Not too long ago, I posted about ESI’s line of Cordless Handsets.  They were flexible, easy to use, and had a ton of features.  Now, they’re even better.

Introducing the ESI Cordless Handset II.  Like its predecessor, it comes in a digital version, local IP (LAN) version, and remote IP version.  Like the original version, it’s no ordinary cordless phone like you would get at Best Buy; with ESI’s cordless handsets, you have access to features like transfer, hold, conference, call record, voicemail, call page, door unlock and more without having to remember any feature codes.  You can also easily access or view the status of lines and other phone users thanks to several programmable, lighted buttons.  Here’s how the Cordless Handset II improves on the original:

• No more “large” and “small” versions of the phone: the new phone is the smaller size only.  Enhanced design also allows for the external antenna to be absent, further reducing bulk.
• Greatly enhanced battery life versus the original: fully charged, the new model allows for up to 16 hours of talk time, and about 7 days of standby time.
• Advanced DECT 6.0 technology allows for higher security, crystal-clear audio quality, and minimized or zero interference from Wi-Fi or other devices.
• 8 programmable buttons, versus 4 for the original model.
• Built-in speakerphone (the original did not have a speakerphone).
• Optional repeaters to extend wireless coverage over larger areas or between floors in a building.

One thing I love about the DECT 6.0 technology this phone uses is that it is so clear-sounding due to its digital transmission.  It also uses a different frequency band than other phones (1.9 GHz), and when it does encounter another device in that spectrum, it negotiates with it quickly and silently so that the devices do not interfere with each other.

Some of the more knowledgeable readers out there may ask, “Why 1.9 GHz?  Isn’t that taking a step backward from the relatively new 5.8GHz phones, or even the 2.4 GHz phones that came out before that?”  The answer is simple.  Higher frequencies are not always better–in fact, the higher the frequency in general, the harder it is for the signal to pass through solid objects like walls.  To compensate for this, manufacturers of the 2.4 GHz and 5.8GHz phones tend to boost the signal strength of the phone, which takes more power, which shortens battery life (or requires a bigger battery).  By using a lower frequency, DECT 6.0 phones are actually at an advantage in a typical office environment.

In short, DECT 6.0 is the latest, greatest technology, and paired with ESI features and technology, this phone is a winner.  But in order to take advantage of it, it must be used in conjunction with an ESI Communications Server phone system.  Fortunately, even small businesses can benefit from (and afford) a Communications Server.  If you’re in the Phoenix area and thinking about replacing an outdated phone system, give us a call.

Almost every phone system, universally, supports cordless phones when properly equipped with an analog station port.  These are the phones you can get practically anywhere and are primarily intended for home use.  Many phone systems, however, do not support cordless phones via a digital interface.  Why does this matter?  Features, and ease of use.

An analog interface to a phone system is a very simple one.  Cordless phones connected this way are generally able to make and receive calls, transfer, and that’s about the extent of it.  Sure, a lot of manufacturers allow you to do more by pressing the Flash button and dialing a code, but few people ever venture beyond the basic functionality because to try to do more is, well, a hassle.  Even putting a call on hold is usually a chore, because you can’t see by looking at the phone what line a call is on, to be able to pick it back up.

This is where digitally-interfaced cordless phones come in.  These phones can communicate digitally with the phone cabinet, allowing for much tighter integration, making for more features and a phone that’s much easier to use.  What features?  Well, let’s take an ESI Digital Cordless Handset, for example:

This baby is small and light, making it very portable.  Though you can’t quite make it out from the picture, this phone has dedicated Hold, Redial, and Voice Mail buttons, as well as a button used for Transfer, Conference, or station programming depending on when you press it.  What’s really great are the 4 buttons along the bottom that can be used for almost anything, according to your needs.  Here is a partial list:

• Line buttons
• Extension buttons (including extension status)
• Company day/night/holiday mode
• Do Not Disturb
• Call Forward
• Overhead Page
• ACD (Automatic Call Distribution) agent logon/logoff
• ACD administrator for viewing ACD queue status
• Personal greeting switch
• Virtual Answer
• Door Unlock (used with Presence Management)
• Account code entry

The display indicates when you have new voicemail messages.  Also on the phone is one-button access to change the volume (including ring volume), as well as mute.  There is a micro-mini headset port at the top, which supports generally the same headsets you would use for a cell phone.

In addition to the digital version of this phone, a local IP version is available (for inside the building), and a remote IP version is available for off-site.  All three versions operate in the same way, with full functionality.  The remote IP version will also allow you to connect a phone line (for example, if you’re using it at home), so that you have the choice of making local calls if you wish (otherwise, calls are routed via your office lines).  There is also a slightly larger version of this phone (in all 3 flavors) which offers longer battery life and an extended range.