Facebook Messenger Adds VoIP Video Calls
This feature will be offered free of charge and joins contenders like FaceTime, Skype, and Google Hangouts. With so many different options, which will you choose?
How It Works
If you are in the regions where video calling is now available (Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Denmark, France, Greece, Ireland, Laos, Lithuania, Mexico, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, the United Kingdom, the U.S., Uruguay), simply open the Messenger app and choose an individual chat. If this person can be called, when you open the chat you will see a video camera icon in the top right corner. Tap this to call, and when the person accepts, the video call will open with the front facing camera. You will be able to switch between front and back facing camera during the call.
Messenger will automatically adjust the video and call quality accordingly, as well as alert you if your connection weakens to the point where the call can no longer maintain connection. Messenger also allows one person to turn off their video feed to improve the other person’s video quality. For example, if your friend is travelling and attempting to show you the scenery, you may turn off the camera and give your friend more bandwidth so that their picture quality is clearer.
This service is offered free of charge on Facebook’s end, however, your standard data usage rates apply. These charges can be avoided if calls are made over Wi-Fi connections. Also, video calling is only available through the mobile app, and not on desktops/PCs (for now).
While it is still in its early stages, Facebook has plans of rolling out more features such as group video calling and video stabilization. They want to take their time and see how consumers respond to this new feature. Depending on the response, Facebook will move forward accordingly.
What do you think about VoIP video calling through the Facebook Messenger app? Have you tried it yet? Let us know! Find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Visit Startechtel.com for a wide selection of new and refurbished business phones, phone systems, and equipment. You can also speak with us directly at 1-800-564-8045. Our office hours are Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm.
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Celebrate National Telephone Day With A Free Phone!
We’re counting down to Telephone Day with a special sale just for you! From April 20-27, when you shop with Startechtel.com and buy three phones, you’ll get the fourth phone FREE (of equal of lesser value). Shop our selection of new and refurbished phones from leading manufacturers like Avaya, NEC, Cisco, Nortel, Mitel, Panasonic, and more.
Shop online at Startechtel.com and be sure to mention the promotion in the Order Comments Box before checking out. Place your order over the phone by calling us at 1-800-564-8045 and don’t forget to mention the promotion to receive the discount. This offer is limited to one per customer, based on website pricing only, and may not be combined with any other offers. We’re disconnecting this special on April 27, 2015, so shop now!
Order over the phone at 1-800-564-8045, visit us online at Startechtel.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest!
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How To Place A Conference Call On The Intertel Axxess 550.4500 Phone
Do you own an Intertel Axxess 550.4500 phone? If so, do you know how to place a conference call on your phone? If the answer is no, Startechtel.com is here to help. Our latest tutorial video will take you through the steps of placing a conference call on your Intertel Axxess 550.4500 phone.
Before we begin, you will want to locate the Conference button, usually labeled [CNF], as it is pertinent to our demonstration.
We can begin with the first call. While on the line with the first party, press the [CNF] button or the CNF menu key to place the party on hold. Place the next call, and once that party is on the line, press either the flashing [CNF] button or the CNF menu key to place them on hold, also. You may repeat this step to add another line to the conference, up to three additional parties. When you are ready to join all the calls, press the flashing [CNF] button or the CONNECT TO CONFERENCE menu key.
Now that you’re on the conference call, here are a few helpful functions:
Hold
To place the conference call on hold, simply press the HOLD button. This will place all the parties on hold while still connected. To return to the conference, press the flashing [CNF] button.
Drop Out
To drop out of a conference means that you will exit the call while the other parties remain connected. To do this, press the flashing [CNF] button and then hang up.
Add Additional Parties
If you have begun a conference call and find that you need to add more parties, you can do so by pressing the ADD PARTY menu key. Dial the phone number and once you are connected with the party, press the solidly lit [CNF] button twice, or press the [CNF] button once, then press CONNECT TO CONFERENCE, to rejoin the conference with the additional party.
End
This next step will end the conference call, but each party will be put on an individual hold. First, press the flashing [CNF] button then press HOLD. To speak to each line directly, either press HOLD or a flashing key.
Mute
If you want to listen to the call, but not be heard, you can mute your microphone. Simply press the [MUTE] button or the Mute menu key. Just remember to unmute when you need to speak.
Transfer
To transfer the conference to another extension or voice mail, press [TRANSFER] or the TRANSFER CNF menu key and dial the desired extension number. When you are ready to complete the transfer, just hang up.
If you have any questions, please call us at 1-800-564-8045 Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm. You can also visit us online at Startchtel.com and browse our stock of new and refurbished business phone systems and equipment. Don’t miss our next tutorial by subscribing to our YouTube channel. You may also find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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VoIP Telephony Popularity
Communication is essential. There’s a reason we still utilize phones, whether mobile or landlines. Phones enable us to remain connected and available for various reasons. Each business uses its phone system differently, from strictly mobile businesses with employees on the go, to businesses operating solely from a main office. Whatever the use, it’s clear that a solid system for communications is necessary for success.
Our phone systems have changed rather drastically over time. While some offices still maintain analog phone systems, many have upgraded to VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) systems. VoIP is now a popular and common choice when it comes to phone systems, but that wasn’t always the case.
It took some time for telephony to break through and be widely accepted. A major change came when the Internet came into play, for what we know more commonly as VoIP. In its early stages, problems plagued the technology, making its cons outweigh the pros and leaving many hesitant to adopt the system. However, as improvements were made, VoIP became more attractive.
After its makeover, VoIP systems gained a popular following with startups and small businesses. Reasons for this include its low monthly cost. These young companies don’t have to commit loads of money upfront, instead, they can pay monthly for what they need, and expand or downsize as needed.
The flexibility of the system allows employees more freedom, thus enticing them to stay with the company. Thanks to VoIP, employees can work remotely from home with their own devices. Or if any employee needs to travel and work simultaneously, the system allows for configuring and routing calls as necessary, no need for any outside help.
Another benefit of employing a VoIP system is the myriad of special features you can access or add for your convenience. You can essentially build your dream telephony system, equipped with all the features you want and need.
Do you employ a VoIP system? What do you love or hate about it? Share your thoughts and opinions with us – Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
For your telecom needs, visit www.Startechtel.com and browse our selection of new and refurbished business phones, phone systems, and equipment. Call 1-800-564-8045 to speak with our knowledgeable representatives Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm.
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How To Program The Memory Keys On The Nortel M7208 Phone
Need help programming the memory keys on your Nortel M7208 phone? Our step-by-step tutorial video will easily guide you through the steps to complete this task.
To clarify, the memory buttons on the Nortel M7208 phone are the buttons with indicators that are not otherwise designated as hands free buttons or line buttons. These buttons can be programmed (and reprogrammed) to store phone numbers, feature codes, for one touch dialing, or feature activation.
To begin, while you’re on a call or an open line with a dial tone, press either the Hold button [␣] or the Release button [Rls]. Both buttons are labeled accordingly, and are located just above the key pad.
The next steps will depend on what you would like to do.
External AutoDial
Press the Feature button [Feature] – Asterisk [*] – One [1], then select the desired memory button. Next, enter the phone number and label the button accordingly to avoid confusion.
Internal AutoDial
Press the Feature button [Feature] – Asterisk [*] – Two [2], then select the desired memory button. Next, enter the phone number and label the button accordingly to avoid confusion.
Features
Press the Feature button [Feature] – Asterisk [*] – Three [3], then select the desired memory button. Next, press the Feature button [Feature], followed by the desired code. Lastly, label the button to avoid confusion.
Check Function
To check a memory button’s function, press the Feature button [Feature] – Asterisk [*] – Zero [0].
Delete Button
Follow the first steps mentioned above, then press the Feature button [Feature] – Asterisk [*] – One [1]. Press the memory button you would like to erase, and then press the Hold button [␣] to erase.
To reprogram a memory button, follow the aforementioned steps accordingly.
It’s as simple as that. If you have any questions for us, please give us a call at 1-800-564-8045. Or you can visit us online at Startechtel.com and browse our selection of business phones, phone systems, and more. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for helpful tutorial videos and connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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Should You Let Someone Else Manage Your Phone System?
Starting a small business with an on-site business phone system is fairly practical considering budget and needs at start up. But once your business starts to grow and expand, you may consider switching to hosted services. Here’s why.
Systems Are Complicated
It may sound appealing to learn how to manage, upgrade, and maintain your own phone system rather than having to call a technician whenever you come across a problem or hiccup. However, these courses can be time consuming and dense. While the courses can range from one day to up to a week of training, the hands on experience can be lacking. Don’t get us wrong, managing your own system is feasible, but it might we easier and more convenient to have someone else manage your telephony.
On-Site Vs. Cloud
If your business is contained to one office, and has no immediate plans for expansion, an on-site system could work for you. However, managing your system off site, or in the cloud, could provide more benefits. You get virtually the same standard features, but cloud services offer a bit more edge. If you have more than one office, or plan on expanding in the future, a cloud service could easily control different branches remotely, and expanding your system becomes less complicated.
Own Or Rent?
Purchasing equipment can diminish your budget quickly, and equipment will eventually become outdated and decrease in value. If you’re planning on managing your phone system and equipment in house and on your own, by all means, investing in a quality phone system is a smart move. But if you’re not looking for a big commitment, why not rent a phone system as an ongoing service with an affordable monthly fee?
When it comes to phone systems, you have plenty of options. The hard part comes down to deciding what is best for you and your business. What works for you? Share with your insight with your peers and us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, or Pinterest.
If you need help deciding on a phone system, visit Startechtel.com. Shop our stock of the best new and refurbished business phones, phone systems, and equipment. Or you can speak to a representative directly Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm by calling us at 1-800-564-8045.
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Why You Should Invest In A Business Phone System
It’s true – as our means of communication evolve, companies should take advantage of all the different outlets to reach their customers. However, the phone call is still a driving force when it comes to businesses and should not be abandoned.
A phone system can be a great benefit to your business. Whether you go with a traditional phone system or a VoIP phone system, you’ll reap the benefits with features like voicemail, call forwarding or internal transferring, conference calls, intercom, and more.
A traditional phone system consists of either individual phone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX) system. The PBX system helps to integrate the office, however, with more advanced features comes a higher price.
A somewhat more affordable option is a VoIP system. Your costs include your equipment plus a relatively low monthly fee. Paying monthly makes a VoIP phone system much more flexible, and most providers price based on the number of lines you employ.
Phone systems have done a great job of keeping up with consumer demands, offering great mobility, portability, flexibility, and practicality for employees. Workers can now have calls forwarded to their smart phones, as well as make calls from their personal smart phone under the company phone number, making it easier to work and travel. Easy access to your phone system dashboard allows you to control and adjust the way your system works as often as you please.
With such excellent and convenient features that incorporate your personal devices, there’s no doubt that businesses can still benefit from phone systems. If you need help finding the right system for you, please visit Startechtel.com or give us a call at 1-800-564-8045 and we’ll be more than happy to help. You may also find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest for special news, updates, promotions, and more.
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How To Change The Call Screening Transfer Method On The Intertel Axxess 550.8520 Phone
Changing the call screening transfer method on the Intertel Axxess 550.8520 phone may seem like a complicated task if you don’t know how to do it. Lucky for you, Startechtel.com breaks down the process into an easy, step-by-step video tutorial just for you.
First of all, the Call Screening feature must be enabled for your mailbox for this to work. To determine whether or not this feature is enabled, please check with your System Administrator before beginning.
It is important to understand the three types of transfer methods available. Transferred calls from voicemail may be unannounced (usually the default method), “Announce Only” or “Screened”. “Announce Only” allows callers to record their name. You will then hear the message “You have a call from” followed by the recorded name. The “Screened” method works the same way, however, at the end of the message, you have the option of accepting or rejecting the calls.
The first step in changing the call screening transfer method is to access your mailbox. You may either pick up the handset or use the speakerphone and dial your extension number. During or after you hear the greeting/main menu recording, press the asterisk (*) to identify yourself as a subscriber, followed by your mailbox number and password, and lastly, the pound sign (#).
Next, press 4 to select the Personal Options Menu. Then press 9 for More Options (If you’re using version 5.0 or earlier software, you may skip this step). Next, press 5 to find out what your current setting is for the transfer method.
To change the transfer method to Unannounced Transfers, press 1. To change the transfer method to Screened Transfers, press 2. To change the transfer method to “Announce Only” Transfers, press 3. If you do not wish to make any changes, press the asterisk (*) to return to the Personal Options Menu. You may hang up once the appropriate changes have been made.
And you’re all done. If you have any questions, please call us at 1-800-564-8045 or visit us online at Startchtel.com. Visit our YouTube channel to view our helpful tutorials and to subscribe. You may also find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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Telecom Terms Simplified
When shopping for new telephone equipment, it can be hard to keep up with all the new terms and acronyms. Considering that many are transitioning from analog systems to VoIP phone systems, some may be wondering what VoIP really is and whether or not they really need it. We’ll go over some common terminology to make your shopping experience a bit easier.
Voice over IP (VOIP)
VoIP is technology that allows voice to be transmitted over the Internet. Voice is converted into digital data and organized into small packets, which then are marked with a destination IP address and routed over the Internet. It is reconverted back to voice when it reaches its destination.
IP
IP stands for Internet Protocol, and is technically the network layer protocol in the TCP/IP communications protocol suite. More simply put, IP defines the way the data packets, or datagrams, travel. It works similarly to the way you follow the GPS navigation in the sense that you have a destination and it directs you there.
Kbps
Kbps = kilobits per second. Kbps indicates transfer speed. For example, if the modem speed is 1 Kbps, it can transfer data at the speed of 1 thousand bits per second. The Kbps of your router and modem will determine the call quality of your office.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth is the volume of data that can travel over a communication line in a fixed amount of time. For digital devices, it is expressed in bps (bytes per second), while analog devices use Hertz (Hz) for cycles per second. The bandwidth determines whether a system can handle VoIP services or not.
SIP/SIP Phone
SIP, or Session Initiation Protocol, is an IP telephony signaling protocol. An SIP Phone is a phone that uses SIP to complete voice calls over the Internet. Not all phones are SIP-enabled, so it is wise to inquire about support or suggestions for SIP phones.
Softphone
This is software which basically turns your PC into a phone, using VoIP technology to make voice calls over the Internet. Audio is enabled through a microphone and speakers plugged into a sound card. Ideal for traveling situations, this software allows you to make phone calls with your laptop with just a headset.
PBX (private branch exchange)
This is a telephone switching system that interconnects telephone extensions to each other both in-house and outside of the network.
Hosted PBX
A Hosted PBX eliminates on-premise equipment by hosting the equipment in remote data centers and providing management through a web interface. Much like Software as a Service (SAAS), a Hosted PBX makes systems easier to manage.
DID (Direct Inward Dialing)
This provides a block of numbers for calling into a company’s PBX system. This allows clients or customers to call a direct phone number for each employee without requiring a physical line into the PBX for every possible connection. This ultimately eliminates the need for a switchboard operator, allowing calls to go through faster and providing customers a more personable experience.
Still confused? Let our staff clear some things up for you. Give us a call Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm at 1-800-564-8045. Or you can visit us online at Startechtel.com, where you’ll find our great stock of new and refurbished business phones, phone systems, and equipment. You can also find us online on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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How To Transfer Calls On The Toshiba DKT-2020SD Phone
Not sure how to transfer calls on your Toshiba DKT-2020SD phone? Check out our tutorial for step-by-step assistance.
If you’re on a call and you need to transfer the caller to a different person, press the Conference/Transfer button while you’re on the call. You’ll find the Conference/Transfer button located below the keypad amid other fixed function buttons, and it will be labeled Cnf/Trn. After you’ve pressed that button, your line LED should flash green and you should hear an internal dial tone. You can then dial the extension to which you’d like to transfer the call. To announce the call, you may stay on the line, or to “blind transfer” you may simply hang up.
If the privacy option has been disabled on your Toshiba DKT-2020SD phone, and you use a Line button to transfer the call, the LED will flash a red light until the receiving party picks up. While the light is flashing, you may press the Line button to return to the call. When the party answers the line, the LED will turn solid red and you will not longer be able to connect to the original caller.
You can also connect all three parties during the call transfer by pressing your flashing extension button or the Cnf/Trn button. If the voice mail comes on, you may leave a message or you may hang up so that the caller may leave a message. A long single tone means that you may announce the call over the called person’s telephone speaker.
Transferring a call with camp on is also an option. This simply means that if the station to which you want to transfer a call is busy, you may hang up and the transferred trunk or station will be camped on to the busy destination.
For transferring a call directly to voicemail, press the Cnf/Trn button while on the active call. Then enter #407 followed by the voicemail number, which is usually the same as the extension number, and finish by pressing #. The caller is then connected to the voice mail and you may hang up.
Any questions? Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-564-8045 or visit us online at Startechtel.com. You can watch this video, and our other tutorials, any time on our YouTube page. Hit subscribe and never miss a tutorial again! We’re also on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, & Pinterest.
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