? Today, we have more new real questions and answers from VoIP users just like you.  

Can I Use UCM6208 as a Backup for UCM6108?ucm6208

Q: I have a UCM6108 and I want a UCM6208 as a backup. Is it easy to clone the configuration from the UCM6108 and transfer it over?

A: Yes, this will work as long as both systems are on the same firmware versions. The backup configurations will restore.

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

Customer Service FAQ: How Do I Create an RMA

July 21, 2017 by Steve Lopian

Here at VoIP Supply, we know how important our customers are to the success of our business. That is why we ensure the best possible customer experience that we can deliver.

One of the things that can be a bit difficult to understand is the Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) process, in fact, it is one of the things we get asked the most when it comes to returns.

Since there are so many of you inquiring about the RMA process, and because it’s important, we decided to put this video together for you! Just follow these quick and easy steps and you will be on your way to creating an RMA in no time!

Note: A return merchandise authorization (RMA) is a part of the process of returning a product in order to receive a refund, replacement, or repair during the product’s warranty period. – from Google.

For more frequently asked questions click here! 

When Do You Need to Look at a Hosted VoIP Phone System

hosted-serviceWe work with a number of customers who are beginning to explore Hosted VoIP phone service. There are many benefits to having your phone system in the Cloud: technology remains fresh; you pay a smaller fee upfront; no ongoing maintenance fees and many more. There are several reasons why a Hosted VoIP System might be right for you.

 

Your Business is Expanding

Congratulations! The hard work of you and your staff have provided opportunities for growth. Whether you are adding employees or adding locations, a Hosted VoIP solution is best because you just add telephones. As long as you have a high-speed Internet connection, you can have service anywhere. Most of our Hosted VoIP partners can also provide a softphone that works on your computer and mobile phone.

 

You Want to Save Money

For many of our customers, they are able to secure significant savings by converting over to Hosted VoIP services. Hosted VoIP service can save you money over time from costly service calls, expensive upgrades, and pricey analog phone lines. Keep in mind that your network will need to support the Ethernet cabling that IP phones work on.

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Upgraded Capabilities

Many of our Hosted VoIP Service providers offer features and capabilities that historically are only available to Enterprise level organizations like Unified Communications, File Sync & Share, Conference Bridges, Call Center and Mobility applications. You pay for what you want and what you need only.

Let us know when you want to explore a Hosted VoIP service. Our CloudSpan MarketPlace provides a “one-stop” shop and our experienced professionals are here to help you decide what service provider might be the best fit for you. Call one of our experienced consultants at 1-800-398-8647 today for a free consultation or visit our site for more information about Hosted VoIP Service! Good luck with your search!

How to Reject Calls from a Contact on the Polycom VVX300

It is hard to imagine life without Caller ID. I know I am not alone when I say that I barely know anyone’s actual phone number anymore. Once they are added to my contact list, their name is all that matters.

These days, the same can be applied to your desk phone at work, with the power of VoIP technology, you are able to use your desk phone just like you would use your personal cell phone.

Most of the time, these phones have just about every feature your cell phone has, and in some cases, even more features! I have written past blogs about IP phones having cameras, recording video, and even custom ringtones in the past, so I know the possibilities are basically endless.

But because this is a basic blog that deals with the simplicity of VoIP, I am going to use the Polycom VVX300 as an example. This is an entry-level phone, it has nothing flashy about it, but it is packed with features!

vvx300

One of these features just happens to be a contact list. You are able to add phone numbers to your VVX300 phone book just like you would on your cell phone. And because we all have that one person who calls all the time, but we never want to answer, you can do more than just ignore the call like you would on your cell phone. You can have the VVX300 automatically reject the call!

How to Reject Calls from a Contact on the Polycom VVX300

To do this is simple. If you absolutely never want to take a call again from an annoying telemarketer, or say, an ex that keeps calling you at work? Then follow these easy steps!

  1. Select Directories from Home view, and select Contact Directory
  2. From your directory, use the up and down arrow keys to select the contact whose calls you want to reject, and press Info
  3. From the contact’s information screen, press Edit
  4. From the Edit Contacts screen, use the up and down arrow keys to select Auto Reject, and select Enabled, and then press Save

And, POOF! From now on, every time that contact calls your Polycom VVX300, the call will automatically go to Voicemail. The one thing this phone cannot do automatically delete your dreaded contacts Voicemails. You will have to do that manually.

Do you have a Polycom VVX300 on your desk? Do you use the Auto Reject feature? If so, who keeps bugging you? We want to know!

Register and Attend VoIP Supply Partner Program Webinars to Win a $200 Gift Certificate to VoIP Supply! (Event Ended)

July 20, 2017 by Ying-Hui Chen

The VoIP Supply Partner Program is designed to assist all of our valued partners who want to offer perfect telecommunications solutions to their clients. Whether you are looking for an opportunity to grow your business exponentially or to bring in additional income, we have the right resources to help you reach your goals!

To better assist our partners, VoIP Supply is hosting four Partner Program Webinars starting on August 16th, 2 pm. Join our webinar to explore our new partner portal and sign up to sell hosted VoIP through the CloudSpan MarketPlace! Reserve your seat now!

You will also have the chance to win a $200 Gift Certificate to VoIP Supply! Must register and attend to be eligible. One winner for each webinar. We will select the winner randomly and announce during each webinar. Don’t miss it!

We have one last partner program webinar left! Click to register for the last training session: (The Webinar has been ended!)

Why Attend the webinar?

  • Learn about additional offerings for your business, recurring revenue, and the multiple providers to choose from.
  • Get a quick overview of our new partner program portal where you will have access to marketing materials, training videos and much more.
  • Receive leads within your region when you sign up to sell service through VoIP Supply.
  • Your chance to win a $200 Gift Certificate to VoIP Supply!

 

Why Join our Partner Program?

  • No minimum commitment
  • No deal is too small or too large
  • One program, multiple providers
  • You are never alone!

Get everything you need for VoIP at VoIP Supply Partner Program! We hope to see you at the webinar(s)!

Yamaha YVC-1000MS USB Audio System is Now Skype for Business Certified!

July 19, 2017 by Ying-Hui Chen

Are you using Skype for Business? Good news! Yamaha announced that their YVC-1000MS UC Microphone & Speaker System has now been certified with Skype for Business. This certification will ensure a seamless interoperation with Skype for Business applications.SKYPE

The Yamaha YVC-1000 is the latest UC communications device from Yamaha. It provides the best quality and most realistic sound, with volume levels up to 95dB. It also provides the user with HVAD (Human Voice Activity Detection) capabilities by filtering out noise automatically and only allowing for the human voices to be heard.

The YVC-1000 supports diverse connectivity in multiple ways:yvc1000

  • USB to PC – to support web conferencing
  • Bluetooth to Smartphone – to support teleconferencing
  • Audio In/Out to the Video Conference System – to support video conferencing

We are so excited to see that the YVC-1000MS made another milestone to become a truly easy-to-use solution!

[Comparison Chart] Featured Refresh IP Phones: Polycom IP335, Polycom VVX500 and Yealink SIP-T24G

featured-refresh-products

Refresh by VoIP Supply offers businesses and residential VoIP users an affordable solution when purchasing VoIP equipment. With Refresh, you can get top of the line used IP Phones at the fraction of the cost of new ones. The phones are put through a meticulous 10 Step Refresh Process to make sure that the equipment works properly and looks great. To learn more about our Refresh process and to watch a video of this process in action in our warehouse, Click Here!

Check out our featured Refresh phones for this month!

Polycom IP335

The Polycom IP335 supports up to two lines and can be powered through Power over Ethernet (PoE). This entry-level phone also has wideband audio so that every call is clear. With noise and echo cancellation you’ll be heard loud and clear.

Polycom-SoundPoint-IP-335-small

 

  • Up to 2 lines with up to 2 calls per line
  • Polycom Acoustic Clarity Technology & HD Voice
  • 102 x 33-pixel graphical monochrome display
  • Integrated 802.3af PoE support (no need for extra cables!)
  • Dual 10/100 Ethernet ports
  • Dedicated RJ-9 headset port compatible with wideband HD headsets
  • Full-duplex speakerphone
  • XHTML micro-browser for Web applications

Polycom VVX500

The VVX500 is suitable for managers and employees who require more advanced features that facilitate multitasking and schedule-juggling. The VVX500 is an expandable office phone that integrates seamlessly with a wide range of UC environments. The VVX500 features built-in Web applications. It has a “My Info Portal,” that can display stocks, news weather and other streamed content directly on the screen display.

polycom-vvx500

  • 12 lines (registrations)
  • Gesture-based, multitouch-capable, capacitive touchscreen
  • 3.5-in TFT LCD display at QVGA (320×240 pixel) resolution, 4:3 aspect ratio
  • Streaming media video playback
  • Screensaver and digital picture frame mode
  • On-screen virtual keyboard
  • Voicemail and video mail support
  • Dual USB ports (2.0 compliant) for media and storage applications
  • HD Voice technology delivers life-like voice quality for each audio
  • Dedicated RJ9 Headset Port
  • Dual 10/100/1000 Ethernet port with PoE Support
  • Codec Support: G.711 (A-law and μ-law), G.729AB, G.722, G.722.1, G.722.1C

Yealink SIP-T42G

The Yealink T42G is a beautifully designed IP Phone with a sleek look and high-end performance. This Gigabit phone features Power over Ethernet (PoE) Gigabit connectivity. The T42G supports echo cancellation and full duplex audio so that every call is crystal clear. This is the perfect phone for any size business or employee.

yealink-t42g

  • Up to 12 SIP accounts
  • Optima HD voice
  • Dual-port Gigabit Ethernet
  • 2.7″ 192×64-pixel graphical LCD with backlight
  • Paper label free design
  • PoE support
  • RJ9 Headset Port, Headset, EHS support
  • Integrated stand with 2 adjustable angles
  • Full-duplex hands-free speakerphone
  • Wall mountable

For more Refresh phones, check out the Refresh Phones page. If you would like to learn more about Refresh or have questions for one of our VoIP Experts, give us a call at 1-800-398-8647!

refreshed-voip-equipment_1-png-pagespeed-ce-ybnvqxrys6

The VoIP Addict’s Guide – SD-WAN, and You.

July 17, 2017 by Marc Spehalski

I’ll admit it. The term “Software Defined” or “SD” is as big a buzz phrase as “The Cloud.” I’m not a huge fan of buzz nomenclature, but sometimes it is the best way to describe a concept in a familiar way, especially when discussing technology. If I were playing devil’s advocate, I’d ask: Isn’t everything software defined? Yes, mostly it is, but when you say SD, or SDN (software defined networking), you imply a new iteration of conventional thinking. A new way of doing things, a more flexible, better way.
network-image
No longer are we bound to the holy gospel of Cisco, or dedicated internet circuits. We can do things with more intelligent, dynamic, and overall thoughtful methods. Gone will be the days of individually configuring routers and switches because they will all be centrally managed and monitored. Yes, Cisco already participates in SDN, but I’d argue that it’s not always affordable for the average SMB.

Software Defined WAN (SD-WAN) is a concept of centrally connecting and managing multiple sites or branches using a variety of internet connections. For example: DOCSIS (cable modem), 3G/4G, or line of sight wireless. The internet is to reduce dependency on technologies like multi-protocol label switching, which traditionally required leased lines from the same provider. If you’ve had to purchase one, you know that leased/dedicated lines are expensive. You can use SD-WAN to augment an existing MPLS connection or discard it all together which will generate significant savings for your business.

SD-WAN (also referred to as vMPLS) is a feature on services like SimpleWan and can be utilized on their cloud based controller. When you purchase a firewall from them and a subscription to their service, you achieve a single sight picture of your entire network regardless of how many branches you have. Also, I’d like to re-emphasize that SimpleWan, and subsequently SD-WAN is carrier agnostic. So, it does not matter if you have multiple locations from one end of town to the other, or from New York, to Beijing. As long as the devices can connect to SimpleWan, you have a singular infrastructure with potentially very diverse internet connection methods.

security-imageYou might be thinking: Why not just use VPNs? Well, you are, but with SD-WAN you’re using a variety of technologies that perform the configuration for you, and establish redundant meshed paths that can decide which direction to send traffic based on bandwidth. Like I said before, SD is a new iteration of the conventional.

What does any of this have to do with VoIP? Well, if you’ve read ANYTHING regarding SIP and NAT, you’ve found out they don’t traditionally get along. Leveraging SD-WAN allows you to bypass any NAT traversal increasing your success with two-way audio. A SIP phone is much happier when it can talk to another local IP and the other end. I’d also be remiss in not mentioning that Quality of Service (QoS) in an integral part of SD-WAN which can prioritize voice and video applications.

Give SD-WAN (from SimpleWan) a chance if you’re considering cutting the cord from your expensive MPLS circuits. As always, thanks for reading and happy VoIPing!

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