Michigan VoIP Calling Types
There are basically five ways to make calls using VoIP technology.
ATA - This is the most popular way to utilize VoIP, it uses a device
called an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter). The ATA gets connected to your router or
Cable/DSL Modem and your phone line connects to the ATA. When you pick up your phone the
ATA establishes a connection to the VoIP Provider and converts your analog signals from
your phone into digital packets to be sent through the internet. Most Michigan VoIP
Providers will supply the ATA when you subscribe to there service. The ATA is shipped to
your home and usually is pre-configured for connection, all you need to do is connect the
ATA to the Cable/DSL modem. Connect your phone to the ATA and you're ready to go. Once you
have the VoIP system set-up the user will never know the difference.
IP Phones - This option eliminates the need for an ATA because all of
the hardware and software needed to convert and connect to the Michigan VoIP Provider is
included in the phone itself. The IP Phone looks just like normal phones, the only
difference would be the type of connection used. Standard phones use a connection called
RJ-11, Ip Phones use a RJ-45 connection just like the cable coming into your computer from
the modem. All you have to do is connect your phone directly to a router or cable/dsl
modem and away you go. This option is utilized heavily in the business sector that already
has multiple network drops in place.
Wi-Fi IP Phones - Same concept as the IP Phone however the connection
to the internet is made utilizing a personal wireless router or by accessing a Wi-Fi Hot
Spot. There are several Wi-Fi Hotspots in the Michigan VoIP area.
Computer to Computer - This is the cheapest and easiest way to use
VoIP. This option uses your existing computer and internet connection along with software
provided freely online to place calls using the microphone and speakers that came with
your machine. This option has a major drawback, you must remain at your PC to make calls
and receiving calls will not work unless you have your PC running and not in sleep mode.
However, you usually are not required to pay a monthly service fee like the previous three
options. This option also requires the person you are calling have the same software
installed.
Computer to Phone - This option uses your existing computer and
internet connection along with software provided online to place calls using the
microphone and speakers that came with your machine. This option has a major drawback, you
must remain at your PC to make calls and receiving calls will not work unless you have
your PC running and not in sleep mode. Most providers have a monthly subscription cost in
order to call regular phones from your PC. However, using a service called AdCalls is
free. |
911
Calling?
In May 2005, the FCC adopted rules that respond to the threat that such
misunderstandings pose to public safety. The FCC adopted rules requiring providers of
interconnected VoIP services to supply 911 emergency calling capabilities to their
customers as a mandatory feature of the service by November 28, 2005.
"Interconnected" VoIP services are VoIP services that allow a user generally to
receive calls from and make calls to the traditional telephone network. Under the FCC
rules, interconnected VoIP providers must:
- Deliver all 911 calls to the local emergency call center;
- Deliver the customer’s call back number and location information where the
emergency call center is capable of receiving it; and
- Inform their customers of the capabilities and limitations of their VoIP 911
service.
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Who Are We?
This website was designed for people looking for high quality, honest, and local
information regarding Michigan VoIP choices. You can find comparisons, reviews and
suggestions regarding VoIP providers. Did you know that VoIP can save you at least $360 a
year. Click Here to
see how much you can save.
I started using Vonage Voip about
2 years ago because I was tired of paying anywhere from $75-$120 a month with Ameritech
and decided to give it a try. Since that time I have referred all of my friends and
relatives to VoIP. I strongly believe that VoIP is the only way to go for your Michigan
telecommunication needs.
When I first switched over to Vonage I was more
than a bit skeptical. The only experience I had with Internet Phones or Broadband Phones
was talking through my PC. I was worried that the sound quality would not meet my
requirements. I was wrong. The quality has been fantastic and the price can't be beat. I
went from having a $75-$120 phone bill to a $27-$30 bill with Vonage. Click to see actual Bill.
This website is packed full of information for all types of Michigan VoIP users ranging
from the new residential VoIP user to the Michigan business owner. We have every thing you
could need including Reviews, Suggestions, User Forum, and How to Manuals.
If there is information regarding Michigan VoIP that is not addressed on this website
please contact Jason via email at: Click For Mail
Thanks for visiting us.
 5 Most Frequently Asked Questions
- Q. What does VoIP stand
for? A.
Voice Over Internet Protocol
- Q. Does my computer need to
stay on?
A. No, The Cable or DSL modem is the
only piece of hardware that needs to remain on.
- Q. How is the sound
quality? A.
Sound quality can vary depending on your internet connection speed, however your current
DSL/Cable connection should be sufficient.
- Q. What's the catch?
The cost must be an introductory price.
A.There
is no catch, the average monthly cost for service is $17-$30 a month including taxes.
- Q. Which provider should I use? A.That question needs to be answered by you, all I
can do is try and provide information about all Michigan VoIP providers.
Please visit the VoIP Faq's
page for more information. |
