VoIP Equipment 101: What VoIP Systems Require

VoIP equipment- the phones, adapters, or routers you need to configure your system- can become a big portion of the total system costs. VoIP equipment ranges from the very basic (microphone headsets) to the advanced (media phones and IP-PBX equipment). The hardware you choose has a big impact on how your system will function. Here are a few basic VoIP equipment options you should know about:

Phones

Most business and residential users are accustomed to a desktop handset. VoIP phones are equipped to work specifically with IP telephony features, and can be very advanced (videoconference features, call tracking and monitoring options, LCD media screens, and other advanced capabilities) or very basic (a microphone attached to a computer). A simple microphone headset that acts as a phone will typically cost less than $50, while more advanced VoIP phones range in cost from $50 to hundreds of dollars or more, depending on the features you require.

Adapters

Businesses that currently use a landline-based system don’t need to throw all of their current equipment into the recycling bin. Traditional PTSN phones can be equipped with VoIP adapters, which convert a traditional telephone signal into a signal recognizable by your VoIP system. Adapters typically cost less than $50 each, but won’t provide the seamless functionality that VoIP phones allow for.

Routers

Some VoIP service packages require a specific type of internet connection, or function better with a faster connection or a dedicated transmission line. You may need to purchase a new or additional router if this is the case. VoIP service providers will let you know if a new router is necessary.

Equipment Sources

Some VoIP service providers require customers to purchase phones or other hardware as part of a basic service agreement. Purchasing phones from your service vendor won’t always be the best deal, so it’s important to ask if you can use your own equipment or find a less expensive source- purchasing refurbished and recycled equipment is usually a great bargain. The important thing is to make sure that any equipment you already own or plan to purchase is compatible with your plan’s service requirements.

One In-Stat survey estimates that the cost of VoIP hardware is almost half of the total system cost for most small businesses. Make sure you pay attention to equipment features and costs, and check out several different equipment vendors before you make a final decision.