By Terry Currier
This page covers Internet Phone Service Video Phones Cell Phones Ear and Headsets Miscellaneous
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Internet Phone Service – VoIP
VoIP is Voice over IP - Internet using broadband. Typically
describing any Internet connection that has a bit rate higher than 100kps. The
term PSTN means Public Switched Telephone Network.
Actiontec www.actiontec.com
With the Actiontec Internet Phone Wizard using Skype Technologies’ Internet
calling service, consumers can make and receive free, or low-cost Internet phone
calls. Their Wizard product allows you to use the same phone for both regular
and Internet calls, avoiding the complications of needing separate handsets for
each. You can use your regular corded or cordless phone to call any Skype user
for free, and anyone else at low SkypeOut rates. As a bonus, you get a second phone line free. If a family
member is on a landline call in one room, you can pick up your Skype-connected
phone in another, tap a few buttons, and make an Internet call on the spot. Just
plug it into your PC, connect to Skype via the Internet, and dial anyone on
your Skype “Speed-Dial” list. If you receive a regular call while you’re on the
Skype conversation, press the # key twice to put the first call on hold and
pick up the second. Calls made are as clear as regular connections, thanks to
the latest echo-cancellation technology. No network configuration, change in
firewall or router settings is required. Available for $70, cables for
connecting the device to the PC and telephone are included. Minimum system
requirements include a Windows 2000/XP PC with a 400 MH processor, and an
available USB port, plus a LAN or modem-based Internet connection.
Belkin www.belkin.com
callEverywhere is Belkin's Broadband Phone Service which lets you make calls
using your Internet connection and simplifies message management with voice
mail, email, and calling features. With it users can access all their messages
from any web-connected computer. The service is presently available nationwide,
in 34 metropolitan areas and over 900 cities throughout the United States. It
works exclusively with Belkin's VoIP Phone Adapter for which they give a
lifetime warranty. Features include:
Calling plans: Three
home calling plans starting with the Basic 500. For $15/month they get
500 local and long distance minutes in the U.S. and Canada. Premium is $25/month
for unlimited local and long distance minutes in the U.S. and Canada. In
addition to voice mail, all business plans include a toll-free phone number and
fax service.
With a free download you can use their callEverywhere
SoftPhone letting you make calls with just your broadband Internet connection,
PC microphone, and PC speaker. With it you get free calls to other
callEverywhere customers, free email, call holding, voice mail, and 3-way
conference calling. Get it at www.everywhere.net.
Check the website for more plans.
BroadVoice www.broadvoice.com
Two plans with unlimited calling: Unlimited World at $20 month to 21 countries
and the Plus at $25 to 35 countries. Simple unlimited In-State is $10. Features
include:
Dialpad www.dialpad.com
For $12 a month their home plan will give you unlimited calls to anywhere in
the United States and Canada. Calls are made through your landline phone.
Local, 911, and 800 numbers are routed through the PSTN line. Long distance
calls are made using the Dialpad 11 digit dialing.
D-Link www.dlink.com
The DVG-1120 is a VoIP Gateway equipped with two standard phone ports, one is a
lifeline voice port for fail-over to standard phone services. There is one WAN
Ethernet 10/100BaseTX Port, and one LAN Ethernet 10/100BaseTX Port. D-Link has
partnered with VoiceGlo to bring an alternative VoIP solution to the market
using the GloPhone Blue service. The service allows consumers to make unlimited
point-to-point VoIP calling through a personal computer and the D-Link USB
Phone (DPH-10U). Devices such as the DVG-1120 require a Call Management system
to function. These services are offered independently of D-Link, but are only
required if user would like to use voice features. Because it shares your
single ISP IP address, it masks the local users' IP addresses from the outside
world, preventing intruders and hackers from gaining access to network
resources, data files or personal information. Support includes hardware based
Quality of Service (QoS), voice compression, echo cancellation, dynamic latency
(jitter) buffers, silence suppression, and comfort noise generation.
FreeWorld Dialup
www.freeworlddialup.com
Use FWD to make free phone calls using your telephone, or computer and any
broadband connection. You start by downloading a free, self-configuring
program. Then combine it with a simple inexpensive converter and any home
phone. Call from your house or a public hot-spot, for free. FWD allows you to
make free phone calls using any broadband connection using devices that follow
Internet standards. This can be a 'regular' telephone connected to a
packetizer, an IP Phone or any number of free soft-phones (software for your PC
or PDA). To make free calls, you and the person you wish to call need to sign
up for FWD and install a IP phone, Phone & Adapter, or software. Using a
prefix access code, FreeWorldDialup customers can call the subscribers of most
non-FWD Internet telephone services (e.g., Vonage, Packet8).
Lingo www.lingo.com
First month is free and they give a 30 day money back guarantee. Cost is $20 a
month. You can choose a area code number from 46 states and 14 countries. Over
25 calling features including voicemail to email, 3 way calling, caller ID, and
call forwarding.
FWD Communications www.pulver.com/communicator
A free download, the pulver.Communicator provides Instant Messaging service
with which subscribers can send IMs to the four most popular IM networks (AOL,
Yahoo!, ICQ, and MSN). The Call-Me Link feature can be used to establish VoIP
connections with non-SIP-enabled Buddy List contacts. The recipient of a
Call-Me Link need not be a Free World Dialup subscriber, they just need to be
running XP on a PC that has a microphone and speakers. Now users can broadcast
video to their SIP-enabled contacts via webcam and receive webcam video from
those contacts as well.
Packet8 www.packet8.net
Anyone with broadband Internet access can use their regular phone to make
unlimited calls to anywhere in the U.S. and Canada for $20 per month. Upon
signing up you are shipped a broadband telephone adapter (at no extra cost).
Along with the equipment, you will receive a 10-digit activation code. Packet8
will transfer your existing number or give you a new telephone number from the
area code of your choice. There are no extra numbers to dial, no special
instructions and no talking through your computer. Just pick up your phone, and
dial any phone number. Incoming calls ring your phone the same as any
traditional phone. Features include voicemail, caller ID, call forwarding, and
three way calling.
Soyo Group
www.soyogroup.com
Combining a voice gateway and a broadband router in a single unit, the
Z-Connect router AVRO 3001 features a standard analog telephone port, one WAN
Ethernet 10/100Base TX port, and four LAN Ethernet 10/100 Base TX ports. Simply
plug your phone into the telephone port to get the benefits of VoIP service.
The router also allows two or more PCs to share a single Internet access point,
and provides Internet security as well. The Z-Connect G668 telephone is an IP device that plugs directly into your
broadband connection for instant VoIP capability. Additional features include
advanced QoS (Quality of Service) technologies such as CODEC negotiation,
enhanced jittering technology, lost packet reconstruction, echo cancellation
and packet delay recovery to provide reliable high-quality voice
communications. Users can make phone calls to any phone number with the Soyo IP
phone service, which is pre-loaded to the IP phone set. Cost is $180. Basic
plan is: Free IP to IP calls or within the Z 2 Z Network, No monthly fee, and
no activation or cancellation fee.
VoIPVoice www.voipvoice.com
PDT introduced the VoIPVoice Cyberphone K USB telephone that is integrated with
Skype. Powered through the USB and all the necessary telephone functions used
with Skype are accessed direct from the unit itself. The keypad enable users to
scroll through their list of contacts, adjust the call volume, and mute calls.
Simply lifting the handset from its base automatically opens the Skype
application on the computer screen. Acoustically isolated speaker and
microphone eliminate echo. Available online for $60.
Uniden www.uniden.com
Launching their first consumer Voice over IP product, DTA 200 Digital Telephone
Adapter is a 5.8GHz digital expandable cordless phone with a built-in VoIP
adapter. It converts standard telephone signals to a VoIP digital signal so
they can be sent across a broadband Internet connection. It supports two
telephone lines and features like Caller ID, Call Waiting and 3-Way Calling. The UIP1868 is a 5.8GHz digital expandable
cordless phone with built-in VoIP adapter, expandable up to ten handsets,
allowing consumers to experience the extended features, convenience and
affordability of VoIP communication in every room of their homes.
Vonage www.vonage.com
With the Vonage Premium Unlimited Plan you can make
unlimited calls anywhere in the United States and Canada for $25 a month. Free features including: voicemail,
caller ID with name, call waiting, call forwarding, and 3-way calling. No
contract to sign, pick area code you want. You can get a Toll free number for $5
per month allowing your incoming caller to call you at no charge from anywhere
in the US, anytime. 100 incoming minutes are included every month and each
additional minute is 4.9 cents. You can add on SoftPhone and turn any PC or
laptop into a full-functioning telephone. Vonage features include voicemails, caller
ID with name, call forwarding, and more.
Video Phones return to top
D-Link www.dlink.com
The i2eye™ DVC-2000 Broadband VideoPhone is a full-featured desktop
videoconferencing device with a built-in 5" color LCD screen. It is a
standalone device, using advanced video compression technology, maximizing the
image and audio quality within the available bandwidth. It can send and receive
video at up to 30 frames per second to deliver real-time audio and video. With
Auto IP Mapping initiating a videoconference call over the Internet is as
simple as dialing a phone number. Instead of identifying your IP address, you
will assign it a "phone number" of your choice. As incoming i2eye
callers dial that phone number, a remote directory service provided by D-Link
(at no charge) automatically converts it into your i2eye's corresponding IP
address. For added convenience, a speakerphone mode provides you with
hands-free videoconferencing. The privacy mode blocks video and/or audio from
being sent to the other end of the call. 
Leadtek Research www.leadtek.com
The BVP8882 is a standalone videophone that makes phone calls without a
computer. The 5” LCD screen and CCD camera are mounted on a platform which can
be rotated and tilted, providing clear viewing even in a dimly lit environment.
It is perfect for videoconferencing, distance learning, visual consultancy,
personal identification, video surveillance, and sign language communication.
Priced at $599 SRP, it connects to a broadband network via a router, ADSL
modem, or cable modem. There is a built-in USB port. The phone has a built-in
microphone and speakerphone. Video and audio can also be recorded to external
devices, such as a VCR, through built-in video and audio connectors.
Their Leadtek BVP8759 is a Set-Top Box Videophone using the
TV as a videophone display. A corded or cordless microphone connects the user’s
voice to the unit. Priced at $499 SRP. Both units come with a baby monitor
mode.
Motorola www.motorola.com
Ojo is designed for broadband leveraging the existing cable and DSL
infrastructure. As a SIP-compliant endpoint, it requires no additional headend
equipment for DOCSIS® cable modems. Users can make IP video calls and PSTN or
VoIP voice-only calls over a current telephone number. Comes with a 5.6" diagonal
LCD monitor, with high-resolution 16:9
display, true-to-life video and audio quality, and Picture-based caller ID and
phonebook. Callers can leave both a video and voice message. Video is
transmitted at 30 frames per second. MSRP is $799.
Packet8 www.packet8.net
Subscribers with videophones can make video calls for $30 per month. They get
world wide unlimited calling to other Packet8 subscribers at no extra charge.
Calls to non-Packet8 international numbers (outside the U.S. and Canada) are
charged at a low per minute rate. Incoming calls ring your phone the same as
any traditional phone. Features include voicemail, caller ID, call forwarding,
and three way calling.
Cell Phones return to top
LG Electronics www.lge.com
PM-325 Bluetooth Slide-Design Mobile Phone is LG’s first handset featuring
Bluetooth technology. Features an integrated CMOS digital camera with 8x
digital zoom and built-in self-portrait mirror, Web browser with image support,
email capability and a voice memo recorder. Available now at a SRP of $230.
A7110 has a slide design, highlighted by the full color LCD screen. It features
EDGE class 10 capabilities for High-Speed Data Transmission, Mobile Instant
Messenger, two-way short messaging services and photo caller-ID. Its integrated
camera and advanced messaging features allow users to send photos and videos
with personalized text, voice and/or sound.
The VX8000 features Video and Music on Demand for streaming, downloading and
playing video and audio clips, Video Messaging capabilities and an integrated
CCD 1.3 mega pixel camera with macro mode with four digital zoom settings for
shooting video and still images. Users can compose and view their shots with
large internal and external 262K TFT color LCD screens. It has a 500 contact
phone book, MIDI sound, personal organizer and more.
Samsung www.samsung.com
Unveiled was the Samsung's p207, the first phone with the new VoiceMode
technology that allows consumers to simply speak the words of a message and
have the phone translate those exact words into text. This voice activated text
messaging application allows users to quickly and easily address the message
then use their voice to create text, bringing virtually hands-free and
eyes-free communication to text messaging. Using advanced voice activation
technology, consumers also can send pre-programmed short messages with the
sound of their voice.
The QuickPhrase feature debuting on Samsung's a890 makes it easy for consumers
to address a message and activate one of the frequently used short messages
pre-programmed in the phone. Once in the messaging application, users can
activate phrases such as “Call me” or “Will call you later” by simply speaking
those words, and the text is included in the message. Features include: V Cast
allowing the user to download and view video clips from a library of content
all from your phone. Choose from premium content, 3-D games, music videos, and
other premium video clips. EV-DO, a broadband high-speed data service. 1.3 Megapixel
digital camera. Also shown: QVGA phone that allows consumers to record up to
one hour of high quality video directly on their phone, connect the phone to
their television and view the video on TV; the U.S.'s first multi-mega pixel
camera phone line up, including a two mega pixel and a five mega pixel camera
with 3X optical zoom capabilities.
Sanyo www.sanyo.com
Along with Sprint and announced plans today to offer Sanyo’s first multimedia
phone, the Sprint PCS VisionSM Multimedia Phone MM-7400. Allows customers to
view on-demand streaming video and audio as well as shoot VGA pictures and
extended 30-second video clips with the integrated camera and camcorder. The
phone also offers capabilities for walkie-talkie style communication. Suggested
retail price is $380 or $230 after rebate. Customers get streaming audio and
video content from sources such as: NBC
Mobile, CNN, ABC News, FOX Sports, and The Weather Channel. Multimedia content
is delivered to the handset at up to 15 frames per second. The integrated
camera features a built-in three-mode flash, and the camcorder has a movie
light for low-light situations. With Picture MailSM and Sprint PCS Video Mail,
users can instantly take and share special moments with family and friends.
Ear and Headsets return to top
Body Glove markets a number of different
models carried by Fellowes. They include the Earglove line and Bluetooth
headset. www.fellowes.com 
Cardo Systems uses Bluetooth for connection to phones. Their WindGuard™ technology overcomes wind interference. The scala-500™ comes equipped with all high end features and weighs only .58 oz (16.8 g). The user will get up to 9 hours of talk time. www.cardowireless.com
Flamingo it’s weight is 8 grams, there is a standby time up to 130 hours, and 8 hours of talk time. It uses Bluetooth for connectivity. www.flamingo-headset.com
GN Netcom has three ear pieces with various lengths for the microphone from the ear. They also have headphone units. www.gnnetcom.com
Plantronics has the largest selection of headsets and ear pieces. They range computer pieces, to cell phone, to even units especially made for VoIP. www.plantronics.com
Cellboost www.cellboost.com
Cellboost is a disposable battery/charger for cell phones
from Compact Power Systems. They deliver an average of 60 minutes of talk time
with no need for electrical outlet. The small unit plugs into the normal AC
slot of the phone and gets it a boost of power. They announced they are expanding into units for
camcorders, Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP, and Apple iPods. Unit typically sell
for $6-$7.
Infone www.infone.com
A personal assistant telephone service, they introduced a voice e-mail
retrieval feature that allows those on the go to read and respond to e-mail
without access to a computer. The first five calls are free, additional calls
cost 89 cents for any call up to 15 minutes and 5 cents per minute after that.
The StarBack® feature allows users to make numerous calls
within one 15-minute session. After being connected with the first person users
can press the star key, return to the operator, free of charge, and be
connected with the next listing, check e-mail, ask for directions, etc. The
feature can be used up to four times in one call. There is 24/7 access to a live personal telephone assistant who can assist with
a number of services, including:
Orb Networks www.orb.com
A developer of streaming media software and services for mobile devices. It
provides a simple way for consumers to view, hear and control all kinds of
their digital content from virtually any Internet-enabled device, from anywhere
in the world. Their solution provides access to a person’s music, live
television, videos, photos and other digital content from any device that can
connect to the Internet, such as a cell phone, PDA, or notebook, allowing users
to create their own “personal media portal.” Using any web browser it provides
a simple, intuitive interface to the user’s content located on their home PC or
on the Internet.
RCA www.thomson.net
A subsidiary of Thomson was showing the RCA Cell Phone Docking System (Model
23200). It is for households that do not have a landline
telephone. Place the
docking system in a room that receives the clearest cellular reception, then while
it charges, the digital handset(s) are
used to make or answer calls anywhere in the home. Users with a landline
telephone can plug the phone wire into the docking system, essentially creating
an instant “second” phone line. To identify whether a call is coming in on the
home telephone or the cell, the handset features different ring tones, and
separate buttons allow the option of making calls using cell minutes or the
home phone line. The system also features a call timer to track cell minutes
used while the user’s cell phone is in the docking system. Available in the
spring, the suggested retail price of the RCA Cell Docking System is $150.
Texas Instruments www.ti.com/wireless
You won’t see it right away but TI announced development of the wireless
industry’s first digital TV on a single chip for cell phones, which will
capture broadcast signals and allow cell phone users to watch live broadcasts.
Code-named “Hollywood,” the chip will receive live digital TV broadcasts using
new television infrastructure. The broadcast TV will be at 24-30 frames per
second, paired with full audio.
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