I'd like to use my broadband connections in Boston and in various overseas places I travel to set up a VoIP link; please help me to understand my options.
Architecture: I have PBXs at all termini, and ethernet pluggability via DSL transport. Requirement I could accept connectivity from PBX to PBX using VoIP, but access via PSTN is acceptable. System should be completely independent of computers, using only ethernet pluggability. (Conceivable e.g. with Quicknet h/w if necessary, to set up on spare machine running all the time; I'd rather not.) If system uses PSTN to access out, it must also be capable of inward access from PSTN. What I found VONAGE: Offers Cisco ATA 186 as part of a US$26/mo package which gives both inward and outward PSTN access. Basically you plug a small box into ethernet (anywhere in the world), connect a phone, pick up the phone, and get a US dialtone (numbers are assigned in numerous cities according to subscriber's request). Problems: (1) Pay $26 month (it is tied to Vonage) tho you do get a phone number assigned (2) ATA 186 configurable only as FXS (appears as Central Office) so I cannot (directly, tho there is a workaround) interface with an analog trunk port of a PBX. NET2PHONE: I really need help here since it is impossible to get a knowledgeable human on the phone (probably not a good sign). Firm appears to offer a variety of hardware which would allow either direct PBX-PBX linkage (but if so how would NET2PHONE make any money?) or a package similar to Vonage. But from what I have been able to deduce, you can dial out on their boxes but not dial in from the PSTN. Need clarification. I'd appreciate any insights into business practices of this firm (initial signs not good) as well as descriptions of services users have experienced and the quality of the connections. What hardware options do they offer that meet my requirements? I have never been able to get an answer from this firm despite numerous calls (apparently routed to overseas call centers, staffed by those knowing even less than food-service-industry dropouts staffing most US call centers). QUICKNET This firm used to have some hardware that might work. Anyone know? Any used stuff for sale? All help gratefully received. Jeffrey Race
