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What Do I Need for VoIP?

VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the internet then converts it back at the other end so you can speak to anyone with a regular phone number. To make VoIP calls you need a broadband Internet connection and a VoIP service provider with an adaptor.

First, you need a reliable broadband Internet connection. Dial-up will not work. You need at least 100kbps upstream and downstream to have consistent top class call quality. Your broadband can be through cable, DSL or T1. If your cable or DSL service is not reliable, you may miss an important call.

Second, you will need to subscribe to a VoIP service, which provides a VoIP adaptor at no additional cost. You can plug any existing home phone into the adaptor using a standard phone jack, then plug the adaptor into your cable or DSL modem using a standard network cable. ATA's are usually provided free of charge when you sign up with a VoIP service provider. This is similar to signing up with a regular phone company -- there is a monthly charge and you may have to sign a contract tying you into the service for a certain period of time.

Do I need a router?

A router is needed only if you are using multiple computers and/or networking devices with the VoIP service.

How can I use multiple phone sets ?

There are a number of ways to use multiple phones.

Multiple jack connector (Splitter):

For phones in the same room, you can use a standard telephone line splitter. Use the type that is on the end of a phone wire instead of the type designed to plug into a wall jack as the latter may interfere with the VoIP adaptor's power cord. You are not recommended, however, to connect more than two phones in this manner.

- Phone Splitter

Expandable cordless phone:

For phones in multiple rooms, you may use a multi-handset cordless phone system. Connect the base unit of the phone system into the Phone 1 port on the adapter.

- Multi Handset (Panasonic) - Multi Handset (Uniden) - Multi Handset (VTech)

Wireless phone jack:

Another multi-room option is a wireless phone jack system. These consist of a transmitter that you plug into the VoIP adapter, and receivers that are placed throughout the home wherever there is a standard power outlet. Make sure that the manufacturer be compatible with your service features.

- Phonex PX-441 Wireless Easy Jack for Voice and Data

Do I need a computer to make/receive VoIP calls?

It depends on whether or not you will be using a softphone with your VoIP integration. VoIP does not require any computer to make/receive phone calls (only ATA devices or IP phones). If softphones are used instead of physical phones or ATA devices, then computers are needed.

Should I use an ATA or an IP phone?

It depends on your preference and budget. An ATA will allow you to use analog phones for VoIP. While this might save money, they do not have one touch feature keys (e.g. transfer, hold, etc). On the other hand, using IP phones will provide more features that are similar to digital phones.