Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
When the power goes out, you have no phone, like during a lightning storm, very common here in Texass. Hence the reason we no longer use earthlink phone, vonage phone, timewarner phone, skype phone, etc. Of course your cell will work if it's charged :) All of these computer based phones are only practical as supplements to another system. --- On Sat, 1/2/10, phartz...@gmail.com phartz...@gmail.com wrote: From: phartz...@gmail.com phartz...@gmail.com Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Date: Saturday, January 2, 2010, 4:56 PM On Sat, Jan 2, 2010 at 2:24 PM, tjpa t...@tjpa.com wrote: You old folks may not have noticed, but a modern household is going to have a small computer sitting where the telephone used to sit. It will be running Skype 24/7. Hey, what if that computer is a Windows machine? Isn't it going to be locking up, crashing or falling victim to viruses all the time? How the heck could that thing possibly be up and running 24/7? Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
But it works by the laptop microphone and speakers without any device plugged into the phone jack …take it from me, I took MagicJack to the EU and no phone and it worked fine just like that!! -Original Message- From: Marcio [mailto:m...@ix.netcom.com] Sent: Sunday, January 03, 2010 12:49 AM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question I am not sure how this can be done. In the Magic Jack devise there is an outlet for the phone line. Marcio -Original Message- From: rleesimon rleesi...@gmail.com Sent: Jan 2, 2010 5:30 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question If you plug in magic jack on computer, internal mic and spkr are all you need (I have IBM Thinkpad). Needs no fone. Dial on screen with mouse or via phonebook. -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes [mailto:f...@his.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 9:21 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question The most modern phone you have that works on POTS is a corded handset. I suspect one could also use a cordless handset, if one were to plug the base station into the MagicJack. (just as the base station is plugged into the RJ-11 wall outlet the same way that a corded handset is plugged into a wall outlet.) You just couldn't use a cordless handset by itself, without the base station. What the information is telling you is that the MagicJack does _not_ include its own handset. Nor does it use a headset (like Skype does). Nor does it use a USB speakerphone (like is available for Skype). It uses a POTS telephone, connected by the customary cord with an RJ-11 plug on the end. Anything that electrically looks like a POTS telephone connected with an RJ-11 plug should work. Dunno if it would accept pulse dialing, haven't tried it. But so much calling requires DTMF signalling for navigating menus that pulse dialing has limited use today anyway. Corded handset and rotary [pulsed] dial are two completely different concepts. Fred Holmes At 06:39 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
The real usefulness of magicjack is you can register it at the area code in the USA you wish despite being somewhere else ...that way, anyone who calls you using the magic jack phone number from the us in that area code makes a usually free local call and you receive the call in Brazil or wherever you are without further fees at all. If you are in the USA and have family in Brazil who must call you, you can leave them your magic jack and they can call to your USA phone number (for instance, if you visit the USA and get a cheap cell phone at WalMart or 7-11 store with prepaid sim card) for no charge!! I am pretty sure they will not ship abroad. You need a credit card. You simply have it mailed to a friend in the USA who forwards it to you!! -Original Message- From: Marcio [mailto:m...@ix.netcom.com] Sent: Sunday, January 03, 2010 12:46 AM To: rleesimon Subject: RE: MagicJack: a VoIP question Will look at it Marcio -Original Message- From: rleesimon rleesi...@gmail.com Sent: Jan 2, 2010 5:40 PM To: 'Marcio' m...@ix.netcom.com Cc: 'Computer Guys Discussion List' COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: RE: MagicJack: a VoIP question Messages from phonepower.com come as .wav file in email...also stored online on pwd protected site with usage, etc. -Original Message- From: Marcio [mailto:m...@ix.netcom.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 10:44 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question Yes, Fred I get the messages by e-mail and open them with Nero. I also cancall my number at MagicJack and listen to the messages and erase them. Marcio -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes f...@his.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 8:59 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question Yes and no. If you leave your VOIP (e.g. MagicJack) always at one specific premises and register that premises with that telephone number at 911 (there is a process for doing this), then you will have reliable 911 service, just as landline numbers are registered with 911 (but the registration is done by the telephone company). But one of the advantages of MagicJack is that you can connect it to your notebook computer wherever you may carry and use it. There is no way (except manually) to change the 911 registration at present. There may be some way to do a lookup on the i.p. address of your computer, to determine where it is actually connected, but such a system hasn't yet (to my knowledge) been set up. If you connect your MagicJack to your notebook computer that is connected to the Internet anywhere (e.g., Iraq), calls that you place to the U.S. are free (no call placement or connection time charges) (unless for some reason VOIP packets are somehow killed.) It's also nice that voice mail messages received on VOIP systems can be sent to you by e-mail as .wav file attachments. Nice to be able to keep and file them, and not have the message memory fill up and overflow. Fred Holmes. At 06:13 PM 1/1/2010, Judy Cosler wrote: does one have reliable 911 with VoIP? thought one needed a landline for reliable, available 911. Pls. help me with this issue! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Yes but only Skype to Skype...for free. Marcio -Original Message- From: t.piwowar t...@tjpa.com Sent: Jan 2, 2010 3:00 AM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question Don't forget that you can also get VOIP services like Skype at zero cost. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
On Jan 2, 2010, at 4:46 AM, Marcio wrote: Yes but only Skype to Skype...for free. You old folks may not have noticed, but a modern household is going to have a small computer sitting where the telephone used to sit. It will be running Skype 24/7. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I have it. I used it in Europe with an IBM x31 notebook with dsl speed internet ...it is flawless! No fone needed, used computer speakers and mic ...but, of course, you need to have the computer on and connected to a wifi source to use it. I also have phonepower.com device at home. Computer can be shut off as phone modem is behind router. Works flawlessly. If you buy now at bestbuy stores, you also get a pocket travel device for it which was not available when I got it. Service very good, reliable, cheap (1yr=199, 2nd year free) and had 10% off when I got it (around $8/mo) ...of course magic jack is cheaper but I wanted to be able to shut off computer... -Original Message- From: Robert Carroll [mailto:carrollcompu...@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 6:39 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question For my earlier message, a P.S. (1) Is there a source for info about VoIP in general, not just related to MagicJack. I am under the impression that only those who make many long-distance calls, especially international calls, can benefit from subscribing to VoIP since the cost of domestic long-distance calls is so cheap nowadays. (The web and email makes the need for long-distance calls less frequent for me.) What telephone number would someone use to call me on VoIP? (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? On Fri, Jan 1, 2010 at 6:00 PM, Robert Carroll carrollcompu...@gmail.comwrote: In the 2010 February issue of Consumer Reports, there are tests of 15 items sold on TV infomercials that use hard-sell language. As one may suspect, most items did not live up to the claims made therein. But one got a favorable review, the MagicJack for connecting to VoIP. The review follows below. I have only a general knowledge of VoIP. Can someone point me to a source that offers specific info so that I may decide if having VoIP is advantageous for me? The CU review: *The claim.* MagicJack, a VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) phone device and service,makes your monthly phone bill disappear, an online ad says. Save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars and get no more poor reception. You plug MagicJack into a computer's USB port, plug the line cord of your own phone into the other end of the USB adapter, and MagicJack uses the Internet to make and receive calls. You need broadband Internet access, and the computer has to be on for you to make or receive a call. If it's off, messages go to voice mail. The charge: $39.95 for the device and one year of local and long-distance calling; then $19.95 per year. Details are at www.magicjack.com. *The check.* One of our electronics experts made dozens of calls over several days, sometimes while downloading files or playing online computer games. *Bottom line*. Shazam! Calls connected, and voice quality was clear, though not as clear as on a good corded phone on a regular line. When our tester downloaded a big file while playing an online game and making a call, there was some interference. But if you can live with a few limitations, it's a great deal. Vonage VoIP service can cost $216 a year; Skype, $95, and you must buy a Skype phone. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
If you plug in magic jack on computer, internal mic and spkr are all you need (I have IBM Thinkpad). Needs no fone. Dial on screen with mouse or via phonebook. -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes [mailto:f...@his.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 9:21 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question The most modern phone you have that works on POTS is a corded handset. I suspect one could also use a cordless handset, if one were to plug the base station into the MagicJack. (just as the base station is plugged into the RJ-11 wall outlet the same way that a corded handset is plugged into a wall outlet.) You just couldn't use a cordless handset by itself, without the base station. What the information is telling you is that the MagicJack does _not_ include its own handset. Nor does it use a headset (like Skype does). Nor does it use a USB speakerphone (like is available for Skype). It uses a POTS telephone, connected by the customary cord with an RJ-11 plug on the end. Anything that electrically looks like a POTS telephone connected with an RJ-11 plug should work. Dunno if it would accept pulse dialing, haven't tried it. But so much calling requires DTMF signalling for navigating menus that pulse dialing has limited use today anyway. Corded handset and rotary [pulsed] dial are two completely different concepts. Fred Holmes At 06:39 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Messages from phonepower.com come as .wav file in email...also stored online on pwd protected site with usage, etc. -Original Message- From: Marcio [mailto:m...@ix.netcom.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 10:44 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question Yes, Fred I get the messages by e-mail and open them with Nero. I also cancall my number at MagicJack and listen to the messages and erase them. Marcio -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes f...@his.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 8:59 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question Yes and no. If you leave your VOIP (e.g. MagicJack) always at one specific premises and register that premises with that telephone number at 911 (there is a process for doing this), then you will have reliable 911 service, just as landline numbers are registered with 911 (but the registration is done by the telephone company). But one of the advantages of MagicJack is that you can connect it to your notebook computer wherever you may carry and use it. There is no way (except manually) to change the 911 registration at present. There may be some way to do a lookup on the i.p. address of your computer, to determine where it is actually connected, but such a system hasn't yet (to my knowledge) been set up. If you connect your MagicJack to your notebook computer that is connected to the Internet anywhere (e.g., Iraq), calls that you place to the U.S. are free (no call placement or connection time charges) (unless for some reason VOIP packets are somehow killed.) It's also nice that voice mail messages received on VOIP systems can be sent to you by e-mail as .wav file attachments. Nice to be able to keep and file them, and not have the message memory fill up and overflow. Fred Holmes. At 06:13 PM 1/1/2010, Judy Cosler wrote: does one have reliable 911 with VoIP? thought one needed a landline for reliable, available 911. Pls. help me with this issue! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack
All that confirmed. -Original Message- From: Tourbus Rider Stuart Carlow [mailto:noodni...@aol.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 9:31 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack Stewart says: None of the major VOIP carriers offer a local number so it is of no use for incoming. As I already bundle my phone service and have unlimited dialing plus all the calling features plus have an international plan it makes no financial sense to me. Until a VOIP service offers local numbers I cannot look at any of them. However with MagicJack you select the area code you want to use and the company then assigns you a number within that area code. If you choose, for example, 202, that's very local. You can travel with the MagicJack, and if you use it overseas, you still have the USA connection with (for example) the 202 area code. You can also change your phone number at the my.magicjack.com website. I believe changing it once is free, and there's a charge for changing it more than one time. I have done that once (no charge). (BTW, if most of your family is in CA you can choose a CA area code and then their calls to you will be local.) * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Phonepower.com works without computer and the 911 feature works. -Original Message- From: Tony B [mailto:ton...@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 10:42 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question Actually, that's two questions. First, you may use your existing telephones with MJ, but you don't have to. It comes with an interface that easily switches to headset so any headset (or mic and speakers) can work. No, pulse dialing is ancient history. You could not dial a number from a rotary phone downstairs and connect. But again, using the provided software, you can just punch numbers on the software keyboard and dial while sitting at your computer. My own experience with MJ has been spotty. I would vastly prefer a unit that connects to my router, like I had with Vonage. Then it would stay on 24/7 and wouldn't interrupt my gaming on my computer. However, at discounted prices of something like $5 a year, it's all I can reasonably afford. I just don't use a phone that much, and not at all for international dialing. I don't really know how reliable the 911 is; I mean, it's not like I can test it or anything. But in my 55 years I've never called 911 (from home) so I'm not going to base my telephone decisions on that. Besides, right now there are some 10 people on IMs (Facebook, Yahoo, etc.) that I could gasp out a Call 911! and they'll do it. I could also just send a text to the wife's cell phone, but she might not get it for a few hours. Oh well, I've lived long enough. :) On Fri, Jan 1, 2010 at 6:39 PM, Robert Carroll carrollcompu...@gmail.com wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I have uniden BT capable wireless fone and it is wired backwards via house wiring to phonepower.com modem ...gives me phone all over the house. Have one wired fone on it in case of loss of power. Phonepower.com will also work with old fashioned fax machine. Phonepower.com also has a cloned 2nd line which lets you make/receive calls when one conversation is already in process ...free!! -Original Message- From: Marcio [mailto:m...@ix.netcom.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 10:46 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question I have a Vtech cordless phone with two basis. Work fine. Marcio -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes f...@his.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 9:21 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question The most modern phone you have that works on POTS is a corded handset. I suspect one could also use a cordless handset, if one were to plug the base station into the MagicJack. (just as the base station is plugged into the RJ-11 wall outlet the same way that a corded handset is plugged into a wall outlet.) You just couldn't use a cordless handset by itself, without the base station. What the information is telling you is that the MagicJack does _not_ include its own handset. Nor does it use a headset (like Skype does). Nor does it use a USB speakerphone (like is available for Skype). It uses a POTS telephone, connected by the customary cord with an RJ-11 plug on the end. Anything that electrically looks like a POTS telephone connected with an RJ-11 plug should work. Dunno if it would accept pulse dialing, haven't tried it. But so much calling requires DTMF signalling for navigating menus that pulse dialing has limited use today anyway. Corded handset and rotary [pulsed] dial are two completely different concepts. Fred Holmes At 06:39 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Skype only free when recipient also has skype ... -Original Message- From: t.piwowar [mailto:t...@tjpa.com] Sent: Saturday, January 02, 2010 12:01 AM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question Don't forget that you can also get VOIP services like Skype at zero cost. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
They make skype fones. Best solution is skype on your ifone or wm smartphone and pirate off neighbors unsecured wifi .hehee! ...after all is saiddone, when att and others get permission to get ridda pots ( some eyesore poles/wires), there may be a move afoot to make everyone who gets wifi for fone/computer/tv to have an open channel so the coverage grows... hmmm!! -Original Message- From: tjpa [mailto:t...@tjpa.com] Sent: Saturday, January 02, 2010 2:24 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question On Jan 2, 2010, at 4:46 AM, Marcio wrote: Yes but only Skype to Skype...for free. You old folks may not have noticed, but a modern household is going to have a small computer sitting where the telephone used to sit. It will be running Skype 24/7. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
On Jan 2, 2010, at 2:47 PM, rleesimon wrote: They make skype fones. I looked, but don't see the point. Computer has great mic and camera and big screen already built in. Why pay money for something that does so much less and still needs to be connected to a computer? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
On Jan 2, 2010, at 2:40 PM, rleesimon wrote: Skype only free when recipient also has skype ... You think it takes a lot of arm twisting to get somebody to sign up for a service that is free and saves them money? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
the idea is you can then take your free skype connection and walk around the house instead of being tied to the kitchen...or wherever you are keeping your computer. On Sat, Jan 2, 2010 at 1:27 PM, tjpa t...@tjpa.com wrote: On Jan 2, 2010, at 2:47 PM, rleesimon wrote: They make skype fones. I looked, but don't see the point. Computer has great mic and camera and big screen already built in. Why pay money for something that does so much less and still needs to be connected to a computer? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I've been looking for a Skype phone that isn't cordless/wireless (has a wired handset, and connects to my router with an Ethernet Cat-5 cable). Last time I looked (a couple of months ago), I couldn't find one. Using Google. Or the specs available on the web weren't such that I could tell what I would actually be getting if I ordered the item. I have no real need for cordless / wireless, and if I don't use cordless / wireless I don't have to worry about whether the cordless / wireless link has been adequately secured. Fred Holmes At 02:24 PM 1/2/2010, tjpa wrote: You old folks may not have noticed, but a modern household is going to have a small computer sitting where the telephone used to sit. It will be running Skype 24/7. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
secured? On Sat, Jan 2, 2010 at 4:13 PM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: I've been looking for a Skype phone that isn't cordless/wireless (has a wired handset, and connects to my router with an Ethernet Cat-5 cable). Last time I looked (a couple of months ago), I couldn't find one. Using Google. Or the specs available on the web weren't such that I could tell what I would actually be getting if I ordered the item. I have no real need for cordless / wireless, and if I don't use cordless / wireless I don't have to worry about whether the cordless / wireless link has been adequately secured. Fred Holmes At 02:24 PM 1/2/2010, tjpa wrote: You old folks may not have noticed, but a modern household is going to have a small computer sitting where the telephone used to sit. It will be running Skype 24/7. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * -- Judy * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Self contained stand alone skype fones for people with cable tv and get a bundled wifi or wired dsl or net and don't use the computer or want one or only have one in the kids' room... -Original Message- From: tjpa [mailto:t...@tjpa.com] Sent: Saturday, January 02, 2010 3:27 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question On Jan 2, 2010, at 2:47 PM, rleesimon wrote: They make skype fones. I looked, but don't see the point. Computer has great mic and camera and big screen already built in. Why pay money for something that does so much less and still needs to be connected to a computer? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
On Jan 2, 2010, at 5:56 PM, phartz...@gmail.com wrote: Hey, what if that computer is a Windows machine? Isn't it going to be locking up, crashing or falling victim to viruses all the time? How the heck could that thing possibly be up and running 24/7? Gosh, I wasn't thinking about Windows. No, I have not seen any of those at all. I wasn't thinking about computers used by OLD PEOPLE! Do they Skype at all? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
My mom is old...she skypes the daughter to see her and her grandson. Course old is always relative. On Sat, Jan 2, 2010 at 6:06 PM, tjpa t...@tjpa.com wrote: On Jan 2, 2010, at 5:56 PM, phartz...@gmail.com wrote: Hey, what if that computer is a Windows machine? Isn't it going to be locking up, crashing or falling victim to viruses all the time? How the heck could that thing possibly be up and running 24/7? Gosh, I wasn't thinking about Windows. No, I have not seen any of those at all. I wasn't thinking about computers used by OLD PEOPLE! Do they Skype at all? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
For free?... Marcio -Original Message- From: tjpa t...@tjpa.com Sent: Jan 2, 2010 5:24 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question On Jan 2, 2010, at 4:46 AM, Marcio wrote: Yes but only Skype to Skype...for free. You old folks may not have noticed, but a modern household is going to have a small computer sitting where the telephone used to sit. It will be running Skype 24/7. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I am not sure how this can be done. In the Magic Jack devise there is an outlet for the phone line. Marcio -Original Message- From: rleesimon rleesi...@gmail.com Sent: Jan 2, 2010 5:30 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question If you plug in magic jack on computer, internal mic and spkr are all you need (I have IBM Thinkpad). Needs no fone. Dial on screen with mouse or via phonebook. -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes [mailto:f...@his.com] Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 9:21 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack: a VoIP question The most modern phone you have that works on POTS is a corded handset. I suspect one could also use a cordless handset, if one were to plug the base station into the MagicJack. (just as the base station is plugged into the RJ-11 wall outlet the same way that a corded handset is plugged into a wall outlet.) You just couldn't use a cordless handset by itself, without the base station. What the information is telling you is that the MagicJack does _not_ include its own handset. Nor does it use a headset (like Skype does). Nor does it use a USB speakerphone (like is available for Skype). It uses a POTS telephone, connected by the customary cord with an RJ-11 plug on the end. Anything that electrically looks like a POTS telephone connected with an RJ-11 plug should work. Dunno if it would accept pulse dialing, haven't tried it. But so much calling requires DTMF signalling for navigating menus that pulse dialing has limited use today anyway. Corded handset and rotary [pulsed] dial are two completely different concepts. Fred Holmes At 06:39 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
In the 2010 February issue of Consumer Reports, there are tests of 15 items sold on TV infomercials that use hard-sell language. As one may suspect, most items did not live up to the claims made therein. But one got a favorable review, the MagicJack for connecting to VoIP. The review follows below. I have only a general knowledge of VoIP. Can someone point me to a source that offers specific info so that I may decide if having VoIP is advantageous for me? The CU review: *The claim.* MagicJack, a VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) phone device and service,makes your monthly phone bill disappear, an online ad says. Save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars and get no more poor reception. You plug MagicJack into a computer's USB port, plug the line cord of your own phone into the other end of the USB adapter, and MagicJack uses the Internet to make and receive calls. You need broadband Internet access, and the computer has to be on for you to make or receive a call. If it's off, messages go to voice mail. The charge: $39.95 for the device and one year of local and long-distance calling; then $19.95 per year. Details are at www.magicjack.com. *The check.* One of our electronics experts made dozens of calls over several days, sometimes while downloading files or playing online computer games. *Bottom line*. Shazam! Calls connected, and voice quality was clear, though not as clear as on a good corded phone on a regular line. When our tester downloaded a big file while playing an online game and making a call, there was some interference. But if you can live with a few limitations, it's a great deal. Vonage VoIP service can cost $216 a year; Skype, $95, and you must buy a Skype phone. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
does one have reliable 911 with VoIP? thought one needed a landline for reliable, available 911. Pls. help me with this issue! On Fri, Jan 1, 2010 at 6:00 PM, Robert Carroll carrollcompu...@gmail.comwrote: In the 2010 February issue of Consumer Reports, there are tests of 15 items sold on TV infomercials that use hard-sell language. As one may suspect, most items did not live up to the claims made therein. But one got a favorable review, the MagicJack for connecting to VoIP. The review follows below. I have only a general knowledge of VoIP. Can someone point me to a source that offers specific info so that I may decide if having VoIP is advantageous for me? The CU review: *The claim.* MagicJack, a VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) phone device and service,makes your monthly phone bill disappear, an online ad says. Save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars and get no more poor reception. You plug MagicJack into a computer's USB port, plug the line cord of your own phone into the other end of the USB adapter, and MagicJack uses the Internet to make and receive calls. You need broadband Internet access, and the computer has to be on for you to make or receive a call. If it's off, messages go to voice mail. The charge: $39.95 for the device and one year of local and long-distance calling; then $19.95 per year. Details are at www.magicjack.com. *The check.* One of our electronics experts made dozens of calls over several days, sometimes while downloading files or playing online computer games. *Bottom line*. Shazam! Calls connected, and voice quality was clear, though not as clear as on a good corded phone on a regular line. When our tester downloaded a big file while playing an online game and making a call, there was some interference. But if you can live with a few limitations, it's a great deal. Vonage VoIP service can cost $216 a year; Skype, $95, and you must buy a Skype phone. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * -- Judy * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I have been using it for two plus years. Although I am in Brazil I have a Los Angeles phone number. Call and am called by my daughters and son there. Works very well. Sometimes it skips a word or something. But otherwise, great. Marcio -Original Message- From: Robert Carroll carrollcompu...@gmail.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 6:00 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question In the 2010 February issue of Consumer Reports, there are tests of 15 items sold on TV infomercials that use hard-sell language. As one may suspect, most items did not live up to the claims made therein. But one got a favorable review, the MagicJack for connecting to VoIP. The review follows below. I have only a general knowledge of VoIP. Can someone point me to a source that offers specific info so that I may decide if having VoIP is advantageous for me? The CU review: *The claim.* MagicJack, a VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) phone device and service,makes your monthly phone bill disappear, an online ad says. Save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars and get no more poor reception. You plug MagicJack into a computer's USB port, plug the line cord of your own phone into the other end of the USB adapter, and MagicJack uses the Internet to make and receive calls. You need broadband Internet access, and the computer has to be on for you to make or receive a call. If it's off, messages go to voice mail. The charge: $39.95 for the device and one year of local and long-distance calling; then $19.95 per year. Details are at www.magicjack.com. *The check.* One of our electronics experts made dozens of calls over several days, sometimes while downloading files or playing online computer games. *Bottom line*. Shazam! Calls connected, and voice quality was clear, though not as clear as on a good corded phone on a regular line. When our tester downloaded a big file while playing an online game and making a call, there was some interference. But if you can live with a few limitations, it's a great deal. Vonage VoIP service can cost $216 a year; Skype, $95, and you must buy a Skype phone. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
There was a FCC directive on this some time ago that required VOIP providers to give reliable 911 service. Check with the provider to make sure. I am pretty certain Vonage and them had to do so, or shut down. This even came up with Cell phone this year locally when it came out that some of the providers were not giving the local 911 office the info required for enhanced 911 coverage. Stewart At 05:13 PM 1/1/2010, you wrote: does one have reliable 911 with VoIP? thought one needed a landline for reliable, available 911. Pls. help me with this issue! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
In answer to your questions: Whenever you sign up for a VOIP service you are assigned a phone number. They will give you (A.) a number based on the closest local exchange they offer. or (B.) a number based in an area code you choose, again based on the closest local exchange they offer. They do not provide phone numbers in all exchanges but this can usually be verified by going to their web site. If you want to cancel your old land line they can even port over that number in limited circumstances. Advantages is that it includes all the services you currently pay more for now on your local service, including caller ID, call forwarding, call blocking etc. Which can add up to a ton of money. (A standard single phone line will cost somewhere around 19.95-29.95 but when you add in all these services it usually runs between 50-70 (included long distance calling plans)) By corded it simply means it must connect with a telephone cord to it's phone distribution module. Any of the newer phones can work, but it must be the base station or single phone plugged in. No they do not recognize pulse dialing. If you have a multiple phone system, you can plug the base into the phone distribution module as your main phone and distribute the phone line over the other cordless modules. Stewart At 05:39 PM 1/1/2010, you wrote: For my earlier message, a P.S. (1) Is there a source for info about VoIP in general, not just related to MagicJack. I am under the impression that only those who make many long-distance calls, especially international calls, can benefit from subscribing to VoIP since the cost of domestic long-distance calls is so cheap nowadays. (The web and email makes the need for long-distance calls less frequent for me.) What telephone number would someone use to call me on VoIP? (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:popoz...@earthlink.net Prince of Peace www.princeofpeaceozark.org Ozark, AL SL 82 * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I use MagicJack as a second phone line for making outgoing calls. It works fine for me most of the time, but sometimes the call breaks up like some cell phone calls do. Not as reliable as POTS. It also requires a running computer to connect to the Internet. If you leave your computer on 24x7, then you can use it for incoming calls. Leaving a computer on 24x7 is not being green. I'd love to see a low-power device to replace the computer; maybe a netbook would do it. I might get around to trying one. A flat fee of about $20 per year (discounted for a 5-year purchase) covers all US/Canada calling. You may have as good a plan with some other carrier/process. Bandwidth of the signal with a call in progress is about 80 kbs. For a small investment, you can simply purchase one and try it, leaving your POTS line in place and operating. Just plug one handset into the MagicJack and see how it works. Fred Holmes At 06:00 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: In the 2010 February issue of Consumer Reports, there are tests of 15 items sold on TV infomercials that use hard-sell language. As one may suspect, most items did not live up to the claims made therein. But one got a favorable review, the MagicJack for connecting to VoIP. The review follows below. I have only a general knowledge of VoIP. Can someone point me to a source that offers specific info so that I may decide if having VoIP is advantageous for me? The CU review: *The claim.* MagicJack, a VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) phone device and service,makes your monthly phone bill disappear, an online ad says. Save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars and get no more poor reception. You plug MagicJack into a computer's USB port, plug the line cord of your own phone into the other end of the USB adapter, and MagicJack uses the Internet to make and receive calls. You need broadband Internet access, and the computer has to be on for you to make or receive a call. If it's off, messages go to voice mail. The charge: $39.95 for the device and one year of local and long-distance calling; then $19.95 per year. Details are at www.magicjack.com. *The check.* One of our electronics experts made dozens of calls over several days, sometimes while downloading files or playing online computer games. *Bottom line*. Shazam! Calls connected, and voice quality was clear, though not as clear as on a good corded phone on a regular line. When our tester downloaded a big file while playing an online game and making a call, there was some interference. But if you can live with a few limitations, it's a great deal. Vonage VoIP service can cost $216 a year; Skype, $95, and you must buy a Skype phone. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack
I've used one for a couple of years now. Generally it works very well although occasionally the sounds is a little garbled or a syllable may be dropped or I'll hear an echo. On rare occasion I'll have to call the party again and get a cleaner connection. I have Fios for internet connectivity. A relative in Boston has a DSL connection and there's more garbling or missing sounds than on my line. Then again, a friend in Columbia, MD has Comcast cable for his internet, and often calls that he places using the MagicJack are kind of garbled (sometimes sounds like he's under water). I believe that if you are doing much downloading or uploading during a conversation, that will will also degrade the voice quality. As far as 911 is concerned, yes you can place 911 calls, but I don't believe that the 911 folks can trace the call to your specific address. And of course (1) your computer has to be on at the time, and (2) you need electric power functioning in the house. For international calls, you have to open a prepaid account, to which you can add money as needed. But the calls are very cheap (Spain and England are about 2 cents/minute) and I've found them crystal clear -- even better than domestic calls. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I have looked into all of these and at present it makes no sense to me. None of the major VOIP carriers offer a local number so it is of no use for incoming. As I already bundle my phone service and have unlimited dialing plus all the calling features plus have an international plan it makes no financial sense to me. Until a VOIP service offers local numbers I cannot look at any of them. Stewart At 07:49 PM 1/1/2010, you wrote: I use MagicJack as a second phone line for making outgoing calls. It works fine for me most of the time, but sometimes the call breaks up like some cell phone calls do. Not as reliable as POTS. It also requires a running computer to connect to the Internet. If you leave your computer on 24x7, then you can use it for incoming calls. Leaving a computer on 24x7 is not being green. I'd love to see a low-power device to replace the computer; maybe a netbook would do it. I might get around to trying one. A flat fee of about $20 per year (discounted for a 5-year purchase) covers all US/Canada calling. You may have as good a plan with some other carrier/process. Bandwidth of the signal with a call in progress is about 80 kbs. For a small investment, you can simply purchase one and try it, leaving your POTS line in place and operating. Just plug one handset into the MagicJack and see how it works. Fred Holmes * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Yes and no. If you leave your VOIP (e.g. MagicJack) always at one specific premises and register that premises with that telephone number at 911 (there is a process for doing this), then you will have reliable 911 service, just as landline numbers are registered with 911 (but the registration is done by the telephone company). But one of the advantages of MagicJack is that you can connect it to your notebook computer wherever you may carry and use it. There is no way (except manually) to change the 911 registration at present. There may be some way to do a lookup on the i.p. address of your computer, to determine where it is actually connected, but such a system hasn't yet (to my knowledge) been set up. If you connect your MagicJack to your notebook computer that is connected to the Internet anywhere (e.g., Iraq), calls that you place to the U.S. are free (no call placement or connection time charges) (unless for some reason VOIP packets are somehow killed.) It's also nice that voice mail messages received on VOIP systems can be sent to you by e-mail as .wav file attachments. Nice to be able to keep and file them, and not have the message memory fill up and overflow. Fred Holmes. At 06:13 PM 1/1/2010, Judy Cosler wrote: does one have reliable 911 with VoIP? thought one needed a landline for reliable, available 911. Pls. help me with this issue! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Cell phones with GPS can report their location exactly. Primitive cell phones can only report what tower they are currently connected to. The issue with 911 service is how to handle a phone that is mobile, i.e., is used away from home. MagicJack can be used away from home. Connect it to your notebook computer, connected to the Internet wherever you like. But there is no way currently available to have that setup report its current location automatically. Fred Holmes At 06:22 PM 1/1/2010, Rev. Stewart Marshall wrote: There was a FCC directive on this some time ago that required VOIP providers to give reliable 911 service. Check with the provider to make sure. I am pretty certain Vonage and them had to do so, or shut down. This even came up with Cell phone this year locally when it came out that some of the providers were not giving the local 911 office the info required for enhanced 911 coverage. Stewart * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
At 06:39 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: (1) Is there a source for info about VoIP in general, not just related to MagicJack. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VOIP Google VOIP. Google whatever terms you don't understand when reading about VOIP. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
The most modern phone you have that works on POTS is a corded handset. I suspect one could also use a cordless handset, if one were to plug the base station into the MagicJack. (just as the base station is plugged into the RJ-11 wall outlet the same way that a corded handset is plugged into a wall outlet.) You just couldn't use a cordless handset by itself, without the base station. What the information is telling you is that the MagicJack does _not_ include its own handset. Nor does it use a headset (like Skype does). Nor does it use a USB speakerphone (like is available for Skype). It uses a POTS telephone, connected by the customary cord with an RJ-11 plug on the end. Anything that electrically looks like a POTS telephone connected with an RJ-11 plug should work. Dunno if it would accept pulse dialing, haven't tried it. But so much calling requires DTMF signalling for navigating menus that pulse dialing has limited use today anyway. Corded handset and rotary [pulsed] dial are two completely different concepts. Fred Holmes At 06:39 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack
Stewart says: None of the major VOIP carriers offer a local number so it is of no use for incoming. As I already bundle my phone service and have unlimited dialing plus all the calling features plus have an international plan it makes no financial sense to me. Until a VOIP service offers local numbers I cannot look at any of them. However with MagicJack you select the area code you want to use and the company then assigns you a number within that area code. If you choose, for example, 202, that's very local. You can travel with the MagicJack, and if you use it overseas, you still have the USA connection with (for example) the 202 area code. You can also change your phone number at the my.magicjack.com website. I believe changing it once is free, and there's a charge for changing it more than one time. I have done that once (no charge). (BTW, if most of your family is in CA you can choose a CA area code and then their calls to you will be local.) * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack
202 may be local, but mine is 334 which includes Montgomery (90 miles away) and a variety of other areas not even close. I can only dial 2 different exchanges and get a local call. Since my members all call my home # I need to keep it. Once the new cable company comes in this might change and I can get a purely local exchange #. (I would love to drop my local POTS service as it costs an arm and a leg, and they are not the best in the world.) VOIP works well for many folks no doubt. But when you are in a profession where folks expect to get ahold of you 24/7 and do not expect to dial a long distance # you must have a local exchange service. It is like many municipalities that require city workers to live inside the city limits. It is not that I do not like VOIP I would like to have the ability to use VOIP but only if it offers a local exchange # Different folks have different needs. When I travel I have my cell and my whole family including extended use one service (Verizon) se we pay no additional costs for calling. Stewart At 08:31 PM 1/1/2010, you wrote: Stewart says: None of the major VOIP carriers offer a local number so it is of no use for incoming. As I already bundle my phone service and have unlimited dialing plus all the calling features plus have an international plan it makes no financial sense to me. Until a VOIP service offers local numbers I cannot look at any of them. However with MagicJack you select the area code you want to use and the company then assigns you a number within that area code. If you choose, for example, 202, that's very local. You can travel with the MagicJack, and if you use it overseas, you still have the USA connection with (for example) the 202 area code. You can also change your phone number at the my.magicjack.com website. I believe changing it once is free, and there's a charge for changing it more than one time. I have done that once (no charge). (BTW, if most of your family is in CA you can choose a CA area code and then their calls to you will be local.) * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:popoz...@earthlink.net Prince of Peace www.princeofpeaceozark.org Ozark, AL SL 82 * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
No, I have a cordless phone. Of course I must connect the base with the cord at the MagicJack USB Connection. But this is all. Also I believe it has 911 because it warns me that because I am out of the USA the 911 will not work. Marcio -Original Message- From: Robert Carroll carrollcompu...@gmail.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 6:39 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question For my earlier message, a P.S. (1) Is there a source for info about VoIP in general, not just related to MagicJack. I am under the impression that only those who make many long-distance calls, especially international calls, can benefit from subscribing to VoIP since the cost of domestic long-distance calls is so cheap nowadays. (The web and email makes the need for long-distance calls less frequent for me.) What telephone number would someone use to call me on VoIP? (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? On Fri, Jan 1, 2010 at 6:00 PM, Robert Carroll carrollcompu...@gmail.comwrote: In the 2010 February issue of Consumer Reports, there are tests of 15 items sold on TV infomercials that use hard-sell language. As one may suspect, most items did not live up to the claims made therein. But one got a favorable review, the MagicJack for connecting to VoIP. The review follows below. I have only a general knowledge of VoIP. Can someone point me to a source that offers specific info so that I may decide if having VoIP is advantageous for me? The CU review: *The claim.* MagicJack, a VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) phone device and service,makes your monthly phone bill disappear, an online ad says. Save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars and get no more poor reception. You plug MagicJack into a computer's USB port, plug the line cord of your own phone into the other end of the USB adapter, and MagicJack uses the Internet to make and receive calls. You need broadband Internet access, and the computer has to be on for you to make or receive a call. If it's off, messages go to voice mail. The charge: $39.95 for the device and one year of local and long-distance calling; then $19.95 per year. Details are at www.magicjack.com. *The check.* One of our electronics experts made dozens of calls over several days, sometimes while downloading files or playing online computer games. *Bottom line*. Shazam! Calls connected, and voice quality was clear, though not as clear as on a good corded phone on a regular line. When our tester downloaded a big file while playing an online game and making a call, there was some interference. But if you can live with a few limitations, it's a great deal. Vonage VoIP service can cost $216 a year; Skype, $95, and you must buy a Skype phone. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
I have a Vtech cordless phone with two basis. Work fine. Marcio -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes f...@his.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 9:21 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question The most modern phone you have that works on POTS is a corded handset. I suspect one could also use a cordless handset, if one were to plug the base station into the MagicJack. (just as the base station is plugged into the RJ-11 wall outlet the same way that a corded handset is plugged into a wall outlet.) You just couldn't use a cordless handset by itself, without the base station. What the information is telling you is that the MagicJack does _not_ include its own handset. Nor does it use a headset (like Skype does). Nor does it use a USB speakerphone (like is available for Skype). It uses a POTS telephone, connected by the customary cord with an RJ-11 plug on the end. Anything that electrically looks like a POTS telephone connected with an RJ-11 plug should work. Dunno if it would accept pulse dialing, haven't tried it. But so much calling requires DTMF signalling for navigating menus that pulse dialing has limited use today anyway. Corded handset and rotary [pulsed] dial are two completely different concepts. Fred Holmes At 06:39 PM 1/1/2010, Robert Carroll wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Actually, that's two questions. First, you may use your existing telephones with MJ, but you don't have to. It comes with an interface that easily switches to headset so any headset (or mic and speakers) can work. No, pulse dialing is ancient history. You could not dial a number from a rotary phone downstairs and connect. But again, using the provided software, you can just punch numbers on the software keyboard and dial while sitting at your computer. My own experience with MJ has been spotty. I would vastly prefer a unit that connects to my router, like I had with Vonage. Then it would stay on 24/7 and wouldn't interrupt my gaming on my computer. However, at discounted prices of something like $5 a year, it's all I can reasonably afford. I just don't use a phone that much, and not at all for international dialing. I don't really know how reliable the 911 is; I mean, it's not like I can test it or anything. But in my 55 years I've never called 911 (from home) so I'm not going to base my telephone decisions on that. Besides, right now there are some 10 people on IMs (Facebook, Yahoo, etc.) that I could gasp out a Call 911! and they'll do it. I could also just send a text to the wife's cell phone, but she might not get it for a few hours. Oh well, I've lived long enough. :) On Fri, Jan 1, 2010 at 6:39 PM, Robert Carroll carrollcompu...@gmail.com wrote: (1) Information about MagicJack is appreciated. It seems from the CU description that a corded handset is needed -- I might be able to find buried in a closet an old rotary-dial phone for MagicJack (if I decide to get same) since all my land-line phones are cordless. Can MagicJack understand pulse dialing? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack
I am here in Brazil, I have a Los Angeles number where mu daughters are and we can call each other without having to pay by minute. They justcall my Los Angeles number... and I call their numbers. All included. Marcio -Original Message- From: Tourbus Rider Stuart Carlow noodni...@aol.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 8:46 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack I've used one for a couple of years now. Generally it works very well although occasionally the sounds is a little garbled or a syllable may be dropped or I'll hear an echo. On rare occasion I'll have to call the party again and get a cleaner connection. I have Fios for internet connectivity. A relative in Boston has a DSL connection and there's more garbling or missing sounds than on my line. Then again, a friend in Columbia, MD has Comcast cable for his internet, and often calls that he places using the MagicJack are kind of garbled (sometimes sounds like he's under water). I believe that if you are doing much downloading or uploading during a conversation, that will will also degrade the voice quality. As far as 911 is concerned, yes you can place 911 calls, but I don't believe that the 911 folks can trace the call to your specific address. And of course (1) your computer has to be on at the time, and (2) you need electric power functioning in the house. For international calls, you have to open a prepaid account, to which you can add money as needed. But the calls are very cheap (Spain and England are about 2 cents/minute) and I've found them crystal clear -- even better than domestic calls. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Yes, Fred I get the messages by e-mail and open them with Nero. I also cancall my number at MagicJack and listen to the messages and erase them. Marcio -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes f...@his.com Sent: Jan 1, 2010 8:59 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question Yes and no. If you leave your VOIP (e.g. MagicJack) always at one specific premises and register that premises with that telephone number at 911 (there is a process for doing this), then you will have reliable 911 service, just as landline numbers are registered with 911 (but the registration is done by the telephone company). But one of the advantages of MagicJack is that you can connect it to your notebook computer wherever you may carry and use it. There is no way (except manually) to change the 911 registration at present. There may be some way to do a lookup on the i.p. address of your computer, to determine where it is actually connected, but such a system hasn't yet (to my knowledge) been set up. If you connect your MagicJack to your notebook computer that is connected to the Internet anywhere (e.g., Iraq), calls that you place to the U.S. are free (no call placement or connection time charges) (unless for some reason VOIP packets are somehow killed.) It's also nice that voice mail messages received on VOIP systems can be sent to you by e-mail as .wav file attachments. Nice to be able to keep and file them, and not have the message memory fill up and overflow. Fred Holmes. At 06:13 PM 1/1/2010, Judy Cosler wrote: does one have reliable 911 with VoIP? thought one needed a landline for reliable, available 911. Pls. help me with this issue! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack: a VoIP question
Don't forget that you can also get VOIP services like Skype at zero cost. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack
On Fri, Jan 1, 2010 at 8:46 PM, Tourbus Rider Stuart Carlow noodni...@aol.com wrote: As far as 911 is concerned, yes you can place 911 calls, but I don't believe that the 911 folks can trace the call to your specific address. And of course (1) your computer has to be on at the time, and (2) you need electric power functioning in the house. Thanks for clarifying the 911 question for me. Yes, VOIP requires an up and running computer, and it has to be on to receive a call as it is coming in. That is a lot of gear to get or make a phone call. I have used VOIP previously, and still have an active account. However, I now have to use satellite internet service because of where I live, and VOIP is almost unusable by satellite unless the party on the other end knows how to deal with the delays caused by signals having to go up to and back down from the satellite. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] MagicJack pt2
First Impressions. After you guys tallked me into it, I just received the device today. They won't even charge my card for 30 days, assuming I don't return it first. Following the prompts, I received a working phone number within a few minutes. Well, by the time I plugged in the house phone and called the wife's cell anyway. My very first impression is Real Player on steroids. Virtually no Help, and a big-ass application (magicjack.exe) that runs IN YOUR FACE. You can minimize it, but as soon as someone calls it pops to the front, flashing ads in your face. The only ads seem to be their own. No live Help numbers. Not even a Help menu in the desktop app! I still have no idea how to migrate my old VOIP number, and found myself having to do a (fruitless) Google search. There's a first time free number change, but I haven't pressed it yet because I don't know if a failed attempt will run up the counter. I mean, until I disconnect from Vonage, how can they use my Vonage-assigned phone number? One of the ads they're flashing is an offer for 5 years of service for $60 (or thereabouts, it's gone now). I just don't see how something like this won't completely destroy the whole industry pricing schemes. I mean, even Vonage is trying to charge $15-$25 a month now. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack pt2
Funny, I had the lkongest chat (help) online with them and even printed it and received as e-mail. I thought it was quite good. There is a HELP on the top right. Marcio At 02:23 21/1/2009, you wrote: First Impressions. After you guys tallked me into it, I just received the device today. They won't even charge my card for 30 days, assuming I don't return it first. Following the prompts, I received a working phone number within a few minutes. Well, by the time I plugged in the house phone and called the wife's cell anyway. My very first impression is Real Player on steroids. Virtually no Help, and a big-ass application (magicjack.exe) that runs IN YOUR FACE. You can minimize it, but as soon as someone calls it pops to the front, flashing ads in your face. The only ads seem to be their own. No live Help numbers. Not even a Help menu in the desktop app! I still have no idea how to migrate my old VOIP number, and found myself having to do a (fruitless) Google search. There's a first time free number change, but I haven't pressed it yet because I don't know if a failed attempt will run up the counter. I mean, until I disconnect from Vonage, how can they use my Vonage-assigned phone number? One of the ads they're flashing is an offer for 5 years of service for $60 (or thereabouts, it's gone now). I just don't see how something like this won't completely destroy the whole industry pricing schemes. I mean, even Vonage is trying to charge $15-$25 a month now. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack pt2 II
You go to Menu, then help, the in the botton Life Person... I have done it. Worked fine. There are hundreds of FAQs also. Marcio At 02:23 21/1/2009, you wrote: First Impressions. After you guys tallked me into it, I just received the device today. They won't even charge my card for 30 days, assuming I don't return it first. Following the prompts, I received a working phone number within a few minutes. Well, by the time I plugged in the house phone and called the wife's cell anyway. My very first impression is Real Player on steroids. Virtually no Help, and a big-ass application (magicjack.exe) that runs IN YOUR FACE. You can minimize it, but as soon as someone calls it pops to the front, flashing ads in your face. The only ads seem to be their own. No live Help numbers. Not even a Help menu in the desktop app! I still have no idea how to migrate my old VOIP number, and found myself having to do a (fruitless) Google search. There's a first time free number change, but I haven't pressed it yet because I don't know if a failed attempt will run up the counter. I mean, until I disconnect from Vonage, how can they use my Vonage-assigned phone number? One of the ads they're flashing is an offer for 5 years of service for $60 (or thereabouts, it's gone now). I just don't see how something like this won't completely destroy the whole industry pricing schemes. I mean, even Vonage is trying to charge $15-$25 a month now. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
...the way it's hooked up the provider says it works when computer is off and does not consume more resources while not in use when computer is on ...of course it does when both are in use ...I try to avoid a big dld while on the fone as some chop results but not too bad ...I ain't no genius ...that's how they said to hookitup and it works great! I LOVE the price, clarity, and all the features ...I spoze when they come out with the portability feature, there will be a keychain type USB item for that. I am using my home fones the same way as always; the signal runs up the wires backwards with the interface outside the house disconnected. I had the fone company take down the 20 year old wire too! Next wire up will be if they hook up FIOS hereabouts. I live 5 min outside the county seat where FIOS just started this month, so it may come sometime. I do hope by then some other provider has that other than Verizon which has been twitchy since the bad old Bell Atlantic days; I am sooo glad to be rid of them! Other than fiddling with the splitter to get better performance, I have had no trouble with Comcast cable (YET)! -Original Message- From: Fred Holmes [mailto:f...@his.com] Sent: Friday, January 16, 2009 10:21 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack question At 01:49 PM 1/16/2009, RLeeSimon wrote: The phone modem is BEHIND my router; You emphasize behind. I assume that behind means on the client (LAN) side of the router, not on the WAN side, which is normal for all client devices. That's what behind means to me -- on the protected side. So what does the emphasis mean? Fred Holmes * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
I'm paying 2 cents/minute for calls to Europe using POTS. Are you lower than that? What's your service? Do you use a phone card or dial-around number? We dial 10-10-something-something-something before we dial the Euro number. Call quality is normal. The charge comes on our regular phone bill. A big saving for doing practically nothing. No sign up. No dongle to carry. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
1.7c to all my family in Belgium on PhonePower ...they also had a sale in December for the whole month calls to a coupla dozen countries free ...beat that! (I didn't know Apple owned POTS)...hehee! I just checked on the service we use and I see they have jacked up their rates. It looks like my wife did not notice it. Thank you! This I have to fix. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
I haver a MagicJack and I like it. It rings OK. I did not know that it opened its window in the screen. Oh, yes, when you make a call it does too. They have a good technicaç support and you can talk with them online. They also have a lot of FAQs.. Marcio .At 02:52 16/1/2009, you wrote: I doubt you can disable the notice to any effective degree. Without of course, disabling the telephone. Simply unplug the MJ. A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. On Thu, Jan 15, 2009 at 11:19 PM, Kelly J. Morris kjmli...@comcast.net wrote: I bought MagicJack for my son, who is a gamer. It works fine, except that instead of just ringing when there is an incoming call, it opens a big new Window onscreen and prevents him from continuing to play until he closes it. Has anyone had any experience with MagicJack? Is there a way to disable this feature? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. Fred Holmes * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
I dunno, but remember - Magic Jack requires a dongle to run. Specifically, it requires *a whole gd computer*. Cynics would simply point out that, once you have the computer, you don't _need_ the Magic Jack to do VOIP. Besides, who wants to leave their computer on all the time just so their phone will work? If you've got MJ, can you tell the OP how to disable the incoming call popup? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
At 10:34 AM 1/16/2009, Tony B wrote: I dunno, but remember - Magic Jack requires a dongle to run. Specifically, it requires *a whole gd computer*. Cynics would simply point out that, once you have the computer, you don't _need_ the Magic Jack to do VOIP. But you can carry the Majic Jack dongle with you and plug it into any computer, anywhere, that has broadband access (so it's advertised, I haven't tried it). The dongle is an interface. Vonage requires an interface. You can't plug a telephone RJ-11 plug directly into the RJ-45 jack on a router. How big is the Vonage interface/dongle? Can you take it with you and plug it into any router anywhere? Does it require independent AC power? The Magic Jack is powered from the USB port. One does need to remember an account number and password (IIRC, maybe just a password) for first installation of Magic Jack on a particular computer, but that's it. The software needed to run Magic Jack is stored in ROM in the dongle. I don't use the Magic Jack for hot incoming calls. If the party calling me leave a voice mail message, I receive an e-mail message with the voice mail message attached as a .wav file. (maybe mp3?) That's good enough for my purposes. It's an extra phone line at home. So both my wife and I can be on the phone at the same time. And saves $ for toll calls. Measured bandwidth used by the Magic Jack is approx 80kb -- a little bit faster than a 56kb dialup modem, but a very small fraction of the bandwidth available from any kind of broadband connection. Fred Holmes * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
I've had one for almost a year- never had such a problem. Eschew Obfuscation This is a reply from: Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. Financial, Managerial, and Technical Services for the Professional, Non-Profit, and the Entrepreneurial Organization 703.548.1343 voice 703.783.1340 fax From thinking to doing, from sales to profits, from tax to investments- we are YOUR adjuvancy -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:computerguy...@listserv.aol.com] On Behalf Of Kelly J. Morris Sent: 01/15/2009 11:20 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: [CGUYS] MagicJack question I bought MagicJack for my son, who is a gamer. It works fine, except that instead of just ringing when there is an incoming call, it opens a big new Window onscreen and prevents him from continuing to play until he closes it. Has anyone had any experience with MagicJack? Is there a way to disable this feature? TIA Kelly -- Kelly J. Morris kjmli...@comcast.net Togo-L * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
Me too... Marcio At 01:14 PM 1/16/2009, you wrote: At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. Fred Holmes * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
But our cell phones can already make all our calls for free, so why screw with it? Maybe for people with no cell phones. Or traveling salesmen (with no cellphones)? It just makes more sense to me to hook to the net via the router, not a USB port on one of the client machines. Preferably wirelessly, but wired if needed. But you can carry the Majic Jack dongle with you and plug it into any computer, anywhere, * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
OK, I'm confused. I have the standard Magic Jack interface device, which plugs into a USB port and accepts an RJ-11 plug from a common telephone cord. I presumed that is what is being called the dongle, as it is small in size, about 3 in. long by an inch wide by 3/4 inch thick. There is no separate dongle (password device) required in my setup. Is that what everyone else has? I would not call it a large device. Maybe early adopters got a large device and hardware version 2.0 is the dongle? Fred Holmes At 11:33 AM 1/16/2009, Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. wrote: NO MAGIC DONGLE. The dongle is available if you can't access the USB with their large device directly. Eschew Obfuscation This is a reply from: Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. Financial, Managerial, and Technical Services for the Professional, Non-Profit, and the Entrepreneurial Organization 703.548.1343 voice 703.783.1340 fax From thinking to doing, from sales to profits, from tax to investments- we are YOUR adjuvancy -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:computerguy...@listserv.aol.com] On Behalf Of Tony B Sent: 01/16/2009 10:35 AM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question I dunno, but remember - Magic Jack requires a dongle to run. Specifically, it requires *a whole gd computer*. Cynics would simply point out that, once you have the computer, you don't _need_ the Magic Jack to do VOIP. Besides, who wants to leave their computer on all the time just so their phone will work? If you've got MJ, can you tell the OP how to disable the incoming call popup? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
The dongle to which I referred is *the computer*. A computer is required to make a phone call. Don't you have a cell phone? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 1:14 PM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: OK, I'm confused. I have the standard Magic Jack interface device, which plugs into a USB port and accepts an RJ-11 plug from a common telephone cord. I presumed that is what is being called the dongle, as it is small in size, about 3 in. long by an inch wide by 3/4 inch thick. There is no separate dongle (password device) required in my setup. Is that what everyone else has? I would not call it a large device. Maybe early adopters got a large device and hardware version 2.0 is the dongle? Fred Holmes At 11:33 AM 1/16/2009, Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. wrote: NO MAGIC DONGLE. The dongle is available if you can't access the USB with their large device directly. Eschew Obfuscation This is a reply from: Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. Financial, Managerial, and Technical Services for the Professional, Non-Profit, and the Entrepreneurial Organization 703.548.1343 voice 703.783.1340 fax From thinking to doing, from sales to profits, from tax to investments- we are YOUR adjuvancy -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:computerguy...@listserv.aol.com] On Behalf Of Tony B Sent: 01/16/2009 10:35 AM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question I dunno, but remember - Magic Jack requires a dongle to run. Specifically, it requires *a whole gd computer*. Cynics would simply point out that, once you have the computer, you don't _need_ the Magic Jack to do VOIP. Besides, who wants to leave their computer on all the time just so their phone will work? If you've got MJ, can you tell the OP how to disable the incoming call popup? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
I got PhonePower.com (which had a 10% off deal at the time) and $199/year with 2nd year free (except fed state fees) ...the performance is unbelievably great ...it also has cloned line which means while you are on a call another person can pick up another phone and make or receive a call simultaneously. When you get a message, it can be gotten the usual way or you can hear it as a .wav file in your email or on their website secure. I am thrilled with it. No popup; it works just like a regular phone. The phone modem is BEHIND my router; they supply it for nothing, you pay shipping only. I was able to port my number. During the 2 week port process (caused by delay from Verizon) you can use the outbound immediately. Cost to call international numbers (we do that) is very low. Sound quality is FAR SUPERIOR to Verizon POTS. My internet is only DSL speed even though it's cable (limited basic Comcast). Check it out. If you mention my email address, we BOTH get some kind of bonus! -Original Message- From: Tony B [mailto:ton...@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, January 15, 2009 11:52 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack question I doubt you can disable the notice to any effective degree. Without of course, disabling the telephone. Simply unplug the MJ. A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. On Thu, Jan 15, 2009 at 11:19 PM, Kelly J. Morris kjmli...@comcast.net wrote: I bought MagicJack for my son, who is a gamer. It works fine, except that instead of just ringing when there is an incoming call, it opens a big new Window onscreen and prevents him from continuing to play until he closes it. Has anyone had any experience with MagicJack? Is there a way to disable this feature? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
PhonePower works completely fine with just their modem and the cable modem with the computer completely shut off. Also, they are going to add a portability feature. The phone modem you get is about the size of a pack of cigarettes and you can take it with you when you travel. -Original Message- From: Tony B [mailto:ton...@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, January 16, 2009 10:35 AM Subject: Re: MagicJack question I dunno, but remember - Magic Jack requires a dongle to run. Specifically, it requires *a whole gd computer*. Cynics would simply point out that, once you have the computer, you don't _need_ the Magic Jack to do VOIP. Besides, who wants to leave their computer on all the time just so their phone will work? If you've got MJ, can you tell the OP how to disable the incoming call popup? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
At 01:29 PM 1/16/2009, Tony B wrote: The dongle to which I referred is *the computer*. A computer is required to make a phone call. Don't you have a cell phone? Yeah, but my cell phone doesn't work very well from my desk in the basement of my house. I also don't like carrying it around. It's bulky in my pants pocket; it's bulky affixed to my belt with a clip. No matter how I carry it, it results in bruises or scratches from the keys in my pocket. So I really only carry my cell phone when I'm out of the house. Magic Jack doesn't interfere with my use of the computer. If I'm at my desk my computer is on 99.% of the time. . . . Walking to a better spot with my cell phone isn't really a good option, because most of the calls I make involve taking notes and looking up information, best done at my desk and often using the computer anyway. At less than $20 per year, the cost of Magic Jack is very low in the noise of my finances. Fred Holmes * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
How about international calls? With MagicJack I am in Brasil and I have an USA number. I can make calls to the USA (59 dollars for five years). They can call my US number from US callers... Marcio At 15:41 16/1/2009, you wrote: But our cell phones can already make all our calls for free, so why screw with it? Maybe for people with no cell phones. Or traveling salesmen (with no cellphones)? It just makes more sense to me to hook to the net via the router, not a USB port on one of the client machines. Preferably wirelessly, but wired if needed. But you can carry the Majic Jack dongle with you and plug it into any computer, anywhere, * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
I have the same as you Fred Marcio At 16:14 16/1/2009, you wrote: OK, I'm confused. I have the standard Magic Jack interface device, which plugs into a USB port and accepts an RJ-11 plug from a common telephone cord. I presumed that is what is being called the dongle, as it is small in size, about 3 in. long by an inch wide by 3/4 inch thick. There is no separate dongle (password device) required in my setup. Is that what everyone else has? I would not call it a large device. Maybe early adopters got a large device and hardware version 2.0 is the dongle? Fred Holmes At 11:33 AM 1/16/2009, Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. wrote: NO MAGIC DONGLE. The dongle is available if you can't access the USB with their large device directly. Eschew Obfuscation This is a reply from: Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. Financial, Managerial, and Technical Services for the Professional, Non-Profit, and the Entrepreneurial Organization 703.548.1343 voice 703.783.1340 fax From thinking to doing, from sales to profits, from tax to investments- we are YOUR adjuvancy -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:computerguy...@listserv.aol.com] On Behalf Of Tony B Sent: 01/16/2009 10:35 AM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question I dunno, but remember - Magic Jack requires a dongle to run. Specifically, it requires *a whole gd computer*. Cynics would simply point out that, once you have the computer, you don't _need_ the Magic Jack to do VOIP. Besides, who wants to leave their computer on all the time just so their phone will work? If you've got MJ, can you tell the OP how to disable the incoming call popup? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
If I call in my cell phone to the USA... it costs a lot. The same from there here... Marcio At 16:29 16/1/2009, you wrote: The dongle to which I referred is *the computer*. A computer is required to make a phone call. Don't you have a cell phone? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 1:14 PM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: OK, I'm confused. I have the standard Magic Jack interface device, which plugs into a USB port and accepts an RJ-11 plug from a common telephone cord. I presumed that is what is being called the dongle, as it is small in size, about 3 in. long by an inch wide by 3/4 inch thick. There is no separate dongle (password device) required in my setup. Is that what everyone else has? I would not call it a large device. Maybe early adopters got a large device and hardware version 2.0 is the dongle? Fred Holmes At 11:33 AM 1/16/2009, Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. wrote: NO MAGIC DONGLE. The dongle is available if you can't access the USB with their large device directly. Eschew Obfuscation This is a reply from: Roy A. Ackerman, Ph.D., E.A. Financial, Managerial, and Technical Services for the Professional, Non-Profit, and the Entrepreneurial Organization 703.548.1343 voice 703.783.1340 fax From thinking to doing, from sales to profits, from tax to investments- we are YOUR adjuvancy -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:computerguy...@listserv.aol.com] On Behalf Of Tony B Sent: 01/16/2009 10:35 AM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question I dunno, but remember - Magic Jack requires a dongle to run. Specifically, it requires *a whole gd computer*. Cynics would simply point out that, once you have the computer, you don't _need_ the Magic Jack to do VOIP. Besides, who wants to leave their computer on all the time just so their phone will work? If you've got MJ, can you tell the OP how to disable the incoming call popup? On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM, Fred Holmes f...@his.com wrote: At 11:52 PM 1/15/2009, Tony B wrote: A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. What is the long-term monthly/annual charge for Vonage service? For Magic Jack, it's very cheap, less than $15 per year IIRC. This may be an introductory price, but they have solicited payment for 5 years worth, which I have taken. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
For international callers this is indeed a boon. But I think it is much like Skype. Stewart At 02:39 PM 1/16/2009, you wrote: If I call in my cell phone to the USA... it costs a lot. The same from there here... Marcio Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:popoz...@earthlink.net Prince of Peace www.princeofpeaceozark.org Ozark, AL SL 82 * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
No, they are offering five years for 59.00. I am in Brazil. They gave me a number that I chose in Los Angeles. My American friends can call me on that number and I receive the call here. I can call anyone in the USA. No other fees. If I call Europe I believe there is a fee. If they call four rings it goes to the voicemail. I can access the voicemail. I receive an e-mail telling me about the call. If I want I also can have a TAM. Marcio At 18:43 16/1/2009, you wrote: For international callers this is indeed a boon. But I think it is much like Skype. Stewart At 02:39 PM 1/16/2009, you wrote: If I call in my cell phone to the USA... it costs a lot. The same from there here... Marcio Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:popoz...@earthlink.net Prince of Peace www.princeofpeaceozark.org Ozark, AL SL 82 * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
http://www.magicjack.com/faq/ * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
That is what I mean about international. You are living in Brazil but can establish a US phone number which means US calls are low cost to you. If I were to call in Brazil to a Brazillian # using my standard phone line it would cost me much more. Stewart At 04:19 PM 1/16/2009, you wrote: No, they are offering five years for 59.00. I am in Brazil. They gave me a number that I chose in Los Angeles. My American friends can call me on that number and I receive the call here. I can call anyone in the USA. No other fees. If I call Europe I believe there is a fee. If they call four rings it goes to the voicemail. I can access the voicemail. I receive an e-mail telling me about the call. If I want I also can have a TAM. Marcio Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:popoz...@earthlink.net Prince of Peace www.princeofpeaceozark.org Ozark, AL SL 82 * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
Cost to call international numbers (we do that) is very low. I'm paying 2 cents/minute for calls to Europe using POTS. Are you lower than that? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
Yes, low cost, that is altogether 59 dollars for five years for me to call anyone in the USA. And to have anyone in the USA ro call my number in Los Angeles (they may pay long distance if they are not in Los Angeles, according to their phone plan)... Marcio At 20:29 16/1/2009, you wrote: That is what I mean about international. You are living in Brazil but can establish a US phone number which means US calls are low cost to you. If I were to call in Brazil to a Brazillian # using my standard phone line it would cost me much more. Stewart At 04:19 PM 1/16/2009, you wrote: No, they are offering five years for 59.00. I am in Brazil. They gave me a number that I chose in Los Angeles. My American friends can call me on that number and I receive the call here. I can call anyone in the USA. No other fees. If I call Europe I believe there is a fee. If they call four rings it goes to the voicemail. I can access the voicemail. I receive an e-mail telling me about the call. If I want I also can have a TAM. Marcio Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:popoz...@earthlink.net Prince of Peace www.princeofpeaceozark.org Ozark, AL SL 82 * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
1.7c to all my family in Belgium on PhonePower ...they also had a sale in December for the whole month calls to a coupla dozen countries free ...beat that! (I didn't know Apple owned POTS)...hehee! -Original Message- From: Tom Piwowar [mailto:t...@tjpa.com] Sent: Friday, January 16, 2009 6:27 PM Subject: Re: MagicJack question Cost to call international numbers (we do that) is very low. I'm paying 2 cents/minute for calls to Europe using POTS. Are you lower than that? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
Cost to call international numbers (we do that) is very low. I'm paying 2 cents/minute for calls to Europe using POTS. Are you lower than that? What's your service? Do you use a phone card or dial-around number? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] MagicJack question
I bought MagicJack for my son, who is a gamer. It works fine, except that instead of just ringing when there is an incoming call, it opens a big new Window onscreen and prevents him from continuing to play until he closes it. Has anyone had any experience with MagicJack? Is there a way to disable this feature? TIA Kelly -- Kelly J. Morris kjmli...@comcast.net Togo-L * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MagicJack question
I doubt you can disable the notice to any effective degree. Without of course, disabling the telephone. Simply unplug the MJ. A much better solution for VOIP would be something like Vonage, which has a magic jack that connects straight to your router, and a regular telephone jack on the other end. So when you get a call, the telephone rings, instead of popping up a window on your computer. On Thu, Jan 15, 2009 at 11:19 PM, Kelly J. Morris kjmli...@comcast.net wrote: I bought MagicJack for my son, who is a gamer. It works fine, except that instead of just ringing when there is an incoming call, it opens a big new Window onscreen and prevents him from continuing to play until he closes it. Has anyone had any experience with MagicJack? Is there a way to disable this feature? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
