Conferencing Calling Equipment

  

  

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The participants in a conference call are gathered around the conference table. The VP’s and managers have left their offices; the tech person has the conference phone ready to go as the clock hits 9am. The number to the distant group is called and then nothing. The VP’s are looking at their watches, the managers are tapping their fingers on the table top and the tech person is sweating. Good conference call equipment is important.

Conference phone features
The primary piece of equipment for a conference call is a conference phone. A good conference phone should have good fidelity, allow participants to speak at a normal level and provide easy controls. Phones using wideband audio technology provide a higher level of voice quality and realism. Noise reduction features can eliminate distracting background noises such as heating or cooling systems. Higher quality microphones can pick up voices from a distance, allowing some participants to be further from the conference phone.

Good conference phones also allow simultaneous two-way conversation without cutting off one party. A good, reliable mute button is very important. A good internal phone book will provide a quick way to connect with the other party without scrambling to find the right number and volume control is a must have. Redial and a choice of several ringtones are nice features also. Extension microphones and a subwoofer are add-on options with some equipment.

Today’s conference call equipment is less intrusive than it was even five years ago. Some conference phones offer a wireless feature and only require a cord for power. Some even offer a complete cordless option, running on batteries. This last alternative may be problematic though, as frequency problems and battery power can play havoc with an important call. Imagine the sales department in the middle of closing a major sale and the connection drops.

More considerations
Some conferencing phones can interconnect to allow for coverage in larger rooms. Several units can be placed strategically to pick up every voice clearly. The wide frequency range of Wideband phones can transmit a clear, accurate voice transmission that is the equivalent of comparing high definition television to standard television. This feature works even with a standard phone line.

The quality of the cords, microphones and software all effect the quality of a conference call. Another consideration is voice-activated microphones so that the person speaking closest to a remote or central microphone can be heard. Some units allow for recording of both sides of a conference call at the touch of a button as an added convenience.

Conference bridge
Another tool for holding a teleconference is a conference bridge. This hardware solution connects participants in a secure, controlled environment. The system can allow for management of the conference call including an automated headcount, custom greetings, voice prompts and administrator control. On the fly conference calls are possible with these systems.

With a variety of conferencing options on the market today, additional equipment may be required. Save money on equipment and save time by using C3 Conferencing for your next conference.  With our easy to features, including, call recording - your next conference call will be a snap.