Business PoE Switches
Looking for networking switches or routers? Dotcom Computers carries a large wealth of networking options for your business. From Adtran to Cisco to Dell PowerConnect, Dotcom Computers has a networking solution for you.
Dotcom Computers has been providing computer networking equipment and telecommunications systems for over 20 years. With a large breadth of experience, they are knowledgeable about many different systems, including ShoreTel.
Adtran is a networking company specializing in converged data and voice networks. With products such as the Adtran Total Access 908 that combines traditional analog FXS ports into an IP business gateway, Adtran products offer a wide variety of solutions for any system.
Dotcom Computers also offers refurbished legacy Cisco switches and routers. The 2800 and 2900 Cisco routers are offered in addition to Cisco’s popular enterprise level Catalyst swiches.
Dell PowerConnect networking switches are the flagship products of Dotcom Computers. From the affordable, gigabit Dell PowerConnect 2748 switch to the 10Gb fast Dell PowerConnect 8024F switch, Dotcom Computers offers the widest range of Dell switches on the market. Refurbished power over Ethernet switches from Dotcom Computers offer low cost alternatives to the more expensive retail switches. For a quote on Dell PowerConnect switches, please give us a call.
Those looking for IP gateways, NTUs, Multiplexers, or all-in-one PBXs can contact Dotcom Computers with any questions they might have. Additional networking equipment options can be found on their website or by phone at 1-800-798-DOTCOM.
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Will Desk Phones Soon Bite The Dust?
Many companies are providing workers with a company cell phone. BYOD (bring your own device), whether company or self provided, is being used in the workplace now. But are these devices enough? Yes, it’s smart to stay connected, but it’s important to disconnect at times as well. Using your own device or having a company provided device with you at all times may make it hard to separate your own time from work. Our society’s obsession with technology is bad enough, and this may make us more dependent.
With desk phones, you can keep your work at work. When necessary, you can forward your calls to your personal or work cell phone, without giving your clients your personal number. You can also check your voicemail remotely as needed.
Over time, desk phones have matured, adding features to keep up with the technological demand of many businesses. With excellent, helpful features and a more reliable connection, desk phones seem to be holding their own in a progressive industry.
However, email, instant messages or texts have become an easier alternative these days. While this can be helpful, messages can be misconstrued or misread. Live conversations over the phone are more personable because you can pick up on different inflections which convey different feelings and messages. Or you can even see the person you are talking to with video phones, the closest thing to a face-to-face interaction without being in the same room.
There are pros and cons to both sides, but in reality, desk phones and cell phones can work together. While at work, desk phones can be easier to use, especially due to advanced features. If your work requires you to be out of the office for some time, you may forward your calls to your cell phone. And if one phone isn’t working properly for whatever reason, the other can be used as back up.
While analysts may predict the death the desk phones, it seems like there may be a 
decrease in sales, but it will take a while for desk phones to completely go away.
At Startechtel, we carry a vast selection of new and refurbished business phones, desk phones, conference phones and much more. Shop our selection online today or place your order over the phone – call us toll-free at 1-800-564-8045.
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Yealink Phones & Accessories
Yealink Phones
and functionality in all of their products.
Yealink has a large family of VoIP products including IP phones, IP video phones, and USB phones. These phones boast sleek, attractive designs with exceptional display screens. Most models have crisp color display or LCD screens with backlights. The Yealink T4 series are wall mountable and do not use paper labels. The Yealink T3 series possess the basic features (call waiting, caller ID, call forwarding, etc) and easy installation. These Yealink IP phones also offer Power over Ethernet (PoE) support.
Expanding your Yealink phone system? Need a new handset? Our selection of Yealink accessories include expansion modules, replacement handsets, power supplies, and more. Keep your phone systems functioning at their maximum capacity with our Yealink accessories.
From basic to enhanced, we carry a variety of new, feature-rich Yealink IP phones and accessories. Take a look at our items online at StartechTel.com. Have any questions regarding these products? Give us a call at 1-800-564-8045.
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On-Hold Plus 8000 Music on Hold Unit
The On-Hold Plus 8000 Music on Hold Unit comes ready to go. A 128MB flash drive is provided and comes loaded with about 3 hours worth of fully licensed music and messages. You can add to the preloaded music by connecting to a Mac or PC. Larger capacity flash drives may also be used. The On-Hold Plus 8000 Music on Hold unit also comes with MessageStudio software which allows you to create your own audio content for play back – simply upload your new content to a flash drive & connect. Also, when you register your product, you are entitled a free professionally voiced, personalized on-hold message.
Upon looking at the Music on Hold unit, you can see its durability in the rugged anodized aluminum enclosure. In case of power loss, your settings are safe and will resume proper functioning once power is restored, no need to worry. With a built in speaker, you can check on your audio and a trigger switch jack allows for automatic looping.
The On-Hold Plus 8000 Music on Hold Unit is fairly easily to install. First, be sure you have all the components: the Music on Hold unit, an AC adapter, USB flash drive, Connector Cable A (Phono/RCA plugs), Connector Cable B (3.5mm mini to RCA), and the MessageStudio software and drivers.
Begin by plugging the AC adapter into a power outlet. The other end should be plugged in to the jack marked “DC9V” on the unit. Depending on your system, plug either connector cable A or B into the jack marked “AUDIO OUT” on the unit. Locate the Music on Hold (M-O-H) input jack on your phone system (PBX or KSU). Once your unit is connected to a power source and your phone system, insert the USB flash drive into the USB slot on the unit. Locate the volume knob and turn it clockwise to power on and adjust the volume. The playback should begin automatically. Press the “Speaker” button to monitor the audio output.
An important thing to remember when adding music to your unit is licensing. Without 
proper permission or licensing, you can be hit with fines. Your best bet is to use the preloaded music that comes with the system. Otherwise, look into obtaining permission or proper licensing to avoid any fees.
You can find the On-Hold Plus 8000 Music on Hold Unit on StarTechTel.com, along with other music on hold systems. If you have any questions regarding music on hold or any of our products, please feel free to contact us at 1-800-564-8045.
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Phone Systems With Video
AT&T made a valiant effort to get video phones to catch on. In 1964, they debuted the Picturephone to much chagrin. Consumers disliked the small screen and difficult controls. Their next attempt was in the form of videophone booths, which were discontinued shortly after implementation. The booths were costly and reservations were necessary, often an inconvenience. One last endeavor was the videophone for home use, introduced in the 70s. This was precisely what was expected, however, consumers soon realized the video aspect was a bit too intrusive. People did not want to be seen in pajamas or before showering.
It boiled down to the idea being more advanced than the technology. In lieu of the videophone came webcams, making it easy and affordable to communicate face to face so long as internet connection was available. Furthering the obsoletion of landlines, cell phones and smart phones came along and took the world by storm. For nearly all smart phones with a front facing camera, there is an app to enable video chat abilities (ex. FaceTime, Skype, ooVoo, Tango, Fring, etc).
While these essentially eliminate the need for actual video phones, there is still a market for video phones for businesses. Video conferencing is still cheaper than flying to a different country for a business meeting, and much more efficient. Video phones can also play an important role in “telemedicine” as physicians basically hold a consultation through a video chat.
While video phones can be a bit more costly than other phones, certain businesses can still profit from them. Find our selection of video phones at StarTechTel.com. If you have any questions or concerns, our staff will gladly help; you can live chat or give us a call at 1-800-564-8045.
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Analog Phones Vs. IP Phones
Analog phones are simple and inexpensive. But to the same effect, they may be limited in their potential. While they possess the standard features like hold, mute, redial and speed dial, it is harder to add features since they are hardware based. Not only may it be difficult, but it could be costly as well. Analog phones also run on POTS (plain old telephone service) versus the more modern telephony type connections. Because of their dated simplicity, analog phones may be better suited for smaller businesses that do not rely heavily on telecommunications.
IP phones are based on internet protocol and can function whenever or where ever there is internet connection. The upside is that this can make the system run faster; however, IP phones are also susceptible to failure when internet is down. Still, IP phones offer more flexibility when it comes to features and upgrades. Features can include unified messaging, auto attendant options, and more. Because upgrading and expanding is much easier with IP phones and systems, these may be more efficient for larger businesses with large call volumes.
While cost can be an issue, you must weigh the differences. Analog phones may cost less upfront, but may run up a bill for later upgrades or configurations. IP phones may have a larger upfront cost, but upgrades and support are usually easier and less expensive. If you’re looking for a user-friendly, basic, affordable phone, analog phones may be your best bet. If you need a more feature-rich, advanced, easily expandable phone that could cost 
you less in the long run, IP phones are probably better for you.
Examining your business and personal needs for telecommunications systems will help you better identify which system is right for you. If you are unsure and need general assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-800-564-8045. Feel free peruse our selection of analog and IP phones at Startechtel.com.
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New Year’s Traditions
The traditional kiss at midnight is a given, right? Whether it’s a significant other or the stranger next to you, it is believed that no kiss at midnight will lead to a year of loneliness.
Have you ever wondered about “Auld Lang Syne”? It originated in Scotland and spread from there. A poem turned song about coming together, reflecting on the past, and moving forward to the future. It’s common for everyone to join in a massive sing-along to close out the night.
Watching the ball drop in Times Square is another well-known tradition. It’s likely that we have all counted down and watched the ball drop at least once, especially since it’s widely televised every year. But before there was a ball drop, there were fireworks. Thanks to a ban a few years in, fireworks were out and the ball drop was in.
Fireworks are still a tradition in China. The loud noises are thought to ward off evil spirits and misfortune. Their calendar year is slightly different than ours; Chinese New Year falls on Jan 31, 2014 and marks the beginning of the year of the horse.
Many wish for prosperity & good fortune in the New Year. For Southerners, this is achieved by eating Hoppin’ John, a black-eyed peas-based stew. The peas are thought to symbolize coins. In the Philippines, they wear polka dots & carry coins in their pockets. And in Spain, good luck comes from eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight. Each grape signifies a month of good luck.
Color plays a role in these traditions as well. In Latin American countries, the color of your underwear are believed to predict the year ahead. Red symbolizes love & romance, yellow brings prosperity & success, white brings peace & harmony, and green brings health & well-being.
There are countless more traditions, and if yours wasn’t mentioned, please share it with us. Find us on Twitter, Facebook, or Google+.
Whatever your traditions or beliefs, we would like to wish you a happy new year! May 2014 bring you much success and happiness. Stay safe & celebrate responsibly.
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Christmas Wishes Come True
This year, Canada’s WestJet Airlines exemplified just that, as they got into the giving spirit in a big way. Before boarding their flights to Calgary, over 250 passengers shared their Christmas wishes with Santa Claus. Airline workers scrambled to get all the presents for the duration of the flights. Upon landing, much to the passengers’ surprise, they found a surplus of gifts at baggage claim.
Admittedly, this was all filmed for a publicity stunt, but it is unlikely that WestJet Airlines will get a large boost in sales. The video can be found on YouTube and has gained much popularity. They did promise that if the video surpassed 200,000 views (which it has), they would donate free flights to families in need. They are currently working with the Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada to find families.
There is nothing more rewarding than seeing all the reactions of the families and children. Even better is that the wishes spanned from large screen televisions and tablets to a warm scarf and socks and underwear. No matter what the gift, extravagant or miniscule, you can genuinely see their appreciation.
What a touching way to restore faith in mankind. There are more touching instances like this to help keep your spirits alive and well. For all that is ugly in our world, there is still beauty in all that surrounds us, you just have to look.
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StarTechTel.com’s Holiday Special
- Free $25 Target Gift Card with purchases of $250 or more
- Free $50 Visa Gift Card with purchases of $650 or more
- Free Blu-Ray Disc Player with purchases of $1000 or more
Stock up on telecommunication equipment for your home, office or business and receive a free gift. You can keep the gift for yourself or use them for more gifts. Whatever you decide, it’s a win-win situation. Browse our fine selection of business phones, phone systems, parts, accessories and more from top manufacturers.
This offer is valid from December 17-24, 2013, for phone and internet orders. For internet orders, you must mention this promo in the “Order Comments” box on the check out screen. Phone orders must verbally mention the promo prior to completing order to assure that it is applied. This offer is based on website pricing only and cannot be combined with any other offers. All gift cards & Blu-Ray players will be shipped within one week of your purchase.
Finish your holiday shopping strong with StartechTel. Visit us online at Startechtel.com or give us a ring at 1-800-564-8045 to place your orders. Happy Holidays!
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How to change time on your Nortel Meridian phone
First, locate your FEATURE button which usually has the Nortel globe logo on it. One located you want to press the FEATURE button followed by * * 8 4 6 3 (TIME). Your LCD display should read “Password:” (If you receive an “Invalid feature code” please skip to the next paragraph). Enter 2 2 7 4 2 and “Hour.01” should be displayed. If the screen says “Retry” enter 2 3 6 4 6. Located under the LCD screen is the CHANGE softkey, press this and use the keypad to enter the hour, using two digits (i.e. single number times should be preceded with a 0; 3pm = 03). Then use the CHANGE softkey to choose AM or PM and hit OK. Press the NEXT softkey under the LCD screen to display “Minutes: 00”. Press the CHANGE softkey and use the keypad to input the minutes. When finished, press the RLS button (should look like a handset with an arrow pointing downward) and “End of session” should be displayed on the screen.
If the previous method did not work, you will need one of these models (M7310, T7316 or M7324) to access programming. Press the FEATURE button followed by * * 2 6 6 3 4 4 (if you still get an “invalid feature code” or error message, please skip to the next method). “Password:” should come up on the LCD screen and you will enter 2 2 7 4 2. You are now in programming mode and your keys have temporarily changed functions – please reference pictures for HEADING, BACK, SHOW and NEXT keys for each model respectively. Press the NEXT key until “Time & Date” is displayed. Pressing the SHOW button will allow you to see the current hour. Use the CHANGE softkey to adjust accordingly, and use the NEXT button to access minutes, year, month and day. Pressing NEXT will save your changes when you’re done.
If the previous methods didn’t work out for you, here’s one last method. Press the FEATURE button, then * * 2 6 6 3 4 4 and enter the password 2 6 6 3 4 4. The display should read “A. Configuration”. Please reference pictures for temporary key functions. Press NEXT to display “B. General Admin”. Press SHOW to display “1. Sys Speed Dial”. Press NEXT until display reads “3. Time & Date”. Press SHOW and your current settings will appear. Press the CHANGE softkey twice so the display reads “Hour: _”. Use the keypad to enter the new hour in the 24-HOUR format. Press NEXT to display “Minutes: # #” then press CHANGE to display “Minutes: _”. Enter the new minutes and press the RLS button when finished.
Reading these instructions may seem overwhelming, but if you take your time and follow the steps it should work. We are also in the office Monday-Friday 8am-5pm if you prefer to talk to someone directly; you can reach us toll-free at 1-800-564-8045. You can also visit us online at Startechtel.com and live chat with our helpful staff.
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