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Listening to accessories
Focusing on accessories, this month The BAPCO Journal takes a closer look at a selection of earpieces and handsfree microphones that are currently available...
Motorola
In looking at accessories, Graeme Loughrey, Motorola Accessories team explains that whilst users require a vast range of accessory solutions from the simple/cost-effective to mission critical; this is ManMachine Interface (MMI) dependent, each and every user should carefully assess the operations they have to perform and decide how best to perform them.
There is no single accessory that is right for everything; Motorola combine with multiple accessory houses to get the best solutions. For instance, when starting a new project it's essential to identify which requirements are essential to fulfil a specific function
Motorola approaches its accessories in the same way it approaches its terminals; they must be robust enough to withstand everyday use as well as exceptional demands and must comply with regulatory requirements such as noise and vibration limits, RF exposure and safety tests
Planning upfront is therefore essential; requesting accessory solutions after the delivery of your new terminals is too late
Earpiece with microphone - The move to a simple, lightweight audio accessory such as the earpiece and in-line microphone is a testament to the clarity of audio the TETRA network delivers and also reflects the greater need for interaction with the TETRA terminal display and data applications such as short message services (SMS). It also reduces the requirement for devices such as the public order microphone, which is normally worn upside down for officer convenience.
Shoulder-worn MTH800, which is a significant change for officers from the belt-worn terminal of previous generations - reflecting the trend towards lightweight, convenient and user-friendly accessories.
Plantronics
The new MX300 from Plantronics is a smart new headset that offers clearer calls in windy environments due to its patent-pending WindSmart™ technology. The headset builds on Plantronics' FlexGrip® design, giving users a comfortable, stable, yet discreet fit. Its innovative retractable cable, for tangle-free use, makes this the optimum, convenient headset for mobile users wanting freedom and flexibility.
Following the success of the stylish CS60 wireless DECT headset, Plantronics has launched the CS60 USB for specific use with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) softphone applications.
Giving unprecedented mobility and wireless freedom, the Plantronics CS60-USB, the industry’s only wireless USB headset system, allows you to know when the phone is ringing, and enables you to answer and end calls away from your PC. The CS60-USB allows users to roam up to 100 meters from their PC softphones without missing calls; and with up to nine hours talk time the CS60 USB has the power capacity to ensure you will not be let down when it counts.
"VoIP provides a simple, portable and cost-effective telephony service, but until now, lacked mobility. The CS60-USB delivers wireless connectivity allowing users to take and end calls away from their desks and computers," said Paul Clark, marketing director for Plantronics EMEA. "Plantronics worked with its OEM softphone partners to develop PerSonoCall™, the CS60-USB’s software that provides the answer/end and ring detect capability for most major softphones."
The CS60 USB features a discrete base unit, which can be dismantled for easy stowage whilst traveling, making this the perfect business tool for VoIP calls on the move. With a choice of three wearing styles, a headband, Plantronics unique behind-the-head neckband or a simple earloop, and weighing only 28grams, the CS60 USB can be worn comfortably throughout the working day.
The noise-canceling microphone ensures clear, crisp conversation delivery by minimizing background noise, making the CS60-USB ideal for busy offices or home environments.
Datamonitor is positive about the long-term prospects for voice over IP telephony, "Introducing a converged IP network reduces or eliminates the need for a separate circuit-switched voice network and overlaying wireless LAN can extend the phone coverage throughout the enterprise, as well as enable numerous data applications such as email and instant messaging. In particular, the technology can generate considerable efficiencies for professionals who can stay in contact with their corporate data and voice infrastructure"
The CS60-USB is backed by a two-year warranty and has an MSRP of £199 (EX VAT).
Lazerbuilt
Lazerbuilt Ltd, a market leading manufacturer of telephones and mobile accessories, has launched a new concept for the professional telecomms user – the ‘LAZER POCKET HEADLINE’.
Adding to Lazerbuilt’s range of business phones, the new Lazer Headline brings cordless headsets to applications that previously used corded products.
Aimed at the professional user, from large corporations to the small business or even home office, the Lazer Pocket Headline is a completely integrated DECT phone and DECT headset that allows complete freedom to move around the office while continuing that important telephone conversation.
The Lazer Headline is a lightweight cordless DECT headset with a wide range of fantastic features that allows you complete mobility.
The Lazer Pocket is the system’s DECT base phone that integrates into the business’ telephone system through a selection of connection options. The Lazer Pocket provides the Lazer Headline DECT headset the access to the phone system, because calls can be transferred back to the base and then to other extensions.
This fantastic new DECT headset solution is intended to sell at £150 (inc. VAT), making it a superbly affordable to any business, both large and small.
David Madden, Managing Director of Lazerbuilt, said, "We are bringing professional DECT cordless headsets to applications that previously only used corded headsets. Prices are now at levels that we can genuinely say ‘cordless headsets at corded prices’."
Lazer XS2 - Clip-on Bluetooth headset with changeable fascias and ear covers. Ideal for those with long hair or that wear glasses.
Lazer XS3 - Unique in-car ‘Park & Charge’ solution
Clement Clarke Communications
DTI figures show that in 2004, 5,980 call centres employed over 538,000 people. These employees face a major health and safety problem: acoustic shock.
It has been described by trade unions as "the industrial injury of the 21st century" and they are preparing several hundred legal cases. Fortunately, a solution exists. It requires good management practice by running call centres to minimise the risk and installing Clement Clarke Communications technology. The Audio Shock Attenuator (ASA) from Clement Clarke Communications meets new legal requirements to limit average noise exposure through the headset, in-line with the forthcoming EU directive 2003/10/EC to become law from 15th Feb 2006.
The critical factor in designing the TC-1000 was to ensure the safety of the operator and it has a number of key features including Audio Shock Attenuator (ASA) and Universal Tone Attenuator (UTA). In addition to the safety features, TC-1000 has an Automatic Gain Control function that improves the quality of the call by increasing or decreasing the level of incoming speech to a user-set comfortable level.
Elite Mobile
Elite Mobile offer the advanced, super-stylish, top-value foneactive Bluetooth Headset. A true crowd-puller that combines gorgeous good looks with superior technology and great value-for-money. With a brilliant selection of bezels: silver, black or pink. A remarkable 5 hours talktime, 120 hours standby from a rechargeable Li-polymer battery. Wearable on either ear, with a featherlight 10g weight. Gives superior sound quality and is compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Car Kit Upgrade - No need to change the whole car kit when changing handsets (Car Kit Upgrade uses existing Nokia hardware) – this brilliant but simple innovation provides automatic compatibility with most phones.
