WiFi Versus Cellular Networks – Which Will Prevail?
As phones are being used more for web browsing and streaming, service providers like Verizon and AT&T have placed more importance on incremental data plans for users. Users’ increased data consumption allowed service providers to raise costs as well as create speedy mobile networks to attract more customers.
Consumers have found creative ways to combat these fees and lower data usage by choosing what devices they use for different functions based on WiFi availability. Connecting to WiFi when available helps to decrease data usage, but at the same time, can drain phone batteries searching for nearby networks. For consumers, if it’s not one thing, it’s another.
Yet technology keeps advancing, providing supplemental battery power and free WiFi in various public places. As more WiFi routers are installed, service providers have looked to pushing more data heavy devices. But will consumers buy into it?
How does the price of data plans and overage charges affect your service provider choice? How do you think WiFi accessibility will change over time and what could that mean for service providers? Share your thoughts, experiences, and predictions with us. Find and connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and we’re finally on Pinterest!
Find excellent networking equipment, business phones, phone systems and more when you visit StarTechTel.com. Browse our inventory online or speak directly with our sales representatives at 1-800-564-8045. Our offices are open from 7:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday.
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Phonio Connects Celebrities With Fans In A More Genuine Way
Phonio is bringing back the value of a phone call. Launched last month, Phonio allows for exclusive audio content from influencers via a mobile phone call. As a society that craves access to all things exclusive, Phonio could deliver just that, while bringing new life to the phone call, albeit, one-way.
So how exactly does work? The celebrities involved can span from musicians, athletes, brands, and more. Those involved with the project will post their unique Phonio numbers on social media. All you have to do is call that number, listen to the recorded message, and proceed through the menu accordingly. You should receive your first call within a day or two. There’s no need to download an app – it’s all based on phone calls. Because of this, standard data and message rates may apply. The content of the calls is ultimately up to the celebrity, and calls can come in at any time, day or night. There is also no limit to how many Phonio users you subscribe to, just be sure to save their Phonio numbers so you can identify who is calling you.
The first influencers involved were Lil Wayne and friends from Young Money Entertainment, the Sacramento Kings basketball team, non-profit NextGen Climate, musician and actor Drake Bell, and musician Chris Daughtry. In fact, one of Daughtry’s first calls featured him singing a raw “Take Me to Church” cover, originally by Hozier.
The possibilities of what these calls contain are endless. As a relatively free service, it seems worth checking out. Would you sign up? Which celebrities, musicians, or athletes would you like to see become a Phonio VIP? We want to hear from you. Find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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Choosing The Best Conference Phone
Conference phones can save time and money. Instead of travelling to meet in one place, meetings can be conducted from the convenience of each person’s respective office or building. Travel costs are eliminated, and with proper planning and time management, meetings are executed by the dial of a few numbers.
Conference phones are made to accommodate however large or small your conference calls maybe. More advanced phones or supplications can even incorporate video, text or computers to enhance the conference call experience.
At Startechtel.com, we carry a wide variety of new and refurbished conference phones. With leading manufacturers, the convenient features and call capacity range greatly. Some of our top sellers include the following:
Polycom 2200-17910-001 VoiceStation 300 Conference Phone
Polycom is known for their exceptional conferencing solutions, and the Polycom VoiceStation 300 conference phone does not disappoint. The audio performance is outstanding, providing great voice quality and acoustic clarity technology. Best suited for smaller conference rooms, the Polycom Voicestation 300 has a microphone range of up to 7 feet and dynamic noise reduction (up to 6 dB). Elegant design and user friendly, this conference phone is great for desktops and small offices. For more information, visit us online or give us a call.
Cisco 7936 Unified IP Conference Station (Refurbished)
The well-known Cisco Unified IP phones deliver excellent features and quality design. As expected, the Cisco 7936 Unified IP conference station is a wonderful feature-rich, IP-based, hands free conference phone, great for small to medium sized businesses. The call quality of this conference station provides the closest thing to natural person-to-person conversation. The backlit display offers call information conveniently, while soft keys and menu navigation keys provide ease of use. Visit us online or give us a call for more information.
Nortel NTEX11BA70E6 IP 2033 Audio Conference Phone with PoE Module & 2 Extension Microphones
Over the years, Nortel has built a strong reputation of reliable, convenient, and advanced products. The Nortel IP 2033 Audio Conference Phone with PoE Module & 2 Extension Microphones provides a comprehensive conference system, suited for small to medium sized conference rooms, yet equipped for expansion. This conference phone offers 360 degree room coverage, along with a 3×24 backlit LCD screen and ten fixed keys with three soft label keys. These features make this conference phone easy to use and navigate. Contact us for more information.
Find the conference phone best suited for your business online at Startechtel.com. Feel free to call us with any questions or concerns you have. You can reach us at 1-800-564-8045 Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm – We’re happy to help.
Don’t forget to connect with us on our social media sites. Find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and now Pinterest!
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Hands Free Driving Just As Dangerous As Distracted Driving?
A recent study from AAA and the University of Utah shows that making a hands free call can be more distracting than picking up your phone. Special test vehicles, heart rate monitors and other equipment helped to simulate the automotive experience while measuring how much mental distraction was produced by using in vehicle hands free phone systems.
Of the six systems tested, 4 scored as more mentally distracting than a handheld cell phone. Often times, the system may improperly hear a command, sometimes forcing the system to start from the beginning or initiating the wrong command (ex. Calling the wrong contact). It was reported that these complications seemed to interfere with the helpfulness of these systems. Which poses the questions, until these hands free systems become simpler and more intuitive, are they worth it?
Does your car have a voice command or hands free system? Do you find that it helps you stay focused on driving safely, or it is just as, if not more, distracting and dangerous as using a handheld phone? We would love to hear you weigh in on this topic – find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and now Pinterest to share your thoughts.
Visit Startechtel.com for all your telecom needs. If you have any questions or wish to speak to someone, you can live chat with our staff online or call us directly at 1-800-564-8045.
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Corded Landline Phone With Caller ID For As Low As $9!

Pacific Bell has a rich history. Currently owned by AT&T, Pacific Bell has always been dedicated to quality products and service. As one of the first major telephone companies, Pacific Bell built a strong reputation among many.
The Pacific Bell CT15 is a corded display phone, boasting helpful features such as call waiting and caller ID. The display offers information such as date, time, and caller ID clearly and conveniently. Visibly labeled button, as well as programmable keys with blank labels, allow for a user friendly interface with shortcuts. Call waiting allows you to seamlessly switch from callers, assuring you don’t miss an important call. And with a wall mount bracket included, your Pacific Bell CT15 corded phone can easily transform into a wall phone.
You won’t find another phone with an attractive and functional design, excellent versatility, and essential features for such a low price. Be sure to pick up our Pacific Bell CT15 corded phone with caller ID & call waiting before we run out! The more you buy, the more you save!
You can reach us by phone at 1-800-564-8045 during business hours (M-F 7am-5pm), or visit us online 24/7 at Startechtel.com. Our experienced and friendly staff will happily assist you. You can also connect with us on our social networks – Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and we are now on Pinterest!
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Save Me Pro App
Puccetti was inspired to create this emergency app after hearing the story of Jessica Cain, a teenager who disappeared in 1997. He hopes his app will “save somebody’s life.” With its simple and practical use, it just might.
How exactly does the app work? First you must download and install the SaveMePro app. The app is free, but you may upgrade to include 72 hour GPS tracking for $0.99. To register your number, choose “User/Child” and enter your phone number. Next, you can choose your emergency contacts/phone numbers (up to three). These contacts will receive a code (see Contact instructions below). Next you may edit the emergency text message to say “Help me” or any message you like. Double check that the SMS switch is turned ON. You can turn GPS on in your phone’s settings.
For your emergency contacts, they must download the app and choose the “Emergency Contact” option. They can enter their number and the code they received and they’re set. Once you send out an emergency signal, they will be alerted and able to track your phone.
After installing and setting up your contacts, it is wise to test out the app and get familiar with how it works. To send an emergency signal when the phone is locked, press the power button 8 times, ensuring that the screen turns on at least 4 times. When the phone is unlocked, you may hold down the volume button (either up or down) for at least 5 seconds. Your phone will vibrate to verify that your emergency message has been sent. Within the app, the “Stop Emergency Mode” button turns off tracking and erases any previous locations clearing out your map.
It is important to note that while this app can easily and quickly alert people that you are in trouble, it is not a substitute for 911. Also, there is room for error with the GPS tracking system depending on network signal strength.
As an app in early stages, a few hiccups are coming to light and are being remedied as soon as possible. Still, the app is gaining a great amount of attention and may be a helpful app for families. Would you consider using this app with your family and children, or have you already downloaded and installed it? We would love to hear your feedback – find us on Facebook, Google+, and Twitter.
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Business Phones Starting At $29 – October Only!
When you call in to place your order, you can get special lower rates on some of our best selling new and refurbished business phones. Prices start as low as $29!
Choose from popular Avaya, ESI, NEC, Nortel, Inter-tel and Vodavi business phones. Boasting standard operations combined with convenient features and functions, these business phones will help your office run smoothly.
Nortel M2616D (NT9K) Display Phone
For a low $29.00, you can get our refurbished Nortel M2616D display phone! With a 2 line, 24 character LCD display, compatible key expansion and 16 programmable buttons, this business phone is sure to enhance your office.
ESI 48-KEY DFP Phone
The refurbished ESI 48-Key phone is equipped to handle large call volume. With a 3 line, 56 character LCD display and 30 programmable keys, our ESI business phone is perfect for the busy worker. And at $99.00, this business phone is a steal!
Avaya Definity 6408D+ Display Phone
Our refurbished Avaya Definity 6408D+ display phone has all the excellent features of a new phone, but with a lower price. Cleaned and tested to perfection, this Avaya phone offers convenient functions, a 2 line, 24 character LCD display, 8 programmable feature buttons and 8 personal ring options. Suited for a small office and small budget at only $30.00, our Avaya Definity 6408D+ phone is a smart choice.
These prices only apply to phone orders so be sure to call us at 1-800-564-8045. Please mention our October pricing when ordering to ensure you receive our promotional prices. And remember, these prices are only valid from October 1-31, 2014, so act fast!
For great offers, convenience, and excellent customer service, choose Startechtel.com. We supply you with the best business phones, phone systems, and support at reasonable prices. Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook & Google+.
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Programming Instructions For Business Phone NEC DTERM 80

Discover your way around this awesome business phone with our simple steps on how to program some basic functions of your NEC Dterm 80 phone. Please keep in mind that when programming, incoming calls are disabled.
Programming Buttons
To program a button, leave the phone on hook, press the Feature key, and then press the button your wish to program. The code for programming one touch buttons is 01, so after choosing your desired button, dial 01. There are different functions for you to program, such as transferring a call. To program a button to transfer a call, after following the aforementioned steps, press the Hold button and dial the extension number you wish to transfer calls to. Press Hold again to write the number, and use the Speaker button to exit.
Speed Dial
The process to store speed dial numbers is quite simple. Leave the phone on hook and press the Feature button. Then press the Speed Dial button you wish to program. You may then dial the telephone number or system feature code to be stored (a maximum of 24 characters). To complete the process, press the Feature button once more and the LCD screen should display “SPD SET.”
Call Forwarding
There are two types of call forwarding: CFA (Call Forward All – calls are forwarded immediately, no ringing) and CFBNA (Call Forward Busy/No Answer – calls are forwarded if line is busy or no answer after about three rings). The process for programming is relatively the same, simply different codes. To initiate this process, lift your handset and listen for the dial tone. For CFA, press the CFA button or dial *7, or for CFBNA, press the CFBNA button or dial *8. After entering one of the codes, listen for a broken dial tone. Next, dial the number which you would like your calls forwarded to. You should hear a confirmation tone, and then you may hang up. Either the CFA or CFBNA light will illuminate to indicate the function is active. To cancel the function, pick up handset and listen for dial tone. You will press the buttons or dial #7 or #8 accordingly.
Depending on your system, functions, codes and buttons may vary. Please reference your User Manual as necessary.
If you have any questions regarding the NEC Dterm 80, or any of our products, please feel free to contact us at 1-800-564-8045. Our staff will be happy to help you as best they can. You can also visit us online at Startechtel.com or connect with us via Facebook, Google+, and Twitter.
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Virtual Smartphone App
It seems Dell and Vonage have partnered to create a Virtual Smartphone App. This app enables more secure business interactions and expense tracking for business related calls.
While there are apps out there that help to make BYOD easier, the Dell-Vonage endeavor seems more promising. Most of these BYOD apps are only available on certain platforms, while the Dell-Vonage app is available for all. Starting at $19.99 per line per month with up to 1,000 voice minutes and unlimited text, the app has a launch date for October 2014.
Another important feature is that it can distinguish between personal and business calls, and also allows for business call recordings. Thanks to their partnership with Vonage, all business interactions, whether calls, text, voicemail, email, or even data, will be managed and tracked via cloud services. Cloud services would also enable storage and sharing of content for project collaboration.
Users will need to download the app and will be assigned a virtual Vonage VoIP number, which will be added to their contacts and shared with others on the network. Personal and business phone numbers will remain separate for tracking and expense purposes. However, the business app would not impose on the employee’s personal space (i.e. you may snap a photo to be saved to your personal gallery while attending to a business call).The downside that people may find that, being a Dell app, services and support must also be exclusively Dell or Dell affiliated.
What will this app mean for businesses? Will the BYOD program begin to be more accepted by various companies? Promises of security seem sound, but hacking is always a looming possibility.
Does your company employ a BYOD program? Is it likely that they will try this new app? We would love to hear your thoughts on the matter. Find us on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.
Visit Startechtel.com for excellent new and refurbished business phones, phone systems, networking equipment, headsets, replacement parts, accessories and more. If you have any questions, we’ll happily help you – please call 1-800-564-8045.
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Will Consumers Value HD Voice and VoLTE Features?
Aside from the expediency of text and email, call quality could be the culprit as well. Of the complaints about cell phones over the years, call quality is a major one. Poor signal and unreliability leads to calls cutting out, static and dropped calls. Frustration often naturally ensues, leading people to happily turn to text and email. While our smart phones advance, call quality has yet to noticeably improve. Alas, Verizon may have the answer.
Verizon is working to change that, by soon offering HD Voice and voice-over LTE (VoLTE). Both features greatly enhance the calling experience, but is that enough?
HD Voice brings technology that uses less compression, allowing voices to sound more natural versus robotic. However, the only way for this to work is if both parties possess smart phones with HD Voice compatibility.
VoLTE will run on data network to conduct both voice and data traffic. This will enable video calling between individuals without an additional fee for the service.
Verizon has yet to announce the big reveal and which devices will have these features. Also, the Verizon networks would need a sufficient upgrade to offer both VoLTE and HD voice features. But together, these features could change the way we communicate, bringing back voice calls and enabling easier access to video calls.
Do you make a lot of calls from your cell phone, whether related to work, school or your personal life? Do you find these features appealing? Would you to purchase phones equipped with HD Voice and VoLTE? Do you see this as a vain attempt to sell new, unnecessary features? We would love to hear your thoughts on the topic. Find us on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+.
For your other telecommunication needs, please visit us online at Startechtel.com or give us a call at 1-800-564-8045. We will gladly assist you in your search for business phones, parts or acces
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