On Thu, Jun 21, 2012, at 08:00 PM, Craig wrote: > I looked on the Magic Jack website. They are somewhat short on details of > how it works, particularly with just plugging it into a wall receptacle.
I got the kind that has to be connected to a PC via the USB port (Mac or Windows only, no Linux support), and uses the computer's network connection. They do have a more expensive "Plus" version that is a stand-alone model; no PC required. It connects directly to a free port on your router. If you're looking at that version, there is at least one alternative, NetTalk. I don't know how they compare. Basically you buy the device, it comes with the first year of service pre-paid, you get assigned a phone number in your local area code (or any that you chose). You register your name and address with their E-911 service (I guess that's optional, but probably a good idea). You connect a regular household telephone to the device, and use it as normal. I think you can also use PC speakers/mic or a headset if you want. I have noticed that it takes a second or two after lifting the handset before you get a dial tone, but that's tolerable for me. Incoming calls ring the phone as normal. A couple of caveats: you have to leave your PC powered on and logged in; the Magic Jack software needs to be running. When the phone is in use, a window pops open on the PC, which displays the caller ID info (this doesn't seem to get passed to the phone though). The window also contains advertising. I really did no research before I bought this. I had canceled my home landline a few months ago, thinking I could get by with just cell service. However reception at my house is marginal, and has gotten worse in the summer (tree leaves blocking the signal?). So I saw this on sale at Best Buy and thought what the heck, I'll give it a try. So far so good. Allan _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://mail.okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
