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: 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: 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: 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: 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/ ** *
