VoIP Service Provider18 September 2005
Many of people will be well informed about VoIP, but others of you may not be up to speed yet on what VoIP is all about. So let us cover some basics about the technology. VoIP has grown in popularity recently and with that rise in popularity has come a number of common misconceptions and confusion. Here are some of the most common questions and concerns.
What is VoIP and what does it stand for?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and it allows you to place telephone calls over a data network such as the Internet. It operates by converting your voice signal from an analog signal (like that coming from your telephone) into a digital signal that can then be transmitted over the Internet. The digital signal is then converted at the other end back to a voice signal that the other party can hear. When you use a standard phone with an adapter the calls are placed just like a regular telephone. Using a computer with VoIP software, the call is placed right from the computer.
How do I make a VoIP phone call?
Making a VoIP phone call is no different from using a regular land line telephone. You pickup the receiver and then dial your number as you always have in the past. The call connects to your high-speed Internet connection and travels to your local telephone company's equipment to a VoIP provider which transports the signal through the Internet to the local provider of the party you are calling. They relay the signal to your party’s telephone. As an alternative, you may also place the call using your computer's hardware and software, entering the number through your keyboard. The signal is then sent through your cable or DSL modem to your local telephone carrier.
What equipment do I need for VoIP phone calls?
Your existing incoming high-speed Internet connection should be sufficient but the higher the connectivity the better the signal. In terms of hardware, you can hook up an inexpensive microphone to your computer or connect a phone directly to a VoIP telephone adaptor (ATA). Or you can use a phone specially made to work with Internet Voice. This is called an SIP phone. Each SIP phone is a network endpoint, and voice is routed via its IP address. It allows a DID (direct inward dialing) number to move with a user. You can move, add or remove stations and never have to call your service company. SIP phones also allow full use of advanced features like voice mail to e-mail and auto attendant.
Who can I call if I am using a VoIP service?
From your computer, your calls can be made to any local telephone number, mobile phone, long distance number, or any international number as long as you have purchased call minutes that average around 2.5 cents a minute to most places. More importantly, the person you are calling does not need any special equipment; just a regular telephone.
Are there any advantages in using VoIP phone service?
If you are using a broadband internet connection, you don't need to maintain and pay the additional cost for a regular land line just to make telephone calls. You will be able to take your mobile computer or adapter box anywhere in the world, plug it into any broadband connection regardless of specific provider, and you can make LOCAL calls to your home area code. Parents can keep in touch with children at college; churches can contact missionaries all over the world; and businesses can connect branch offices in different cities. When you travel, you should be able to use your VoIP service as long as you have a high-speed Internet connection available. With an adapter, or with a mobile pc such as a laptop, it will work the same as when you are at home or in the office.
Will I be able to dial 911 emergency services?
VoIP providers everywhere are working to seamlessly connect with the 911 dispatch center, or to identify the location of Internet Voice 911 callers. Our Vortex VoIP provider will also be working to incorporate the 911 capability as soon as possible into our VoIP package.
Will I be able to use my computer while making a VoIP phone call?
Yes, you most certainly will be able to use your computer while making calls on your VoIP network.
Does my computer need to be running in order to use VoIP service?
Your computer does not need to be turned on but your broadband connection must be active in order for VoIP to function properly. However, if you are not using an adapter and choose to use a microphone or headset with your computer then your computer must be on.
How will I know when I receive a phone call over my VoIP service?
Your VoIP phone will ring like any other telephone.
Who regulates VoIP services?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has worked to create an environment promoting competition and innovation to benefit consumers. Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet or the services provided over it. On February 12, 2004, the FCC found that an entirely Internet-based VoIP service was an unregulated information service. On the same day, the FCC began a broader proceeding to examine what its role should be in this new environment of increased consumer choice and what it can best do to meet its role of safeguarding the public interest. In November 2004 they ruled that States do not have the jurisdiction to impose taxes on VoIP services, another victory for the consumer.
Will I be able to use VoIP behind a firewall?
Sometimes corporate locations have special firewall settings for added security. If using at a corporate location, you may need to ask your network administrator regarding any special setting that are required to function through the firewall.
How can I improve the sound quality?
* Speak with a headset instead of a microphone. Better still, use a SIP phone or phone with an adaptor.
* If you are using a microphone, hold it away from the speakers to avoid having the sound from your
speakers recirculate into your microphone causing feedback.
* Lower the volume on your speakers.
* Check with your sound card manufacturer to be sure you are using the latest drivers. * Use a direct phone
jack. A split line or extension cord between your phone jack and computer can distort the sound causing an echo.
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Source: The Open Press
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