1. The Basics: How many sites, phone lines, extensions, type of phones, and growth capacity do you need? Will you be saving money by buying your phone lines as SIP trunks from an Internet Telephony Service Provider?
2. The Features: Want just voice mail to email forwarding, or something newer? What about mobility options such as using your smart phone to control your calls? How about a phone at home that rings with the office phones? Need an in-house conference bridge or call queuing for sales and service reps?  Want to see everyone’s presence status from the desktop PC’s Call Manager?
3. System architecture: Is the proposed solution a traditional integrated phone system with VoIP hardware ‘bolted on’? Does it require multiple servers converged together in order to deliver all its features? Are separate appliances used at each site for local calling and redundancy? Does each site have a stand-alone phone system that is interfaced with the other sites, or are all the sites one unified system?  What about remote survivability?
4. The LAN: Will Local Area Network cabling or managed Ethernet switches need to be added in order to have new VoIP phones deployed? Will the installation of VoIP phones have an impact on an existing Gigabit network? Will the phones be powered from the Ethernet Switch, PoE injector, or power supply at the desktop?
5. The WAN: Will VoIP be deployed on the Wide Area Network as well as the LAN? Is the current router capable of supporting the extra traffic with Quality of Service? Is my DSL circuit, Cable Modem, dedicated T-1, or Municipal Ethernet connection capable of handling the calls cleanly? Will a VPN be used between sites or for remote users?
6. Installation: What is the expectation regarding scheduling? Will any work be required after hours? Will there be an outage while the phone lines are cut over? Will there be any disruption to my business?  Are there separate charges for travel?
7. Training: Who will train the users and local administrator of the new system? How long will training take? Is follow-up training available and what does it cost? Is online training an option?
8. Financial: What are the terms and conditions of the sale?  Is financing an option?  Can the old system be traded in?
9. Support:  What is the system warranty?  Is there an extended warranty available?  Is advanced replacement of any defective equipment included?  Will software upgrades be required as time goes by? Is there a tech support hotline?  Is there any regular maintenance tasks required?  Will a live person be available to help with questions or problems?
10. The company:  How much experience does the vendor have with the new technology?  How many successful deployments of the same brand and scale?  Are references available?  Can I speak with the manufacturer about the vendor?  How satisfied are other customers with the service they have received?

Of course there are many other questions and factors to consider when buying something as important as a phone system.  This is just a sampling of a few questions in each category.  It seems the most successful projects come about after some research which involves plenty of interview time between the vendor and customer.  While there is no such thing as one single perfect phone system for every organization, there is a phone system waiting that will be a perfect match for your organization.  The trick is to be able to know your own needs and get to know a phone system before you buy, so you know exactly what to expect after you do.

(C) 2010 Adam Bristol

The DSX-40 represents the next generation of DS Series platforms, and is designed for residential and small commercial applications. The system shares station equipment, IntraMail voice mail, and programming design with the DSX-80/160.

The standard DSX-40 configuration provides 4 CO/line ports, 8 digital station ports, 2 analog station ports, and 2 analog doorbox ports with relay controls. The system is easy to install and expands easily to 8 lines with 24 business phones or 18 single-line phones, or a mixture of both, via expansion cards.

Notable system features include:

• Built-in 2-port automated attendant, with multiple line greetings, and customizable dial action tables.
• Built-in caller ID information that can be logged at each extension and that can be sent to analog phones with caller ID capabilities.
• Workgroup features such as Call Coverage, Extension Hunting, Group Call Pick-up and Multi-Party Conference
• Intuitive system programming via DSX telephone or the System Administrator software, which is available for free download, from the DSX support website (link to www.necdsx.com)
• DSX IntraMail voice mail automated attendant that provides more advanced automated attendant features than provided by the built-in auto attendant. Available in either a 4-port x 8-hour, or 8-port x 16-hour configuration.

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make:  NEC
Model:  DSX-40
Type: TDM
SIP Trunks Supported:  No
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported:  No
Analog lines supported:  4
SIP extensions:  0
Analog extensions:  2
Initial users per unit:  10
Maximum users per unit:  24
Auto-Attendant & Voicemail:  Yes
Phones:  5
Desktop Application: 0
Mobility:  No
Remote Users: Optional
Conference Bridge:  No
ACD:  No
Multi-site networking:  No

PACKAGE PRICE: $1,799.00
Add phones: $149.00 each

Click here for additional information about the DSX-40 Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change.  Custom programming, installation, shipping available.

The DSX-40 represents the next generation of DS Series platforms, and is designed for residential and small commercial applications. The system shares station equipment, IntraMail voice mail, and programming design with the DSX-80/160.

The standard DSX-40 configuration provides 4 CO/line ports, 8 digital station ports, 2 analog station ports, and 2 analog doorbox ports with relay controls. The system is easy to install and expands easily to 8 lines with 24 business phones or 18 single-line phones, or a mixture of both, via expansion cards.

Notable system features include:

• Built-in 2-port automated attendant, with multiple line greetings, and customizable dial action tables.
• Built-in caller ID information that can be logged at each extension and that can be sent to analog phones with caller ID capabilities.
• Workgroup features such as Call Coverage, Extension Hunting, Group Call Pick-up and Multi-Party Conference
• Intuitive system programming via DSX telephone or the System Administrator software, which is available for free download, from the DSX support website (link to www.necdsx.com)
• DSX IntraMail voice mail automated attendant that provides more advanced automated attendant features than provided by the built-in auto attendant. Available in either a 4-port x 8-hour, or 8-port x 16-hour configuration.

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make:  NEC
Model:  DSX-40
Type: TDM
SIP Trunks Supported:  No
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported:  No
Analog lines supported:  8
SIP extensions:  0
Analog extensions:  2
Initial users per unit:  18
Maximum users per unit:  24
Auto-Attendant & Voicemail:  Yes
Phones:  10
Desktop Application: 0
Mobility:  No
Remote Users: Optional
Conference Bridge:  No
ACD:  No
Multi-site networking:  No

PACKAGE PRICE: $2,795.00
Add phones: $149.00 each

Click here for additional information about the DSX-40 Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change.  Custom programming, installation, shipping available.

NEC designed the DSX hybrid key system from the ground up with affordability in mind. High-density circuitry maximizes economy per port. Native support for T1 and ISDN PRI provides maximum connectivity for a low initial investment. The DSX system offers high performance, flexibility and the ability to custom design a system that meets your company’s specific telecommunication requirements.Innovation starts with the new ergonomically styled DSX telephones. All models feature the same thin, floating design, two-position angle adjustment for effortless viewing of the large LCD display, and built-in wall mounting. Advanced features and intuitive soft keys provide users with one-button access to extensions, lines and system features. With many models to choose from, each user can enjoy customized service and performance.The DSX features a family of telephones that sets the new standard in office communications. All models include: 10 One-Touch Speed Dial Keys Dual Color Red/Green LEDs Built-in Speakerphone Built-in headset jack Enhanced models include a back-lit LCD display and illuminated keypad. Innovations continue with the DSX system. Right out of the box, the DSX has built-in Automated Attendant which answers incoming calls, plays a greeting, and allows callers to directly dial extensions and departments without operator assistance or additional equipment. Over a decade of rigorous feature development ensures that the core DSX call processing features are mature, efficient and reliable — yet intuitive and easy to use. Combined with end-to-end quality assurance and state-of-the-art circuit design, the DSX will be your reliable business partner for years to come.

 PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make:  NEC
Model:  DSX-80
Type: TDM
SIP Trunks Supported:  No
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported:  No
Analog lines supported:  8
SIP extensions:  0
Analog extensions:  2
Initial users per unit:  32
Maximum users per unit:  32
Auto-Attendant & Voicemail:  Intergraded two-port
Phones:  20
Desktop Application: 0
Mobility:  No
Remote Users: Optional
Conference Bridge:  No
ACD:  No
Multi-site networking:  No

PACKAGE PRICE: $4,535.00
Add phones: $149.00 each

Click here for additional information about the DSX-80 Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change.  Custom programming, installation, shipping available.

Designed for companies with up to 60 users, the Allworx 6x system is an all-in-one communication system integrating a feature-rich phone system, advanced IP phones and powerful software features that substantially improve your company’s productivity while saving you on-going monthly costs. The 6x is an excellent choice if you are evaluating new phone and PC network systems for any of these reasons:

• Upgrading an outdated phone system
• Business is moving or your needs are changing
• Need productivity features to make your business more efficient
• Looking to save 30-50% on your telephone and operational costs

Key Features

• Supports VoIP and traditional phone lines
• Use analog and VoIP phones
• PBX and/or Key system features
• Built-in nine auto attendants
• Internet access
• One (1) eight seat conference bridge
• Advanced software features support

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make: Allworx
Model: 6X version 7.0
Type: Unified IP/SIP
Analog lines supported: 6 POTS
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported: No
SIP Trunks Supported: Yes, with included license
SIP extensions / Users: 30
Maximum users per site: 60
Phones: Five 9212 IP Phones
Desktop Application: Call Assistant for Windows
ACD: Call queuing license
Conference Bridge: Eight party

PACKAGE PRICE: $2,529.00
Add 9204 phones: $243.00 each

Click here for additional information about the 6x Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change.  Custom programming, installation, shipping available.

Designed for companies with up to 60 users, the Allworx 6x system is an all-in-one communication system integrating a feature-rich phone system, advanced IP phones and powerful software features that substantially improve your company’s productivity while saving you on-going monthly costs. The 6x is an excellent choice if you are evaluating new phone and PC network systems for any of these reasons:

• Upgrading an outdated phone system
• Business is moving or your needs are changing
• Need productivity features to make your business more efficient
• Looking to save 30-50% on your telephone and operational costs

Key Features

• Supports VoIP and traditional phone lines
• Use analog and VoIP phones
• PBX and/or Key system features
• Built-in nine auto attendants
• Internet access
• One (1) eight seat conference bridge
• Advanced software features support

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make: Allworx
Model: 6X version 7.0
Type: Unified IP/SIP
Analog lines supported: 6 POTS
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported: No
SIP Trunks Supported: Yes, with included license
SIP extensions / Users: 30
Maximum users per site: 60
Phones: Ten 9212 IP Phones
Desktop Application: Call Assistant for Windows
ACD: Call queuing license
Conference Bridge: Eight party

PACKAGE PRICE: $3,799.00
Add 9204 phones: $243.00 each

Click here for additional information about the 6x Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change. Custom programming, installation, shipping available.

Designed for companies with up to 60 users, the Allworx 6x system is an all-in-one communication system integrating a feature-rich phone system, advanced IP phones and powerful software features that substantially improve your company’s productivity while saving you on-going monthly costs. The 6x is an excellent choice if you are evaluating new phone and PC network systems for any of these reasons:

• Upgrading an outdated phone system
• Business is moving or your needs are changing
• Need productivity features to make your business more efficient
• Looking to save 30-50% on your telephone and operational costs

Key Features

• Supports VoIP and traditional phone lines
• Use analog and VoIP phones
• PBX and/or Key system features
• Built-in nine auto attendants
• Internet access
• One (1) eight seat conference bridge
• Advanced software features support

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make: Allworx
Model: 6X version 7.0
Type: Unified IP/SIP
Analog lines supported: 6 POTS
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported: No
SIP Trunks Supported: Yes, with included license
SIP extensions / Users: 30
Maximum users per site: 60
Phones: 20 Model 9212 IP Phones
Desktop Application: Call Assistant for Windows
ACD: Call queuing license
Conference Bridge: Eight party

PACKAGE PRICE: $6,349.00
Add 9204 phones: $243.00 each

Click here for additional information about the 6x Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change. Custom programming, installation, shipping available.

Designed for companies with up to 150 users, the Allworx 24x system is an all-in-one communication system integrating a feature-rich phone system, advanced IP phones and powerful software features that substantially improve your company’s productivity while saving you on-going monthly costs. The integrated T1/PRI capability provides more cost savings and reliability than any other offer in the industry.
Traditional phone lines

Key Features

• T1/PRI circuit for voice
• Ethernet or T1 for ISP data service

• Supports VoIP, traditional phone lines and T1/PRI wire circuits
• Use analog and VoIP phones
• PBX and/or Key system features
• Built-in nine auto attendants
• Internet access
• Four (4) eight seat conference bridges
• Advanced software features support

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make: Allworx
Model: 24X version 7.0
Type: Unified VoIP/SIP
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported: Yes
Analog lines supported: 3 POTS
SIP Trunks Supported: Yes, with included license
SIP extensions / Users: 48 initially
Analog extensions supported: 5
Maximum users per site: 150
Phones: Twenty-Five 9212 IP Phones
Desktop Application: Optional Call Assistant for Windows
ACD: Optional Call queuing license
Conference Bridge: Optional four or eight party each

PACKAGE PRICE: $9,379.00
Add 9204 IP phones: $243.00 each

Click here for additional information about the 24x Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change.

Designed for companies with up to 150 users, the Allworx 24x system is an all-in-one communication system integrating a feature-rich phone system, advanced IP phones and powerful software features that substantially improve your company’s productivity while saving you on-going monthly costs. The integrated T1/PRI capability provides more cost savings and reliability than any other offer in the industry. Traditional phone lines Key Features

• T1/PRI circuit for voice
• Ethernet or T1 for ISP data service

• Supports VoIP, traditional phone lines and T1/PRI wire circuits
• Use analog and VoIP phones
• PBX and/or Key system features
• Built-in nine auto attendants
• Internet access
• Four (4) eight seat conference bridges
• Advanced software features support

PACKAGE OVERVIEW

Make: Allworx Model: 24X version 7.0
Type: UnifiedVoIP
SIP T-1/PRI digital trunks supported: Yes
Analog lines supported: 3 POTS
SIP Trunks Supported: Yes, with included license
SIP extensions / Users: 100 initially
Analog extensions supported: 5
Maximum users per site: 150
Phones: 50 Model 9212 IP Phone
Desktop Application: Optional Call Assistant for Windows
ACD: Optional Call queuing license
Conference Bridge: Optional four or eight party each

PACKAGE PRICE: $17,099.00
Add 9204 IP phones: $243.00 each

Click here for additional information about the 24x Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change.

Designed for companies with up to 150 users, the Allworx 24x system is an all-in-one communication system integrating a feature-rich phone system, advanced IP phones and powerful software features that substantially improve your company’s productivity while saving you on-going monthly costs. The integrated T1/PRI capability provides more cost savings and reliability than any other offer in the industry.
Traditional phone lines

Key Features

• T1/PRI circuit for voice
• Ethernet or T1 for ISP data service

• Supports VoIP, traditional phone lines and T1/PRI wire circuits
• Use analog and VoIP phones
• PBX and/or Key system features
• Built-in nine auto attendants
• Internet access
• Four (4) eight seat conference bridges
• Advanced software features support

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Make: Allworx
Model: 24X version 7.0
Type: Unified VoIP/SIP
T-1/PRI digital trunks supported: Yes
Analog lines supported: 3 POTS
SIP Trunks Supported: Yes, with included license
SIP extensions / Users: 100 initially
Analog extensions supported: 5
Maximum users per site: 150
Phones: 100 Model 9212 IP Phone
Desktop Application: Optional Call Assistant for Windows
ACD: Optional Call queuing license
Conference Bridge: Optional four or eight party each

PACKAGE PRICE: $29,849.00
Add 9204 IP phones: $243.00 each

Click here for additional information about the 24x Solution

NOTE: Some package prices are based on manufacturer’s specials and as such may be limited time offers or subject to change.