Top 5 Tips In Choosing Voip Broadband PhoneVoice over Internet Portocol, or VoIP is also called a broadband phone because it uses a broadband or high speed Internet connection to make voice calls. The VoIP enables the subscriber to make voice calls directly from a computer, or through a broadband phone. The three kinds of broadband phone VoIP connections are the Analog Telephone Adaptor (ATA), which connects to a router; IP Phones, which connect to an Ethernet connector; and computer to computer, which requires no other peripheral save a microphone, speakers and ad sound card. The cost savings from a VoIP is considerable. The service fees are normally lower than for analog lines; charges for calls outside the network are 2 cents a minute in the US. It functions much like the typical analog telephone and may also include call waiting, caller ID, and other features of a regular telephone line although the voice is transmitted digitally over the internet instead of over telephone wires for free. Long distance fees depend on the kind of service used, but most offer it for free on either end even if the calls are from country to country as long as both end-users are VoIP because it uses the Internet as a conduit. There are several kinds of VoIP services. Softphones are not actually phones but free downloadable software installed in the computer and used in conjunction with headphones and a microphone. An example would be Skype and GoogleTalk, but most of these providers only allow free calls within their network like Skype to Skype. There are different packages being offered by VoIP providers, from a flat rate for unlimited calls to anywhere to a VoIP-to-VoIP restriction for free calls. (More information about VoIP and broadband phones, 2007) With over 2,000 providers to choose from, it requires some know-how to choose the right provider and package for specific needs. The top five considerations for choosing a service is ease of use, package costs and inclusions, quality of service, compatibility with existing infrastructure, and location of desired service. For postpaid subscriptions, there is a flat fee charged monthly for an unlimited or a predetermined quantity of calls and includes local and long distance calls. Examples of these providers include SunRocket, Vonage and VoIP.com. Since VoIP is a relatively new concept, many users prefer a service which requires a learning curve that is relatively flat. The package should also reflect the use for which it is intended, such as long distance calls. A flat rate may be higher but if there is heavy long-distance traffic, this may be more economical than a pay-per-call service with a lower basic rate. As some services require certain technology to be present like high speed connection, this must be taken into consideration when deciding to use VoIP. Moreover, the presence of a technical help center for any problems that may occur in the service should be assured and easily accessible to the user as well. Most people have a computer and Internet prior to VoIP and it would be ideal if the service chosen can easily integrate with the existing specifications of the computer or Internet connection. If the VoIP is used primarily for long distance calls, it would be advisable to select a service that includes a personalized virtual number that can be used in a specific area with no long distance fees. In case the service provider issues fixed number, the provider should be in the area where the subscriber most reasonably expects to use it most. VoIP has some limitations that must be considered before deciding to use it as a primary communication tool. As the service relies on an Internet connection, it is important that the signal used is stable and of good quality. A poor connection will compromise the quality of a phone call. The VoIP will also not work if power is down. Emergency numbers such as 911 also function differently from a fixed landline as the VoIP has no permanent location. In cases of emergency, it may be difficult to pinpoint the user’s location from the VoIP phone unless the address recorded to the service provider is update. Overall, the VoIP or broadband phone is a welcome innovation for many homes and small businesses, enabling subscribers who choose well to enjoy considerable savings in their telecommunication needs. |