First Look: CounterPath Bria Softphones for Apple, Android, and Windows

April 10, 2014 by Nathan Miloszewski

Bria 4.0 for Desktop - Windows Laptop

VoIP Supply is now offering another VoIP phone option with the CounterPath Bria Software as a Service (SaaS) for flexible desktop and mobile communications from the cloud.

What Is It?

CounterPath Bria is a softphone that can used on a variety of devices that will keep your remote and mobile workers connected to their business phones when they’re outside the office.

Currently VoIP Supply is offering Bria for:

  • Apple:  iPhone, iPad, and Mac Desktops
  • Android:  Smartphones and Tablets
  • Windows:  Desktop PCs

With Bria there is no additional hardware to buy, no installation costs, and no maintence.  Simply use your existing devices and CounterPath manages the communication network on the cloud.

Bria provides voice, video, instant messaging, presence, analytics and reports, plus the standard VoIP calling features you’re used to from your desktop phones.

Who Is It For?

Bria is a great solution for businesses that want to keep up with their employees on-the-go, offer a simple communication solution for remote workers and BYOD applications.

Your company’s VoIP phone system can be accessed with Bria from wherever you are on your device of choice so you don’t miss out on important customer calls and messages.

Pricing

Bria is available in 12 month, 24 month, and 36 month licences across all platforms and devices so prices vary:

  • Apple:  $26.99 to $163.99
  • Android:  $26.99 to $88.99
  • Windows:  $52.99 to $136.99

Availability

CounterPath Bria Softphone downloads are available right now. Click here to shop all CounterPath Bria options or call 800-398-8647 to speak with a friendly VoIP Engineer.

More from: VoIP Phones Nathan Miloszewski

First Look: Sangoma PBXcelerate

April 8, 2014 by Tom Costelloe

For many years Sangoma has been well known for making PCI cards that can be used inside IP PBX’s but had never made the crossover to being an IP PBX manufacturer. Their first foray into this market came in June 2012 when they released the Lync Express. Now, with the release of the new Sangoma PBXcelerate, they’re making further inroads into the PBX appliance manufacturer market and their first to the SIP and open source IP-PBX marketplace.

Sangoma PBXcelerate

What Is It?

The Sangoma PBXcelerate is a highly customizable IP PBX appliance designed for use in small to medium sized offices as well as branch offices.

The first of the customizable features of the PBXcelerate is the PBX software that is loaded or lack thereof. This Sangoma appliance comes out of the box as a blank slate that can be loaded with well-known  IP PBX software such as Asterisk, Elastix, FreePBX and others. Or if you would rather not have to load the software on yourself, the PBXcelerate can be shipped to you with the software of your choice already loaded on it for you.

The second customizable feature of the PBXcelerate is its port configuration. There are currently three standard port configurations available: SIP – no PSTN connectivity, Analog – 4 FXO + 1 FXS ports, and Digital 1 T1/E1 4 FXO + 1 FXS ports. This does not mean these are the only configurations available for the PBXcelerate. It features two ½ length PCI Express slots that can be used to create any combination of analog, digital, hybrid and GSM Sangoma cards that are required for a specific deployment.
Sangoma PBXcelerate Back
The rest of the hardware on the Sangoma PBXcelerate appliances are standard no matter which port configuration you choose:

  • Atom dual core 1.86 GHz
  • 2 GB RAM
  • 32 GB SSD (options for HDD and RAID 1)
  • Dual Ethernet ports
  • 60 W universal internal power supply
  • Rack mounting clips included

Who Is It For?

The PBXcelerate has been designed with the small to midsized offices or branch offices in mind. Depending on the ports configurations the suggested users and calls will vary:

SIP Trunking Configuration

  • Up to 100 users
  • Up to 30 active calls

Analog Configuration

  • Up to 20 users
  • Up to 8 active calls

Digital Configuration

  • Up to 100 users
  • Up to 30 active calls

If you choose to go with a custom port configuration the number of users and calls will vary.

In addition to end users looking to do their own install, the PBXcelerate will also be an attractive option to installers and integrators looking for a flexible appliance to use for their customers install.

Pricing

Sangoma PBXcelerate SIP Trunking – $1,195
Sangoma PBXcelerate Analog – $1,745
Sangoma PBXcelerate Digital – $2,195

Availability

All three configurations of the Sangoma PBXcelerate are available to ship today. You can shop on-line for Sangoma products on VoIPSupply.com or contact the VoIP Supply sales team at sales@voipsupply.com or by calling 1-866-582-8591.

Updated 4/16/2014 – The Sangoma PBXpress was renamed the Sangoma PBXcelerate. This change was in name only and did not change any of the features of the appliance.

More from: First Look Tom Costelloe

Free Switchvox User Training When You Buy Switchvox SMB Systems from VoIP Supply

March 28, 2014 by Nathan Miloszewski
Free Switchvox User Training when you buy a Switchvox SMB System or Software

Free Switchvox User Training when you buy a Switchvox SMB System or Software – Promotion Runs Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2013

UPDATE

This promotional combo ends on March 31, 2014.

Free Switchvox User Training Details

Now is a great time for small and medium businesses to step into a new Switchvox SMB Unified Communications (UC) solution.

We’re excited to offer free Switchvox User Training, valued at $995, with the purchase of the following Switchvox SMB appliances and software:

If you’re checking out online, it’s simple. Under “Options” just select the Switchvox User Training box to add it to your order at no charge.

“The Switchvox User Training is an online, self-paced two hour course that will teach anyone in your business the ins and outs of Switchvox, the Switchvox user web suite and GUI, the Switchboard, and Digium phones,” said Ben Sayers, CEO of VoIP Supply.

Every person in your company can use a single user training login to learn how to use and navigate a new Switchvox VoIP phone system which is more than just an office phone system and offers.

  • VoIP calling, faxing, instant messaging
  • The Switchboard, an interactive communications dashboard for each user
  • 3rd Party Integration with CRM platforms
  • Video, presence, conferencing
  • Detailed reporting

Switchvox system capabilities range from 30 or less users up to 600 users and 150 concurrent calls for a variety of work environments.

More from: VoIP Systems Nathan Miloszewski digium switchvox

First Look: Aastra 6865i 9-Line VoIP Phone

March 21, 2014 by Nathan Miloszewski

Aastra has just released their new Aastra 6800i Series that includes four VoIP phones models to serve a variety of users.  The 6800i Series offers Aastra’s best quality, features, and pricing to date with three key selling points:

  • Design:  A thin, modern, space saving design
  • Audio:  Enhanced HD audio for natural sounding calls even with the speakerphone
  • Power Consumption:  Environmentally and budget friendly power saving features

Our first look at the Aastra 6865i is the next level up from the 6863i base model in this range of phones.

What Is It?

The Aastra 6865i is a 9-line VoIP phone in a compact design that offers:

  • Display:  Easy to read 3.4″ LCD display with large fonts and soft white backlighting.
  • Audio:  Includes Aastra’s high definition Hi-Q™ audio technology for clear calls from the handset, headset, or speakerphone.
  • Connectivity:  Dual Gigabit Eithernet ports.
  • Flexibility:  XML capable, 8 programmable keys, and an innovative headset port that supports both DHSG/EHS and 4-pin connections – no additional adapters or cables are needed for wireless headsets.
  • Power Savings:  Uses efficient Power over Ethernet (PoE) Class 2, allows you to set up power management features, and is compatible with an optional energy efficient Level V AC Adapter
  • Accessories:  Wall-mount kit and two Expansion Module options with the color LCD, 28 key M685i Module and the cost efficient 16 key M680i Module.

Who Is It For?

The 6865i is a great choice for small to large business that need a versatile phone with multiple lines and headset options and for anyone who appreciates Aastra’s commitment to power saving features and use of recycled and biodegradable materials in their packaging materials.

Pricing

The 6865i is currently priced at under $155.00.

Availability

The 6863i has an estimated shipping date of April 2014. VoIP Supply is currently taking pre-orders.

Downloads

More from: First Look Nathan Miloszewski

First Look: Aastra 6863i 2-Line VoIP Phone

March 19, 2014 by Nathan Miloszewski

Aastra has just released their new Aastra 6800i Series that includes four VoIP phones models to serve a variety of users.  The 6800i Series offers Aastra’s best quality, features, and pricing to date with three key selling points:

  • Design:  A thin, modern, space saving design
  • Audio:  Enhanced HD audio for natural sounding calls even with the speakerphone
  • Power Consumption:  Environmentally and budget friendly power saving features

Our first look at the Aastra 6863i is the entry level model in this range of phones.

What Is It?

The Aastra 6863i is a dependable 2-line VoIP phone in a compact design that offers:

  • Display:  2.75″ monochrome LCD display
  • Audio:  Advanced audio processing from software, including Aastra’s high definition Hi-Q™ audio technology, and hardware, provide you with remarkably clear calls from either the handset or the speakerphone.
  • Connectivity:  Dual 10/100 BaseT Ethernet ports
  • Flexibility:  3 programmable keys
  • Power Savings:  Uses efficient Power over Ethernet (PoE) Class 1, allows you set up power management features, and is compatible with an optional energy efficient Level V AC Adapter
  • Accessories:  An optional wall-mount kit is available

Who Is It For?

The 6863i is ideal for common areas that need a basic phone, for workers who have low call volumes and don’t need many line appearances or have any use for advanced features, and for anyone who appreciates Aastra’s commitment to power saving features and using recycled and biodegradable materials in their packaging materials.

Pricing

The 6863i is value priced at under $100.

Availability

The 6863i has an estimated shipping date of April 2014. We are currently taking pre-orders.

Downloads

More from: First Look Nathan Miloszewski

First Look: Grandstream GXP2130

March 17, 2014 by Tom Costelloe

Grandstream GXP2130 First LookI’m starting to wonder if the off switch at the Grandstream new phone model assembly line is broken because today they announced another new VoIP phone with even more on the way. The newest model off the conveyor belt is the Grandstream GXP2130.

What is it?

Of the latest enterprise grade VoIP phones in the GXP series Grandstream GXP2130 is the entry level phone; although, entry doesn’t mean it is a stripped down phone. Quite to the contrary the GXP2130 has many of the same features as the GXP2140 and GXP2160 that were released at the end of last year. These similar features include a TFT Color LCD Display, dual gigabit RJ45 ports, support for PoE and EHS support with Plantronics headsets.

What separates the GXP2130 from the other models are some of the feature details and the specs. As an entry level phone the Grandstream GXP2130 has fewer line appearances (3), a smaller display (2.8″ (320×240)) and less programmable keys (12 in total).

Some of the key features and details of the GXP2130 include:
Grandstream GXP2130

  • 3 Line appearances
  • 4 programmable context-sensitive soft keys
  • 8 programmable BLF extension keys
  • Support for G.722 HD Voice
  • 2.8″ (320×240) TFT Color LCD Display
  • Dual Gigabit RJ45 Ports
  • Built-in auto sensing IEEE 802.3 af Power over Ethernet
  • Universal Power Supply Included
  • RJ9 headset port
  • Support for Electronic Hook Switch (EHS) with Plantronics Headsets
  • Grandstream GXP2130 Datasheet

Who is it For?

From looking at the specs of the GXP2130 I see a few different users who may find it as a good fit for their telephony needs. The first one that comes to mind is a sales or customer service rep. The multiple line features would give the user the ability to handle more than one call at a time. Another area where there may be a strong use case for this phone is in public spaces such as lobbies or hallways. The programmable keys could easily be programmed to ring departments or individuals.

Pricing

The MSRP for the Grandstream GXP2130 is $99

Availability

This new Grandstream VoIP phone is scheduled to ship from VoIP Supply in early April. You can shop on-line for Grandstream phones on VoIPSupply.com or contact the VoIP Supply sales team at sales@voipsupply.com or by calling 1-866-582-8591.

More from: First Look Tom Costelloe

VoIP Q & A: Cisco Intercom, WiFi Video Conferencing, and AT&T Small Business VoIP Systems

March 15, 2014 by Nathan Miloszewski

Questions about VoIP devices and services are regularly submitted to VoIPSupply.com through a technical support ticket or via the “Ask The Expert” tab on our product pages.

We respond to these requests directly but more often than not, this Q & A would be helpful for lots of other folks.

Below are your VoIP questions answered – Real questions from real people  just like you.

Cisco SPA303G

Cisco SPA303G 3-Line VoIP Phone

Q: I am a solo attorney. I have a support person who answers the phone for me. Does this phone have an intercom type feature that allows her to “buzz” me and let me know who’s calling?

A:  Yes, the SPA303G does have the intercom feature that you’re looking for.

This feature is called paging and it works like this:

Your IP phone can automatically answer pages from other Cisco IP phones in the office, if your phone administrator has enabled this feature. When your phone is paged, the phone emits a series of beeps, and two-way audio is established between your phone and the phone that called you. You do not have to accept the page.

For more information, go to Page 62 of the Cisco SPA303G User Guide.

Q:  Our facility in Texas needs to deliver digital instructions to a group of people via video conferencing system. The group has a common school house with electricity but no Internet.  They have wifi phone service however most do not have phones.  Most families do not have computers or power at home. How can we communicate and teach them remotely?  What solutions will we need at our facility and at the remote end?

A:  Sounds like you’re in quite the pickle there. There is a solution though, and one that applies to many things in life:

Keep It Simple!

Since the common school house has electricity and WiFi service just use something like mobile Google Hangouts which offers free video calls for face-to-face connections on a tablet, laptop, or even a cell phone on both ends of the connection. No need for a fancy video conferencing system here.

AT&T Syn248 Analog Gateway Phone System

AT&T Syn248 Analog Gateway Phone System

Q:  We are seeking to buy a system that supports VOIP gateways as our phones will run on high speed internet.  Will this system [AT&T Syn248 Analog Gateway Phone System] work for us?  If not, is there another to which you might direct us?

A:  Yes, the AT&T Syn248 Analog Gateway is a great entry-level small business phone system to get started with when switching over to VoIP.

The Syn248 can also be stacked with another Syn248 to add additional phone lines if you ever need to expand.

Just remember that the Syn248 analog gateway needs a AT&T Syn248 Desk Phone to operate because it’s a proprietary gateway that only works with the AT&T Syn248 Small Business Phone System. Configure your own AT&T system here:

Stay Tuned

Check back next time  for more VoIP Q & A.

Thanks for your questions!

More from: How To / Installations Nathan Miloszewski Cisco video conferencing Wi-Fi

New Grandstream Learning Webinar Series

March 8, 2014 by Nathan Miloszewski
Grandstream Learning Series

Grandstream Learning Series Hosted by VoIP Supply

VoIP Supply has teamed up with Grandstream to provide the Grandstream Learning Series for you to get a first-hand look at:

When, What, How

The Grandstream Learning Series starts in March 2014 and runs through June 2014. Each live webinar will run for an hour.

Attendees will get in depth looks at the devices and the solutions and have an opportunity to ask questions and get information on how to create a communication or surveillance solution customized for their business.

More from: How To / Installations Nathan Miloszewski Grandstream

Plantronics Wireless Headsets Promotion Going On Now

March 7, 2014 by Nathan Miloszewski

Plantronics Wireless Headsets are great. But if you think that they’d be more great if they came with free accessories and a rebate, then you are in luck.

Right now Plantronics is offering two great deals on two great headset series:

  • Plantronics CS500 XD Series:  With every of a CS500 Series headset get your choice of a free EHS Cable or Headset Lifter.
  • Plantronics Voyager Legend CS:  Get a $50 Rebate with each Voyager Legend.

About Plantronics CS500 XD Series

With up to 8.5 hours of talk time and a range of up to 350 feet, the CS500 XD Series gives you great mobility and multitasking capabilities.

The CS500 XD headsets are used with either an Electronic Hookswitch (EHS) Cable or Handset Lifter to remotely answer and end calls.

About Plantronics Voyager Legend CS

Voyager

The Plantronics Voyager Legend CS is a single, behind-the-ear wireless headset tested for comfort that’s designed for all day use because it will pair with both your desktop VoIP phone and cell phone.

This dual-purpose Voyager Legend CS gives you seven hours of talk time to keep you connected while you’re in the office and for when you’re leaving it.

More from: VoIP Hardware Nathan Miloszewski

The Difference Between H.264 and MxPEG

March 4, 2014 by Taylor Hamp

If you’ve been looking at a MOBOTIX solution, chances are you’ve noticed MOBOTIX cameras record in all the expected compression’s, and then in an extra compression: MxPEG. You may be asking yourself ‘What is this MxPEG? How does it compare to H.264?’ Let me help you out with that.

Video recorded in HDTV (1920 x 1080) is compressed in H.264. It was created for broadcasting high definition video, which is why nowadays it’s the most common video compression out there. While it’s ideal for bandwidth conservation, when paused on a frame, there is a fuzziness to the image. A minor inconvenience really. It’s usually acceptable, which is why most surveillance companies allow H.264 as one of their compression options, but MOBOTIX wasn’t satisfied.

As a surveillance company, MOBOTIX created their own video compression, MxPEG. Upon a vendor/company visit, MOBOTIX had MxPEG compressed video footage they demonstrated for us here at VoIP Supply, and when the footage was paused, the frame was crisp, clean, and clear. This screenshot conveys it perfectly: bees can flap their wings 250 times per second, and this shot was taken from a MOBOTIX camera using the video compression MxPEG.

Not the bees!

As you can see, it’s crystal clear. You can even see the wings perfectly. The reason for this is MxPEG uses what’s called an I-Frame for each frame. H.264 delivers I-Frames, but there are also P-Frames, which are slightly lower quality but more of them. That’s why when watching an HD video, H.264 is ideal because the human eye is only picking up the I-Frames, but when paused, those low quality P-Frames create that fuzziness. Try it out when you get home.

i Frame

So because each frame is an I-Frame and high quality, MxPEG would take up a lot of bandwidth, right? Not at all. MxPEG was created to only record the changing pixels. The static pixels are recorded in the first frames, but after that, the technology in the IP camera is smart enough to recognize the live image isn’t changing, so it conserves bandwidth. The MOBOTIX technology then recognizes when pixels change, such as a moving person or car, and it records only those pixels (tiles, as they’re referred to in the image below) and stores them away under MxPEG compression.

changing pixels

The nice thing about MxPEG is you can run the frame rate as low as 5 fps or even 1 fps and get exceptional images every time, rather than running the H.264 compression at 15 fps or 30 fps and gamble for a crisp image.

fast moving objects

Should the situation call for an NVR, Qnap supports MxPEG, but all MOBOTIX IP cameras work as a decentralized system, meaning they can view, process, analyze and record footage all within the camera itself. Depending on exactly what you need to record, everything might be entirely manageable within a MOBOTIX camera itself.

*Images courtesy of MOBOTIX

More from: IP Camera Features Taylor Hamp MOBOTIX