Inexpensive Conference rooms and huddle spaces

By Danny Hayasaka

October 28, 2016

Conference rooms and huddle spaces need inexpensive, easy to use, platform agnostic devices. It’s been really fascinating to watch the evolution of the meeting space. I remember conference rooms, the analog speakerphone and using a conference call service to connect multiple participants. Oh, and paying by the minute.

Video was added to enhance the experience. It required expensive codecs, hardware, bridges, managed services and a degree from MIT to operate. So the reality was video conferencing wasn’t used and the codecs sat there and collected dust.

Nowadays there are so many options for audio and video meetings via Microsoft Lync/Skype for Business, Cisco Jabber, Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, WebEx, GoToMeeting, Vidyo, BlueJeans, Adobe Connect, Fuze, ReadyTalk, and on and on. Additionally, meeting spaces can now be anywhere from the traditional conference rooms to huddle spaces.


With so many options, the need for platform agnostic devices has increased. Additionally, customers are in search of “easy”. How do they video enable a room easily, inexpensively and doesn’t require a specialized degree or certification to operate?

Fortunately, there are plenty of options from multiple vendors. That’s the other fantastic thing that has occurred…customers are no longer tied to “one” brand for a complete solution. They can mix and match depending on need and budget.

You can use devices from Logitech, Jabra, Plantronics, EPOS | Sennheiser, Konftel, Revolabs and more!!!

For personal use, you can use a USB/Bluetooth headset or USB/Bluetooth personal speakerphone and Webcam.

For small groups of 2-5 people, you can use a USB speakerphone and Webcam.

For groups of 6-10, you can go with ConferenceCams, USB speakerphones and Webcam or PTZ webcams.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For even larger groups you have options for ConferenceCams with extended mics, or more robust speakerphones with USB connections and PTZ Webcams.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All these solutions cost thousands of dollars less than traditional video conferencing solutions and they are extremely easy to use. Most are “plug and play”. Simply plug the USB cable into your PC or laptop and off you go.

Logitech is making it even easier with their ConferenceCam Kit which includes Intel NUC, Keyboard, Mouse and Iluminari Quicklaunch SE (a fully configurable and simplified user interface that brings appliance-like ease-of-use to the meeting room, minimizing the need for user training or IT support.)

 

What does this mean do inexpensive, platform agnostic, easy to use devices mean for business?

Increased user adoption, more collaboration and decreased IT Help Desk trouble tickets.

Below are listed some examples of products that can be used to video enable a space and are inexpensive Conference Huddle Spaces. There are more from other manufacturers/brands. Below are some of the more popular, tested/certified webcams and speakerphones:

Webcams, PTZ Webcams and ConferenceCams:

USB and USB/Bluetooth/NFC Speakerphones:

 

 

Jabra Noise Guide

Jabra Noise Guide

Open offices are great for improved team work and collaboration however with that comes an increase in noise! Yes, sometimes your colleagues become your biggest distractions. Jabra introduces the Jabra Noise Guide with SoundEar®3 software as a way to reduce distracting noise in your office. It’s a portable device that monitors noise levels and provides visual feedback so coworkers are more aware immediately that they may be distracting others.

There are three light color schemes:

  • Green = acceptable noise levels
  • Yellow = warning noise levels are getting high
  • Red = unacceptable noise levels
  • (Of course it can work in reverse if you want higher noise levels ie. Sales Floor, Green could indicate not enough noise going on)

The SoundEar software for the Jabra Noise Guide defaults to preset “Noisy Office” noise levels. You can also select from “Normal Office” to “Quiet Office” depending on acceptable level of noise in your space. Additionally you can customize and set it to what is best for your office.

The Jabra Noise Guide includes: Noise Guide, USB Key with software, Power Adapter with EU, US & UK plugs, USB Adapter Cable (A-plug to micro-B).

Your office environment will determine whether you obtain a Table Stand or Cubicle Mount.

How does the Jabra Noise Guide work?

Noise Guide provides you with 2 types of measurements, simultaneously. The ear symbol indicates the state of the current noise level while the LED panel at the bottom of the device indicates the average noise level over the past 15 minutes.

Software Setup

You will find the software on the included USB Key. When you have installed the software, make sure to check for software updates to ensure that you are always updated with the latest version.

With the Jabra Noise Guide, you have three standard settings to choose from:

  1. Noisy Office (Default)
    1. The device is lit green when the noise level is below 60 dB.
    2. The device is lit yellow when the noise level ranges from 60 dB to 70 dB.
    3. The device is lit red when the noise level exceeds 70 dB.Normal Office
  2. Normal Office
    1. The device is lit green when the noise level is below 55 dB.
    2. The device is lit yellow when the noise level ranges from 55 dB to 65 dB.
    3. The device is lit red when the noise level exceeds 65 dB.
  3. Quiet Office
    1. The device is lit green when the noise level is below 50 dB.
    2. The device is lit yellow when the noise level ranges from 50 dB to 60 dB.
    3. The device is lit red when the noise level exceeds 60 dB.
  4. Customized Settings
    1. Allows you to customize settings

Jabra Noise Guide

 

There are many options from this GUI in addition to Quick Setup for the Jabra Noise Guide:

  • Setup
    • Device Info
    • Light Settings
    • User Manual
    • About Jabra Noise Guide
  • Measurement Data
    • Live Measurment
    • Measurement Library
    • Import Data From USB

Jabra Noise Guide

You can now review for peak noisiest hours and depending on where you position units, you can pinpoint which areas of your office are noisiest and when.

I think this is a really cool tool for any business looking to monitor noise levels in their office space.

To learn more about the Jabra Noise Guide, go to http://www.jabra.com/business/office-headsets/jabra-noise-guide

Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub for Windows/Mac

Many communications and collaboration platforms in the enterprise space requires the use of USB headsets and devices. With that comes some challenges in the enterprise space for end-users and IT departments. Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub offer a great solution.

From Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub data sheet:

Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub, both part of our Plantronics Spokes software offering, work together to give enterprises total control and flexibility over their Plantronics audio headsets and devices.

Plantronics Manager Pro is a web-based service that gives IT Managers easy-to-use tools to configure settings and update audio device software and firmware for end-users across the enterprise. Plantronics Manager Pro leverages a cloud-based architecture and offers reporting tools that provide new insights into your communications environment.

Plantronics Hub for Windows/Mac is a client application that works with Plantronics Manager Pro and allows end users to control the settings on their Plantronics audio device within the parameters established by IT.

Problems:

  • IT needs to modify audio device settings for hundreds of users to comply with company policy
  • IT wants to evaluate the effectiveness of their UC deployment, seeing which users are not using their headset
  • IT needs to push a firmware update to hundreds of users
  • IT wants to keep track of their audio device inventory
  • IT needs to troubleshoot user issues from a remote location

Solution: Plantronics Manager Pro with Plantronics Hub for Windows/Mac

Plantronics Manager Pro

Plantronics Manager Pro and Hub

SIMPLIFY ADMINISTRATION OF PLANTRONICS DEVICES

  • View a summary of all audio devices and Plantronics Hub software at a glance
  • Easily schedule and deploy device firmware upgrades
  • Adjust and implement setting configurations to ensure a seamless end user experience while locking in regulatory compliance settings
  • Configure devices quickly and consistently, at a time that works best for managers and end users
  • Conveniently troubleshoot and diagnose user issues from a remote location

GAIN DETAILED INSIGHT

  • Generate inventory and usage reports for all audio devices in your organization
  • View what softphone version is being used with Plantronics products across your organization
  • Identify compatibility conflicts between softphone and Plantronics Hub versions
  • Improve user performance and experience by ensuring compatibility between audio device firmware and softphone application

Plantronics Hub

Plantronics Manager Pro and Hub

EMPOWER USER PRODUCTIVITY

  • Enable device-level call control with call answer/end, mute, and volume adjust with supported softphone and UC clients
  • Access intuitive user features such as visible mute status, battery status, and mute control
  • Avoid disrupting normal workflow with silent installation option

For more information or to receive a quote for Plantronics Manager Pro, please contact your Authorized Plantronics Reseller.

 

USB and 3.5mm Connectivity Headsets

By Danny Hayasaka

July 22, 2016

More and more businesses/workers are using soft phones and mobile devices to communicate and collaborate. While there are multiple wireless solutions available, many customers want simple corded solutions that are portable and easy to use. The top headset manufacturers have answered the call and developed headsets that connect to your laptop/PC via USB and also allow you to connect to mobile device via 3.5mm connection.

Now folks can use the same headset for PC/Laptop as well as their mobile device. Additionally, all include carry case for portability.

Plantronics USB + 3.5mm Options:

  • Blackwire C315 Monaural (204440-02) and C315-M Monaural – Microsoft (204440-01)
  • Blackwire C325 Stereo (204446-02) and C325-M Stereo – Microsoft (204446-01)

 

Jabra USB + 3.5mm Options:

  • Jabra Evolve 80 Stereo MS (7899-823-109) and Jabra Evolve 80 Stereo UC (7899-829-209)
  • Jabra Evolve 40 MS Mono (6393-823-109) and Jabra Evolve 40 UC Mono (6393-829-209)
  • Jabra EVOLVE 40 MS Stereo (6399-823-109) and Jabra EVOLVE 40 UC Stereo (6399-829-209)

 

Sennheiser USB + 3.5mm Options:

  • Sennheiser SC 45 USB MS (507083)
    • Fkas;dfk
  • Sennheiser SC 75 USB MS (507086)
    • Uadfada;

New Earhook for Sennheiser wireless headsets

One major complaint customers had who have used Sennheiser (now EPOS | Sennheiser) wireless headsets is the over-the-ear wearing style just wasn’t good. Sennheiser has introduced a new ear hook accessory HSA 20 that is designed to offer an improved, flexible and perfect fit to the already existing SD Office and D10 wireless headsets. Today we’re looking at the Earhook for Sennheiser wireless headsets below.

A click-on adapter fitting the SD Office and D10 headsets is used for mounting the new improved ear hook featuring a soft leatherette sleeve.

Improved noise isolation and a secure fit are offered with in-ear earbuds in three different sizes (S, M, L) that are mounted on the adapter for the perfect individual fit and optimal wearing comfort.

I was fortunate enough to actually get some of these hooks to test for myself. Of course, I couldn’t write or talk about my experience until now.

Earhook Sennheiser wireless headsets

Initial thoughts… why didn’t they do this sooner? I’m not huge over the ear fan but I tell you what… this was a very comfortable fit. The SD Office and D10 headsets are super light as it is, the stability this new ear hook accessory HSA 20 offered was very nice.

It’s funny how when people test wearing style stability people shake their heads around like they’re at a metal concert but really? Who does that in an office environment? Don’t answer that. I did bend over to pick something up off the floor and other normal daily movements. The headset stayed in place.

I was able to wear all day comfortably. Really like the soft leatherette sleeve. You don’t think it makes that big a difference, but it does.

Earhook Sennheiser wireless headsets

Earhook Sennheiser wireless headsets

Earhook Sennheiser wireless headsets

 

And yes you can easily switch out the hook for right or left ear wear.

If you have a Sennheiser SD Office or D10 wireless headset but weren’t too keen on the over the ear wearing style… you may want to consider the new Sennheiser earhook accessory HSA 20.

Much more comfortable ear hook for Sennheiser SD Office, DW Office and D10!

No one can complain about Sennheiser’s audio quality. However, many customers did complain about the over the ear wearing style for their convertible wireless headset models. Sennheiser has remedied this by developing and producing a new more comfortable ear hook for the SD Office, DW Office, and D10 variants.

It’s the Ear Hook, Adapter and earbuds set. Product Code: 506524

What’s in the package? Ear Hook, Adapter and 3 sets of earbuds: Small, Medium and Large

Attaching the adapter to Sennehiser Office series headset “a snap”. You can easily switch from right ear to left ear wearing style simply by changing the Ear Hook itself. The earbuds are easy to change out as well. I really dig the thin super soft leatherette sleeve wrapped around ear hook. Makes for more comfortable wearing.

Maybe you’ve been on the fence about trying a Sennheiser SD Office or D10 because of the over-the-ear wearing style. Here’s an opportunity for you to revisit. And I’m not even an over the ear fan. I personally prefer in the ear, behind the neck or headband. This Ear hook for the Sennheiser SD was so lightweight I barely noticed I had it on.

Ear hook Sennheiser SD

Ear hook Sennheiser SD

 

Ear hook Sennheiser SD

Ear hook Sennheiser SD

Ear hook Sennheiser SD

Jabra Pro 900 Series

Jabra PRO 900 Series Wireless Headsets

Wireless headsets are much more prevalent in the workspace. I remember many, many years ago the first wireless headsets by ACS then GN Netcom. And of course, Plantronics (now Poly) joined in and took the market by storm. Now all major headset manufacturers offer wireless solutions. I remember how hard it was to get businesses other than call centers to even consider trying corded headsets. Jabra offers the PRO 900 Series Wireless Headsets, which is what we’re looking at today.

When wireless headsets finally became affordable we couldn’t keep enough on our shelves. There is no question wireless headsets increase productivity. What’s been happening over the past decade is a shift in how businesses/people communicate and collaborate. Most businesses don’t have just one method. They have desk phones, softphones, web-based collaboration platforms and of course mobile devices.

Wireless headset manufacturers began developing multi-connectivity wireless headset options to fit the varying connectivity requirements. While extremely beneficial for multiple businesses…there is still a need for a more simple solution.

What I like about the Jabra Pro 900 series is the simplicity. They are easy to set up and use. They have great talk time, very good audio quality and well… they just work.

I think customers/vendors sometimes forget this series exists. I also think there is some confusion with the multiple Jabra PRO 900 Series variants. I’ll try and simplify.

The Jabra PRO 900 Series has four main connectivity options:

  1. Desk Phone
    1. Jabra PRO 920 Mono
    2. Jabra PRO 920 Duo
    3. Jabra PRO 925 Single Connectivity
  2. Softphone
    1. Jabra PRO 930 UC Mono
    2. Jabra PRO 930 UC Duo
    3. Jabra PRO 930 Mono for Microsoft Lync/SfB
    4. Jabra PRO 930 Duo for Microsoft Lync/SfB
    5. Jabra PRO 935 Single Connectivity
    6. Jabra PRO 935 Single Connectivity for Microsoft Lync/SfB
  3. Desk Phone and Mobile
    1. Jabra PRO 925 Dual Connectivity
  4. Softphone and Mobile
    1. Jabra PRO 935 Dual Connectivity
    2. Jabra PRO 935 Dual Connectivity optimized for Microsoft Lync/SfB

Why so many variants? Jabra recognizes the increase in wireless headset use. To help address wireless density issues, they offer DECT and Bluetooth options. If the model ends in “0” it’s DECT. If the model ends in “5” it’s Bluetooth. The Jabra PRO 920 Mono is DECT. The PRO 935 Single Connectivity would be Bluetooth.

Now that you know which models are which…here’s what makes the Jabra PRO 900 Series winners:

  • TALK TIME!!!
    • Up to 8hrs – PRO 920 and PRO 930 variants
    • Up to 12hrs – PRO 925 and PRO 935 variants
  • Conference up to 4 Headsets on one base
    • Great for Training purposes and multi-shift scenarios
  • Supports EHS Cables (sold separately)
    • Cisco, Avaya, Polycom, Toshiba to name a few
  • Firmware Upgradeable
  • 1 Year Warranty
  • Mono Variants Convertible
    • Headband and Over the ear (This is probably my only con. Ear hook, not the most comfortable if worn for long periods of time – at least for me)
  • Dual Connectivity Variants
    • Desk Phone and Mobile
    • Softphone and Mobile – It just works. Once mobile is paired it connects as soon as you are in proximity automatically
  • Really Good Audio Quality
    • I’ve had no complaints in reference to receive volume
    • Audio is clearly heard
    • Transmit quality also good – no negative feedback
  • And of course… THE LOW PRICE!

If you are in search of a simple, good quality wireless headset that just works at a low price….then you need to check out the Jabra PRO 900 Series…

 

 

Blackwire C215/ C225

Blackwire C215/ C225 Review

The reality is just about every employee uses a mobile device (smartphone or tablet). While there are scores of Bluetooth headsets, sometimes customers are in search of a corded, lower cost option that offers durability and great audio quality. The Plantronics Blackwire C215/ C225 offers just that with these two variants:

What’s in the Box: First off, there is no box. Headsets come packaged in plastic bag. You get the single or dual ear headset and a Quick Start Guide.

Blackwire C215/ C225Blackwire C215/ C225

At first glance: They look just like the Plantronics Blackwire 310 and 320. Of course upon closer inspection you’ll find they are not USB. They terminate in a 3.5mm plug.

Set Up & Use: Really not much to it. Plug into 3.5mm jack of mobile phone or tablet and you are connected. Please note if connected to PC via Soundcard its listen only. No transmit. It’s nice for listening to webinars or streaming media. The headset is lightweight and speakers feel comfortable. The mic is flexible so you can bend so it’s closer to your mouth for optimal noise canceling. The headband is adjustable to fit most folks.

Blackwire C215/ C225

What I really dig is the inline control. It has an answer/hang up button, mute switch (you can visibly see “red” when muted) and even volume control.

Blackwire C215/ C225

Other nice feature for easy storage and portability is the speakers fold flat.

Blackwire C215/ C225

The audio quality is really good especially with dual ear model if listening to music. Reminder about the inline volume control. I had inline volume on low initially and wasn’t digging audio quality. Then I turned up the volume and that made huge difference.

I made several test calls to include stationary while sitting on my desk and also walking around the office. The noise canceling mic is ok. Good enough especially for sub $40 headset with inline controls.

Overall this is a nice addition to the Plantronics portfolio in terms of having multiple options/solutions for the ever changing communications and collaboration landscape. More and more workers are using their mobile devices to communicate and collaborate. Some like the stability a headband headset offers vs smaller in the ear or over the ear Bluetooth solutions. Some companies don’t allow Bluetooth at all so the Plantronics Blackwire C215/ C225 are good options.

How to show co-workers Your Status

Are you busy? How to show co-workers your status

Are you wondering how to show co-workers your status if you’re working in office or even working from home to avoid distractions? Before we added our Kuando Omega Busylights it was somewhat chaotic. As most know who follow this blog, we are 100% Microsoft Lync/Skype for Business. First thing to go were our desk phones as folks opted for headsets or USB speakerphones.

However we had some issues. Because we actively sell multiple devices from various manufacturers, we have a mix of Plantronics, Jabra, Sennheiser, Logitech, VXi, and Microsoft headsets. Not all brands offer “online indicator lights” and the ones that do, all look different.

The Jabra busy light only works with certain Jabra Wireless Headset models. The same is true for the Plantronics brand. What if employee had corded headset or a brand other than Plantronics and Jabra?

How to show co-workers Your StatusHow to show co-workers Your Status

I had tested the Kuando Busylight and it was pretty sweet. It was USB so it was headset/device brand agnostic. Not only did it indicate if you were online or not, it also showed your Microsoft Lync Presence status. Available (Green) – Do Not Disturb (Purple) – Busy (Red) and Away (Yellow)

How to show co-workers Your Status

One issue…light was too small. You had to be right up a person to see their status. Then I learned about the Kuando Omega busylight which was exactly what we were looking for. Bigger light that can be seen from a distance.

How to show co-workers Your Status

They are so much more than online indicator lights that show Presence status.

Skype for Business

1st class designed software

How to show co-workers Your Status

Never miss a call

  • Rings and/or flashes on incoming calls
  • Adjustable volume

Message waiting indication

  • Notification alert on missed calls/IMs
  • Flashes every 4 sec. to indicate a missed call

Presence indication

  • Avoids interruptions while on a call or busy
  • Lights up your Lync/SfB presence to inform nearby colleagues if you are available or not

Lync Call Handling tools – valuable hot keys

  • Fast dial out – copy phone number and press hot key.
  • Answer call – press hot key to answer/end call
  • Busy on busy –redirect a 2nd call to destination for unanswered calls (call group/voice mail/?) (If you are on the phone, and someone else is calling you – what happens?)

Now I can look out across the sales floor and “see” everyone’s presence status. We even got creative and affixed lights above private office doors so people coming to our office can “see” if we are available or not.

 

If you are in a UC environment that is supported by Kuando and are curious on how to show co-workers your status this may be an option for you to consider.

Click here for more info on Kuando Busylight UC – Implementation