vonage motorola VT2142-VD Phone adapter router Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I lost the plug to my Vonage device in a military move. The seller posted the product to me within 24 hours- even with me making the purchase late friday/early saturday, and it arrived within three days, which is a record for a package being shipped to an APO address! I would definitely use this seller again, as well as recommend Vonage to anyone. It's great living in the UK, having a local USA number to call family, and still be able to call my British phone numbers for free (landlines)!!

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Hawking Broadband Booster (HBB1) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Pros: Works as advertised - makes better use of limited upstream bandwidth.
Cons: A bit black-boxy. Not a whole lot of info out there on how it works - some reviewers test it all wrong.
Despite the lack of solid information, I took the plunge and got one - and I'm glad I did. In my opinion, this is the most innovative home networking product I've seen since the first broadband router came out.
Installation was a breeze - all you do is hook it up. It is the size of a deck of cards with 3 connections (network in, network out and a tiny transformer). Plug it in and it tests your upstream line speed. About 30 seconds later, the 4 lights come on and the thing is up and running.
One thing Hawking did which is really nice, is the last LED goes from green (indicating standard traffic) to bright, super intense blue when the booster does something to optimize the network traffic. Let me tell you, once it is plugged in, you'd be surprised how much that light stays blue.
What this thing does is to prioritize outgoing traffic. Outgoing, you say. Who cares, right? That's what I said until I hooked this thing up. The small, outgoing broadband upstream pipe (usually 128k - 384k) is pretty overloaded with all the Internet-aware applications we're all running these days, and the pipe gets used pretty inefficiently.
The official press states that the booster prioritizes the traffic, so more "time sensitive" requests such as voice-over-IP, gaming and certain UDP packets are sent out first. Bumped to the bottom are the HTTP web page requests, FTP traffic and so forth. This is seems to do as advertised.
What was not advertised (and was quite surprising) is what happened when only ONE machine is on the network. We turned on my wife's computer and she connected to work via a Citrix connection - which is always extremely slow even when noone else is on the network. I shut down all the other machines on the network to ensure it was as slow as normal, then I installed the booster. When she reconnected, the booster's little blue light came on and hardly went out. The remote session became as responsive as working with a non-remote machine! Three days later, she is still happy. Now I'm just guessing, but it seems as if the booster is not only prioritizing, but is actually combining the barrage of small, outgoing packets of data into larger ones.
I didn't go crazy and bog down the network with a ton of artificial activity - plenty of other folks have tried that. I did fire up two more machines with browsers and my XBox Live. They had no effect on the Citrix session and my XBox Live session (voice and gaming) seemed a bit more zippy than normal.
A friend at work did some similar tests on his network and was equally blown away by the results.
Bottom line... I'd whole-heartily recommend this to anyone who:
1. Has more than one machine running on their home network. I'm guessing it would help a lot if you had kids doing any sort of file sharing.
2. Has a single machine performing a lot of Internet-related activity that you want prioritized (e.g. FTP's to the back of the line).
3. Anyone who runs remote connections a lot - I will definitely be recommending this to folks at work that complain about slow Citrix and Remote Desktop connections.

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BROADBAND BOOSTER

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Wilson Electronics 801247 Desktop (DT) Cell Phone Signal Booster for Home or Office - For Multiple Users Review

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(More customer reviews)No matter whose providing our cell phone service, dead zones still seem to be an issue. The overpriced and underachieving booster that my service provider billed us for was absolutely worthless. In short, after four days use I boxed it up and sent it back for an account credit. When the opportunity came along to take the Wilson Electronics 801247 Cell Phone Signal Booster for a test drive I had some serious doubts.
Opening the box, the first thing I noticed was the hard plastic body casing for both the exterior antenna and the amplifier. Speaking from personal experience I know that the exterior antenna unit will have a short lifespan against the elements unless it is weather proofed. Corrosion will definitely have an effect on the connectors. Vulcanizing tape, electrical tape and Scotch coat is a must if this product is installed outdoors. My other gripe is the design of the cradle. Its a given that the cradle will accumulate standing water which could result in damage to the unit.
That said, I did a quick inventory of hardware that included the DT amplifier, amplifier antenna, exterior antenna, mounting hardware, barrel connector, ac power supply, and both 20' and 30' coaxial cables. Kudos to the folks at Wilson for providing a detailed and readable instruction manual. Tools that will come in handy if mounting outdoors including the protection that I mentioned earlier are a drill, 3/16" bit, phillips head screwdriver and an adjustable wrench. After determining the location of the strongest signal, I opted to mount the exterior antenna inside on a facing window.
Just a reminder to mount the front of the antenna so that it faces outside (which is the logo side) and not in the direction of the amplifier. To keep the system from oscillating and shutting down, I placed the amplifier about 20 feet away from the antenna. Always point the onboard antenna backwards towards the exterior antenna. The flashing of the red light means the gear is too close to each other and the unit will shut down. The green light means all systems are go. Luckily we got this model up and running after only two tries.
Now the important test. In the same space and about 10 feet away from the amplifier I opened my cell phone and got a surprise. Instead of getting the customary one bar for this location, I had the full compliment. That has never happened here. Conversations were crisp and clear. Instead of turning up my volume to hear the other party, I had to lower the volume on my phone. That is a first. To further test this system, I left the office, closed the door and walked down the hall to the soda machine which is about an additional 30 feet away. Even though I lost a couple of bars, my reception was still clear.
It goes without saying that this product is far superior then the overpriced piece of junk that my cell phone provider shipped out to me. The Utah based manufacturer backs this system with a one year warranty and also a 30 day money back guarantee. The company website is somewhat basic but offers great links to various product operating manuals, tech support and a toll free customer service number.
In closing, my only disappointment remains with the overall design of the exterior antenna and cradle. Still this booster delivers on a great signal. With proper installation (weatherizing) this Wilson Electronics product may just be the right choice for those of us that can't hear you now.

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Designed to give the best results when used in a single room, the Wilson Electronics Desktop (DT) Cell Phone Signal Booster increases your cell phone's signal by more than 15 times. It significantly improves your cell phone's overall performance by minimizing dropped calls, increasing data rates, and letting you enjoy clearer reception, making the Wilson DT the ideal solution in an office or at home.
Multiple mounting options ensure you'll get the best possible signal. View larger.It's All About PowerThe primary cause of dropped calls is low signal output power from the cell phone to the cell tower, which limits the phone's ability to communicate with the tower. A typical cell phone provides merely one-fifth of a watt of output power. To address this problem, the amplifier and the outside antenna work together to increase the phone's output power by more than 15 times over using just the phone alone.
Enjoy Premium Reception and Fewer Dropped CallsIf you have to go to the window or outside to be able to use your cell phone, you know the frustration of weak cell phone signal reception. Using state-of-the-art technology, the Wilson DT amplifies the signal both to and from the cell tower, increasing the power to penetrate through natural or man-made obstructions, thus enabling you to communicate where you were unable to before.
The Wilson DT comes with a compact signal booster that fits neatly on your desk or small table, and it works best when placed in the room where you're experiencing problems with reception.
Included Hardware for Multiple Mounting OptionsThe Wilson DT is connected via a coaxial cable to the outside antenna, which performs best when mounted outside of the building and pointed towards the nearest cell tower. The antenna may also be mounted on a window (again, best when aimed at the nearest cell tower), or on an outside wall; however, some performance may be lost.
Once installed, the Wilson DT enhances the signal of multiple cell phones and data cards near the device. The result is that you will experience fewer dropped calls, clearer call quality, and improved data rates--even with 3G technologies.
Compatible with Most Cell Phone Models and ProvidersThe Wilson DT is compatible with all US and Canadian cellular providers, excluding iDEN, Nextel, and MIKE. Also, it supports CDMA, TDMA, GSM, and AMPS cell phone technologies, as well as data protocols such as GPRS, 1xRTT, HSDPA, EVDO, and EDGE. The use of radio distribution equipment that enhances, extends or amplifies a wireless signal may be prohibited without the consent of the wireless carrier upon whose network such equipment will be used. You should consult with your carrier before purchasing such equipment to use with that carrier's service.
The Wilson DT Signal Booster includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and is backed by a one-year manufacturer's warranty.
Specifications
Frequency: 824-894 MHz / 1850-1990 MHz
Amplifier Gain: 56dB / 56dB
System Gain: 62dB
Max Output Power: 1.3 watts
Max RF (downlink): +9.5dBm
Noise Figure: 3.5dB nominal
Flatness: ±5dB
Isolation: > 90dB
Power Requirements: 120-240V AC, 50-60 Hz, 8W
Connectors: TNC Female / F-Female
Dimensions: 6.2 x 4.2 x 1.5 (inches)
Weight: 0.64 lbs

What's in the BoxIncludes everything you need for a full installation DT amplifier, on-board antenna, outside antenna, coaxial cables (20 feet and 30 feet), cable connector, wall bracket, mounting hardware for pole, wall or window mount, and AC power supply.

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NETGEAR SPH200W WiFi Phone with Skype Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This review concerns only the SPH200W; I don't know anything about the earlier SPH101.
I was hesitant to buy this product based on reviews, but I went ahead and got it, expecting to have to do some troubleshooting.
The product has been completely satisfactory to me. The phone is adequately sturdy, battery life is quite long long (I power the phone down when I'm on the move to keep it from searching for networks, and I get 3-5 workdays of standby out of one charge), and call quality is fine. Incoming call clarity is superb; outgoing clarity isn't always great because of the mic placement and quality on this phone. Setting up the phone is easy and intuitive. The phone connects quickly and reliably to networks, and options for preferred networks, entering passphrases, etc., are many and easy. Making calls is very easy. As is clearly indicated on this product's box, there's no onboard web browser, so you can't authenticate on a network using a browser. If you just have to register hardware on a network you use (like I do at work), that's easy - use your computer to register, or just tell your IT person the MAC address of your phone, which is under the battery.
You can charge the phone using the included cradle which receives a male USB mini-A plug, or you can plug a USB mini-A cable directly into the phone. Netgear supplies you with an AC adapter which plugs into the wall and terminates with mini-A, so you can charge this phone like you would any mobile phone. There's also an A- to mini-A USB cable in the box, so you can charge from your computer if you need to. Both methods work with either the cradle or without it. Very versatile charging options.
Here's what I think will be useful to potential buyers -
Netgear's support is mediocre at best, and I couldn't get any info. from them about compatible headsets or batteries. Don't buy this phone expecting excellent support from the manufacturer. I did some legwork, and much research later, I have answers:
"Standard" headsets don't work with the SPH200W. You need a 4-pole plug, to start, and then not all headsets of this description will work. Nokia headsets have worked for me - I bought an HS-47 for peanuts, and it works great. This significantly improved outgoing call quality.
Batteries. No help from Netgear on this one, I'm sad to say. The battery for the SPH200W is lithium, 3.7V, and has 900mAh capacity. If you search for batteries which are interchangeable with Nokia BL-5C, you'll find one which will work. The Netgear battery is the shape of the BL-5C, and many BL-5C replacements are 3.7V (vs. 3.6) and some are higher capacity than the stock one (Lenmar makes one which is readily available and works very well with this phone). If you absolutely must have tons of battery life out of this appliance, get an extra battery and you'll be good to go for a long long time.
Other complaints of others:
1) "the speakerphone isn't hi-fi." It's true. Have you heard high-quality sound from a mobile phone's speaker? I never have. This works just fine; I can understand what callers are saying when I use the speaker. I don't listen to lossless audio playback on my phone.
2) "outgoing call quality is poor." Not quite true, though this is the SPH200W's weak point. It's often just as clear as a digital/cell connection, but sometimes it's obscured enough to be annoying. If you want to upgrade, spend a few bucks and get a good headset. If this still doesn't satisfy you, wait for the next generation of wi-fi phone technology.
3) "battery life is terrible." Not true. If "less than 9 days of standby" is "terrible," then I guess I can see what folks are saying here. You get plenty of talk/standby time out of this battery, and it's very easy to keep it charged up with all the options you have. Extra batteries are also easy to come by.
I'm glad Netgear is producing VoIP equipment. This is a good piece, and I recommend it to anyone who is weaning him/herself from a 2-year wireless contract.

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Unlimited Free Wireless Calls to Skype Users, Without a PC. Make and receives Skype phone calls wherever you have Wi-Fi access. Works with most leading Wi-Fi hotspot providers including T-Mobile USA. Lets you talk for free to other Skype users without a PC. Calls any phone worldwide at low SkypeOut rates and NO MONTHLY FEES. Works with security protected home WiFi networks. The SPH200W is compatible with leading hotspot providers that support the WISPr (Wireless Internet Service Provider Roaming) protocol, including T-Mobile USA. A list of WISPr hotspots can be found at www.netgear.com/hotspots. NETGEAR neither operates nor guarantees the continual availability or compatibility of Wi-Fi hotspots. Subscription or usage fees may apply for Wi-Fi hotspot usage. Wi-Fi hot-spots requiring browser-based authentication are not supported. For calls made through Skype and/or the SkypeOut service. Terms and conditions of the Skype services are subject to change at any time in the sole discretion of Skype Limited. The Skype service is offered and operated solely by Skype, and NETGEAR does not guarantee Skype service availability, quality or pricing. No emergency callingemergency calls will need to be made by alternative methods. This phone will not function during a power failure or broadband outage. Use of Skype software, SkypeOut and/or SkypeIn is subject to Skypes terms of service and end user license agreement.

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LG Octane Phone (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a decent phone for a feature phone. Its not amazing, but its not awful either.
Pros:
-Easy to navigate and use
-Comfortable to handle
-Does not turn off or on when in a pocket or purse
-Does not pocket dial when in a pocket or purse
-Can use your own music as ringtones stored on a MicroSD card
-QWERTY keyboard
Cons:
-Internal keyboard too flat- makes it hard to distinguish buttons from one another
-Messages are threaded but the complete message does not show at once unless it is very short. Means an extra click to read the full message if the first 2 lines don't jog your memory.
Would I buy it again when this one dies? Probably not. But it'll do for now. I use it primarily for texting (3000+ texts a month) and rarely for talking (less then 2 hours a month).

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Get your thumbs on the LG Octane for Verizon Wireless and enjoy effortless on-the-go messaging and updates to your social networks. Slim and sleek, the candybar-style Octane's back flips open to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard and 2.6-inch internal color LCD. It also features an HTML web browser and a Favorites Key that enables you to connect with your ten most frequent contacts in a flash.

The LG Octane is compatible with the V Cast Music with Rhapsody service, which enables you to purchase songs through your phone and download them via the fast Verizon Wireless 3G EV-DO data network, and the V CAST Video on Demand service that enables you to watch full-length TV shows plus news, sports, weather, and live entertainment video clips. You'll also stay on course thanks to the VZ Navigator GPS turn-by-turn direction service. And with the optional Visual Voice Mail service, you'll be able to quickly and easily scroll through your messages and pick the ones you want to listen to. See more details on optional Verizon Wireless services below.

Other features include a 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, microSD memory expansion (up to 16 GB), multi-format music player, personal organizer tools, compatibility with Skype Wi-Fi calling, threaded text messaging, and up to 6.3 hours of talk time.

Key Features
Fast 3G connectivity thanks to the reliable Verizon Wireless EV-DO, Rev A network
GPS navigation capabilities via VZ Navigator service
Social Beat Widget offers a single point for accessing social networking sites, allowing you to stay connected to Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace plus more than 50 news, sports, and entertainment feeds.
Favorites shortcut keys for quick access to up to 10 contacts with picture ID
Skype Mobile compatibility provides unlimited Skype-to-Skype calls and IM while in the U.S. to anywhere in the world. Plus, with Skype Mobile you get low rates to international land lines and cell phones (requires Skype account).
Internal 2.6-inch LCD screen (320 x 240 pixels, 262K color depth) viewable when flipped open to reveal QWERTY keyboard.
External 1.76-inch LCD screen (220 x 176 pixels, 262K color depth)
Full QWERTY keyboard for fast messaging
Large widely spaced external keys for easy dialing
3.2-megapixel camera with up to 3x digital zoom,
Video capture capabilities with two resolution options, smile shot function that automatically takes a picture when a smile is detected, panorama mode, customizable brightness and white balance, image editor, and dual display activation for self portraits.
Music player with music library, repeat and shuffle features. Compatible with MP3, WMA, and unprotected AAC/AAC+ formats.
Dual speakers for stereo sound
Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP Bluetooth profile--enabling you to wirelessly stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones or speaker dock.
Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 16 GB.
Full messaging capabilities including Mobile Email, Corporate Email, Mobile Web Mail, Mobile IM, and Chat Capable
Threaded bubble messaging groups messages to/from a contact in time order and wrapped in bubbles.
HTML web browser
Organizer tools including calendar, to do list, alarm clock, stopwatch, world clock, notepad, EZ tip calculator
Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
USB connectivity with mass storage capabilities
Speakerphone
Bilingual interface (English/Spanish)
Voice commands
Phone book with up to 1000 contacts
2.5mm headset jack
TTY/TDD support
Hearing Aid Compatibility = M4

Vital Statistics
The LG Octane weighs 4.5 ounces and measures 4.21 x 2.16 x 0.63 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 6.3 hours of talk time, and up to 340 hours (14+ days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV-DO, Rev A 3G frequencies.

What's in the Box
LG Octane handset, rechargeable battery, wall/USB charger, quick start guide


Verizon Wireless Services
Reliable 3G Network: With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.)

VZ Navigator Capable: With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.

Visual Voice Mail: This innovative service enables you to delete, reply, and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.

V CAST Music with Rhapsody: Access this exclusive digital music service for RealNetworks and for MTV Networks, which delivers unlimited monthly access to music on up to three Rhapsody-compatible mobile phones and players and online on multiple PCs and Web browsers. For a monthly fee (billed on your Verizon Wireless bill), you can load and reload your subscription songs from your PC to your V CAST Music with Rhapsody phone as often as you want, and take your music on the go.
On PCs running the Windows XP or higher operating system, you can also browse, preview, and purchase music using the V CAST Music with Rhapsody software, which is available as a free download from the V CAST Music with Rhapsody download website. Additional subscription charges applicable.

Mobile Broadband Connect: Use your smartphone as a modem for your notebook when you connect the two using a USB cable--or open a Bluetooth connection--enabling you to access the Internet or your company intranet. The Mobile Broadband Connect tethered modem capability is ideal when you're traveling and need to use your notebook to check e-mail, access corporate networks, or download large files like presentations and reports. And with Mobile Broadband Connect, you won't have to buy an extra PC Card or other devices.

Family Locator: Securely locate your family members' locations from your Verizon Wireless device or the web. The locate feature provides you with the information you need to stay aware and stay in touch, including detailed location information and the address of your family members displayed on an interactive map and the option to receive turn-by-turn driving directions to your family member's location using VZ Navigator. You can also receive updates when your family members leave or arrive at locations that you define such as school, soccer practice, or home, with monitored locations set up within a 1/4-, 1/2-, or a 1-mile radius.

VZW Backup Assistant: Automatically back up your mobile contacts to your online address book. If your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged, or you decide to upgrade, easily restore your saved address book to your new phone. You can also add, delete, edit, and print your contacts online and send the changes to your mobile phone.

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Cables4PC USB Skype VoIP to PSTN (RJ11) Cordless Phone Adapter Support SIP, Skype MSN Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I ordered this to make skype calls with an old fashioned dial tone desk phone. It works perfectly, calls are crystal clear and the phone rings and clicks over when landline calls come through. It works great on my vista machine. Just make sure to configure skype to use this "USB device" for the speakers and microphone. Now I have long distance blocked on my landline and make all my calls through skype for 2.99 a month for unlimited calling to the us and canada. This device also works with cordless phones as well.

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Phone Power Broadband Phone Service Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I transferred my Vonage phone service to Phone Power. After about a month of service, I couldn't be happier. The call quality is great compared to Vonage and I no longer have audio problems which constantly plagued us where the audio would only work in one direction. We even tried switching the Vonage adapter and my cable modem and router without any success. Phone Power on the other hand worked immediately, my phone number was transferred on the day that they stated and is staffed and operated in the US, unlike Vonage which outsources tech support overseas.
Another great benefit is the free virtual 2nd line option which allows you to make and receive two calls at once with your primary phone number. The USB phone adapter for your computer is also very handy and you can plug a standard phone into it just like Magic Jack or use a headset and mic. Another little known fact is that you can get a soft phone which support will provide if you ask and you just install the software on your computer (does not require the USB adapter) that allows you to make and receive phone calls with your headset and mic.
Phone Power has a voice mail fax option as well which will send you a fax even if you don't have a physical fax machine and picks up during a voice mail if it hears a fax tone.
So far I highly recommend Phone Power, the service has been excellent and customer service great as well. I am on the two year plan for $199.00, not including taxes and haven't looked back at Vonage and don't miss it at all. Additional lines are reasonable also, unlike Vonage which charges the same price as your primary line.


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Motorola Mobile Phone Tools US 3.0 - Mini USB, Compatible with RAZR V3, Q Phone, PEBL, V180, V220 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This software is complete waste of money. It is slow, the fields don't sync properly, it doesn't connect with the phone most of the time, the calendar doesn't work - the list goes on. There is other PC sync software that does the trick for fraction of the price. If you are a Mac OS X user, you are in luck - Apple's active sync allows you to choose your phone model, and syncs the phone fields beautifully for free! At the end I even got rid of my Motorola and switched back to Nokia - their FREE PC Suite software gives complete PDA functionality to any Nokia phone. Shame on Motorola's software developers!

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RCA RC920 Wireless Phone Jack Extension Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using a set of these for over a year, and they are a godsend but not perfect. The good news; I use it to connect my Tivo (Tivo needs to dial in every night to update its program data) and it was the perfect solution for a tough spot, since there's no phone jack anywhere near my television. I have also used it to surf the web with a dial-up connection, with no real problems. Its fine, even through an extension cord! The bad news; I've tried to use for a phone, and that rally didn't cut it. It worked, but its a bad connection. I couldn't tolerate it. So I dispute the earlier comment that it can't be used for data. For me, its only use is for data, not voice! For certain situations, its ideal.

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The RCA RC920 wireless phone jack extension is an accessory to the RCA RC926 wireless phone jack, the GE926, and the D916. This compact extension unit converts your existing electrical outlet into a phone jack, without the need for tools or wiring.
If you have already installed a compatible wireless phone jack system in your home or office, simply plug in the RC920 extension into your wall outlet to automatically create another phone jack. A green LED on the side of the unit indicates that it is functioning normally. A reset button lets you change the location of the phone jack or switch phones.
The RC920 features built-in surge suppression and is ideal for placing a phone anywhere an extension phone jack is not readily available. The RC920 is compatible with corded and cordless phones, answering machines, fax machines, and computer modems. It also support call forwarding, call waiting, three-way calling, conference calling, and speed dialing.
The RC920 is very easy to install. Just plug the unit into your AC wall outlet, attach your phone cord, and begin use. Once a compatible system is installed, you can add as many RC920 units and phones as you need.

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Samsung SGH-A237 Charging USB 2.0 Data Cable for your Phone This professional grade custom cable outperforms the original Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The product is great as far as it was intended and offers much more than I will use. The CD that is shipped with it is trash and does not work, my computer made such a howl when I tried to install the software on it that I will not ever put that thing in my HP CQ60 Presario laptop again. I run Windows Vista Home Premium 32 bit. I was able to download the Samsung PC Studio 3 utility from the Samsung Web site which is needed to use the datacable to connect the Samsung A237 phone to a computer. This was free.
The datacable is well worth the price at Amazon and allows the maintenance of information on the phone using the Samsung PC Studio 3 utility. This cable allows the phone to be charged via the USB port on the computer it is connected to as well as use the phone as a modem for connecting to the Internet. Ring tones can be downloaded from computer to the phone and managed also. Information on the phones SIM, phonebook, addresses, calendar, messages, and mulitmedia files can all be managed from a computer screen using PC Studio 3.


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Ooma Core VoIP Phone System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been a Vonage customer for three years and suffered through all of their growing pains. At $25 a month though for unlimited service I thought I would check to see what other options were available and decided on giving Ooma a try.
The Ooma hardware is well designed, with thoughtful touches like a built in speaker for listening to voicemail and a brightness control so that you can turn down the brightness of the unit in a bedroom. The hardware comes wonderfully packaged like a product from Apple and includes just about any of the cords you might need to get everything connected with your existing service.
Setup was quite easy. You have to get online and activate the Ooma Hub unit by entering the MAC address on the bottom of the unit and telling Ooma what kind of service setup you are doing, such as whether you will use Ooma with an existing line, get a new phone number, etc. They don't even need your credit card and you are activated.
If you are getting a new phone number then you are essentially done at this point. You get a new phone number to use, and you connect the Ooma hub to your home network. Ooma recommends you put the Ooma hub between your Cable or DSL modem and your home router (if you have one). The reason for this is that it allows the Ooma unit to manage your outbound internet traffic and make sure your phone calls are optimized ahead of other traffic, so that phone calls always have priority, sound good and work properly.
If you have a more sophisticated home network router than can do traffic shaping, recognition of IP audio, etc (some of the top of the line D-Link models have these "QoS" features built in) then you can simply plug the Ooma hub into such a router and get good results.
After plugging in the Ooma to your home network you simply connect a home phone to the Ooma unit and you are pretty much ready to go. There is an "ooma music" dial tone you will hear when you make or receive a call. This is one of the ways Ooma lets you and others know you are using their system and is sort of a free advertising that lets people know you are using this service.
You can plug the Ooma hub back in to one of your home wall jacks and then connect the Ooma scout unit in to another jack in the house so that you can use a 2nd phone there. The scout can even be configured to only ring on a 2nd line, have it's own voicemail, etc... this is possible because the Ooma hub has a built in DSL network system in it that allows it to communicate with the scout units over your home phone wiring. This is very sophisticated compared to other VoIP vendor offerings. You can add up to about 20 scouts on the system and keep adding lines, etc, but obviously there are bandwidth and practical limits that you might run into in such a scenario.
If you are porting a number things get a bit more complicated. After indicating I wanted to port my number I was informed on their website that I needed to call them to complete the porting process. The agent I reached was a bit confused and kept insisting I should just use my existing phone service with Ooma. About the 3rd time of telling him I just wanted to get my number ported he got the paperwork started up. They email you some forms a few days after activation that you need to fill out and fax in to get your number ported, which takes a few weeks. In the interim you are assigned a temporary number to use and you can plug your existing line into the Ooma hub and it will take your inbound calls and route them through the Ooma system. There is a $40 charge for porting your existing number but Ooma will waive this fee if you sign up for the $99 premier service that includes a 2nd phone number plus additional features. Ooma advertises that you can keep your original home service as a backup line, so that your phone works even if the Internet is down, but in my experience Internet service is at least as reliable as my old school home phone line. Anyways, it's your choice.
In my case I elected to port my number, but didn't connect my old line to the Ooma Hub (as the agent insisted I do), I simply forwarded the number to the temporary phone number that Ooma assigned to me during the porting process.
Ooma offers a full suite of software features such as "simulring" (ring a cell or 2nd line at the same time your Ooma phone is ringing), magical "2nd phone line" from another phone on the system when the 1st line is busy, etc. You can control your entire Ooma system from the "Ooma Lounge" which is basically a web page you can access from anywhere that lets you control your Ooma system, features, additional numbers, caller ID, etc. You can learn a lot more about these features on Ooma's website so I won't go into them in great detail since this review is long as it is.
Sound quality on the Ooma is very very good. My mom who is used to hearing me talk on my Vonage line immediately noticed how much better the service was. Sound quality should be excellent provided you connect the Ooma equipment properly.
I would strongly recommend this service to anyone with even a basic technical ability. If you simply need the "basics" of phone service such as call waiting, caller ID and voicemail, Ooma will be a one time purchase. Their premium services are also very nice and reasonable at only $99 a year (sure beats paying Vonage $300 a year for similar features).
One question that keeps coming up is how Ooma can make money with this model. The answer is that Ooma makes money when you buy the system hardware and also makes money when you subscribe to the $99 premium service. There's no saying that they won't increase the price of the premium services at some time in the future. Also, I wouldn't be surprised to see Ooma come up with new tempting hardware offers down the road such as better "scout" and "hub" units that offer features such as video calling between Ooma subscribers.
I am a voice over IP engineer and can certainly recommend the Ooma service, it's a great option compared to spending $30-$60 a month for basic phone service with your local phone company. Ooma supports E-911 for emergency calling, and if you are really worried about having a phone line during a power outage simply connect your cable modem, Ooma Hub and cordless phone system to a UPS Battery Back UP and you will have power for at least an hour during a power loss since all those devices will be running on battery.
I highly recommend this product and the model that Ooma are starting to put together to move beyond the "bell head" phone system that we all grew up with.
12/16 update//
I wanted to provide an update to my review and answer a few additional questions. My number port was completed by Ooma almost exactly three weeks after the request which is fantastic. When the porting request is completed you start to log into the Ooma Lounge with your "real" phone number versus the temporary one that Ooma assigns to you.
I had no issues setting up my 2nd line either. Simply select from available numbers in the area code of your choice and tell Ooma how you want the call handled when it comes in (if you want it to ring to a particular hub/scout, have its own voicemail, etc). Now on to a few questions and/or mis-information I have seen about the Ooma system.
1. I have seen a lot of posts comparing Ooma to Magic Jack. There is no comparison. Magic Jack is a USB adapter that requires a PC running 24/7 to handle your phone calls. PC crashes, no phone. Want multiple lines/scouts... too bad. The Magic Jack is a toy compared to Ooma. Additionally Ooma's basic features are far superior to Magic Jack and requires NO FEES! With Magic Jack you do have to pay annual fees for unlimited calling. So Ooma will actually be cheaper in the long run for most users!
2. I have also seen reviews indicating that Ooma works well, but choppy voice is experienced when using the Internet. This is caused by incorrect installation of the Ooma hardware. Ooma hub must be installed BETWEEN your cable modem and your home router or it cannot prioritize your telephone calls for good quality! The only exception is if you have a home router that prioritizes your voice traffic, such as some higher end models. If in doubt you must put the Ooma directly behind your Cable or DSL modem to get the optimum performance!
3. I have also seen people comment that you can't use multiple phones with the Ooma system. This is only partially correct. If you want to use scouts and the features they offer (have a 2nd or 3rd number ring in to a scout, etc) then yes, you would need a scout for each phone you want to use with Ooma. However, if you just want a "shared line" (like regular home telephone service) then you can simply plug your Ooma Hub into your home phone jack and plug in as many other phones as you want. This will prevent some of the advanced features from working, but will basically work like a Vonage system, etc. Obviously many people have multiple handset wireless systems these days so they will just plug their wireless base station into the Ooma Hub and use scouts for other phones.
4. Someone asked me the question if I work for Ooma since I've commented in many reviews. The answer is no, I don't work for Ooma but I am a very satisfied customer and a voice over IP engineer with 13 years of industry experience. Ooma is the best residential voice over IP system I've ever seen and I very much would like them to succeed and offer their superior service for decades to come. The only way this will happen is with strong word of mouth advertising from professionals such as myself!
2/28 update//
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In a volatile economy, there's one utility you can save with the aid of VOIP technology - your phone service costs. Smart and stylish, the ooma Hub and ooma Scout partner with your high-speed Internet and your existing home phones to deliver free home phone service. Your one-time purchase eliminates monthly bills for U.S. calling and delivers extremely low rates for international calls. Your one-time purchase of an award-winning ooma Hub device frees your phone service. Call anyone, at any number, anywhere in the U.S. without charge. Think how much you pay the phone company each year. Now imagine what you could do with all the money you save. Ooma is the only company in the history of the telecom industry that lets you own your dialtone. Your one-time ooma purchase eliminates monthly charges for unlimited US calling. Compared to other stand-alone VoIP providers, there are no monthly fees for US calling. Plus, the ooma system has been architected to deliver exceptional voice quality and reliability, giving you the crisp, acoustic performance of a landline, without the associated fees. A number of our customers have reported that ooma delivers "excellent voice quality," "better than landline." Easy-to-read manuals are full of colorful diagrams and simple instructions to make set-up as painless as possible. It takes the average customer less than 20 minutes to activate and install the ooma system. Using the ooma system is even easier! ooma devices have been designed to provide an intuitive out-of-box experience. Ooma can move your number from your current phone provider for a one-time fee of $39.99. To use the ooma Hub device, you need TWO things: 1. A high-speed Internet connection (cable/DSL/fiber-optic); and 2. A home phone. Try out ooma's enhanced calling features with a free trial of ooma Premier, which includes a free second phone line, real-time message screening, one-touch Do Not Disturb and Send to Voicemail, a second personal number with private voicemail, and more.

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Vonage VDV21-VD - Router - VoIP gateway - desktop Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)In fairness, I am a new Vonage customer, having signed up April 27, 2009. Within 48 hours after signing up, I received this new adapter (paid $9 and change for it - was a Vonage deal) and hooked it up to an ethernet switch. Hooked up a corded phone to the device, and had dial tone. I kept this hook-up for 3 weeks, making LOTS of phonecalls and sending faxes to be sure I was ready to say bye-bye to my Verizon landline ($42 a month and never touch the phone for an outgoing call because of the costs involved). I have a networked setup: Modem --> Wired Router --> Ethernet Switch --> Vonage adapter. (I also have a wireless access point connected to my wired router,just to be precise.)
There are 3 PCs hard-wired and 1 wireless laptop. My cable provider is Cablevision (Optimum Online) at 10Mbps down and 3Mbps up.
Service is great. You could not tell between Vonage or the landline. The only issue I had was with faxing via my Canon MP780 all-in-one (outgoing faxes would not complete), and that wound up being just a matter of shutting down and re-starting my Canon. If you have this issue, please do not make yourself crazy changing your fax baud rates or ECM to off until you shut down your fax, remove all cables, replace cables and restart your fax. When I changed my baud rate from 33000 to 9600 because of many, many threads on the net, my fax capability was completely crippled. Now, it works great. And I don't have a dedicated fax line, it's done through my regular voice VOIP line.
After the 3 weeks, we cancelled the landline, disconnected the incoming Telco lines from the house, and then plugged the Vonage adapter into our phone jacks which back-feeds the signal through all of the phone jacks.
I have spoken to customer service for matters relating to my office (which also uses Vonage on 3 lines) and customer service has always been helpful and polite and there pretty much without a wait. Nice to have them available 24 hours, 7 days a week, if you did need them (better have a cell phone too though -- duh!)
I also have the line split and going to my Dish Network ViP722 DVR, which enables the ViP722's on-screen caller id. (So it is compatible--could not confirm this prior to trying it myself.)
As for complaints from others about bad sound quality, please realize that the service will be as good as your internet connection. If you don't have a stable, strong connection -- do not bother with VOIP. And, DSL filters can interfere with the signal, so read up on that. And never, ever plug these adapters into telephone jacks that still have Telco lines connected to them outside -- you can short out your equipment.
I got the $9.95 a month for 3 months deal, and thereafter it will be $24.99 (approx. $32 with tax). I did not port my home telephone number because the Vonage site informed me it was not available, but I was able to search through loads of telephone numbers and pick one that was memorable. Yes, I am in it for 2 years or I will fax a $39.99 disconnect fee. But, as far as I concerned, Verizon violated me for years with its fees and nickel-and-diming for every feature and call. I have to say that I wanted to try Vonage when it first came out, but was hesitant. Since my office has had it for over 2 years now, I decided to just do it myself.
Besides the many features listed on the website, you have access to alpha features like Vonage Fax (free outgoing faxes through your PC) and Vonage Talk.
Also, others here have complained that your trial starts as soon as you order, even though you don't have your adapter yet -- but you immediately can make calls through your computer with a headset. They assign a temporary number if you are porting your own, and the service and online features are instantly accessible.
And, as for the disconnect fee of $39.95, it's still less than what your cell phone provider would charge, so what's the big deal? You can't have everything.
Oh, the adapter...forgot what I was reviewing! The adapter is great. You have an orange backlit screen that shows the date and whether you have missed calls. It has built in caller-id, and you can initiate a call-back right from the adapter itself (your home phone will ring to tell you it's calling the number back). It has some other features too, like calling weather and traffic for free, and you can call your voicemail too.
Highly recommended. If you want to try it, try to do so without porting your number (check if you can port it free after you're sure it works well for you.) Try it risk-free (but keep an eye on the calendar!).


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