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2007-07-09 - Implementing VoIP
What you need to set up and use VoIP.
Implementing VoIP
Computer-to-computer:
Some companies offer free software that you can download and install on your computer-essentially using your computer as a phone. You need to be sound-enabled and have a headset or microphone set up to use it. This allows you to talk from your computer to another person on his or her desktop or laptop only, and in many cases, you can only use it with another person who has downloaded the same software.
Service provider:
VoIP service providers offer plans for individuals much like traditional phone service plans. You sign up, pay a monthly bill, and have all of the usual calling features-long-distance calling, caller ID, call waiting, etc.-plus the benefit of using a regular phone to make calls. With VoIP, you'll also get extras like free conferencing and advanced voicemail which allows you to check your messages from your computer and forward them as e-mail attachments.
Or you might discover that you want something closer to traditional phone service, in which case consider starting small with a service provider. Service provider plans are affordable, and to a certain extent, they can grow with you-once you've signed on, the only investment in scaling is buying equipment for additional users.
The service provider option does cost a bit more, but it comes with the added benefits of feeling more like your existing phone service and providing you the technical support you might need to get up and running.
Computer-to-computer VoIP is often best for 1 to 5 person applications, and for small home office use. Set-up is usually quite easy, and many such services are available at little or no cost.
More elaborate systems, with ATA (analog phone adapters) or a VoIP hard phone takes a little while longer for set-up, due mostly to the equipment purchase and installation. Costs vary, but are often in the $25 - $45 per month range.
Most VoIP companies are offering minute-rate plans, much like cell phone companies, do, for a fixed monthly rate. On the higher end, some offer unlimited plans for $89. With the elimination of unregulated charges and the suite of free features that are included with these plans, it can be quite a savings.
Many VoIP companies include features that normal phone companies charge extra for when they are bundled in your service plan.
VoIP usually includes:
- Caller ID
- Call waiting
- Call transfer
- Repeat dial
- Return call
- Three-way calling
VoIP and Intel technology platforms
With the breakthrough mobile capabilities and energy-efficiency of Intel Centrino Duo mobile technology, now available with the 64-bit capability of the Intel Core2 Duo processor, mobile power and connectivity options can be more reliable than ever.
VoIP can be a great money saver, but the choice of computers is critical-whether you're using VoIP on notebooks or desktop computers.
Business users on the move can collaborate more effectively with Intel Centrino Duo mobile technology-based laptops. Enhanced access point selection for intelligent roaming capabilities delivers better Quality of Service (QoS), and these new dual-core processors also allow greater connectivity options, better wireless performance overall, and greater battery life.
When using VoIP on desktop computers, the dual-core processing performance of the Intel Pentium D Processor enables high-fidelity VoIP phone calls despite heavy multi-tasking system loads. Desktop and notebook computer platforms include Intel High Definition (HD) Audio to deliver CD-quality sound.
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