Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

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Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

Jabra Evolve is new series of USB headsets that includes multiple models however this particular variant is one of the cooler headsets I’ve had the pleasure of evaluating. What we’re reviewing today is the Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo.

Two Evolve 80 variants:

Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo (Jabra SKU# JBR-7899-823-109-003 )

Jabra Evolve 80 UC Stereo (Jabra SKU# JBR-14401-11-018 )

Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

What’s in the box: Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo Headset, Carry Pouch, Cable Management clip, USB Controller (Jabra Evolve Link), User Guide & Warranty Info

Set Up for Softphone Use: The Evolve includes hardwired 3.5mm cable that connects into the USB Controller. Connect USB cable into USB port on PC. Like the majority of business use headsets, it’s important to download the appropriate software for optimal quality and feature functionality. Jabra offers Jabra PC Suite (now Jabra Direct) for individual download or Jabra Xpress for mass deployment. Once downloaded, check to see firmware is up to date. Since we use Microsoft Lync (now Skype for Business) I have also configured for Microsoft.

Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

Right and Left ear speakers are clearly marked. The boom microphone is on the right side.

Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

Jabra Evolve 80 MS Stereo

The USB Controller includes answer/end call button, volume down, volume up, mute switch and Busylight indicator (little ring around Jabra logo).

Another cool feature that at first may go unnoticed is the little grippy pad on the underside of the USB controller. It prevents controller from sliding on your desk. Most other USB headsets with inline control typically hang down by your knees and aren’t very practical. So this is nice feature.  Additionally you can accept and handle multiple calls at same time via USB controller. Read user manual for “how to” do this.

The Evolve 80 has Active Noise Canceling (ANC) which is awesome feature if you really need to concentrate and block out background noise. The ANC on/off button is located on the underside of Right speaker. There is also a “Listen In” feature that allows you to listen to your surroundings if you need to. Listen in button also Right speaker under Jabra logo.

You must charge headset for at least 3hrs for ANC to work. Once charged you get up to 24 hrs. of ANC time. Battery indicator light on underside of Left speaker. Evolve 80 must be connected via USB for headset to charge. 3.5mm cable alone will not charge headset.

Set Up for Mobile Device: Disconnect 3.5mm cable from USB Controller and connect 3.5mm plug to mobile device that supports. Reminder that headset does not charge when connected via 3.5mm plug.

If your softphone supports transferring call to mobile device, you can switch from PC to mobile.

Actual Wear and Use: I’m all for the “open office” concept.  It does foster more collaboration amongst co-workers however at times it can get “noisy” and hard to concentrate. The Evolve 80 is a great solution. When you really need to concentrate simply put your Evolve 80 headset on, turn on the ANC and focus. The speakers completely surround your ears in what feels like a cushiony pillow.

Yet another great feature is the Busylight indicator on both speakers and USB controller. It lets others know you are in a call. Additionally you can manually turn on/off Busylight. Again, if you need to focus and not be bothered, turn on the Busylight indicator so folks leave you alone.

I LOVE listening to music while working. These Evolve 80 stereo headsets produce great audio quality while listening to music. One of the features of Lync I use sometimes is forwarding calls to my mobile device. I can connect the Evolve 80 to my mobile device and stream music. Paired with Active Noise Canceling turned on it’s like the whole world just disappears and I can just enjoy the music!

In closing, I believe Jabra has knocked it out of the park with the Evolve 80 stereo headset. These can be used at work, home or when traveling in trains and planes. The Active Noise Canceling is comparable if not better than my Bose headphones. I will be replacing my Bose with the new Jabra Evolve 80!

 

What’s the difference between Logitech H570e USB Headsets vs H650e USB Headsets?

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More and more organizations are implementing/deploying some form of unified communications and collaboration platform/application. This has increased the need for USB headsets in certain environments.

I should write a blog on the importance of devices, the variety and the critical role they play in the adoption and optimization of a UC&C platform. Of course, education and training on all the feature/functionality of a new platform is also a must.

Due to inaccurate budgeting for UC&C devices, there is a strong need for low-cost USB headsets to get people up and running. Many device manufacturers have recognized this and have created USB headsets to fill the need.

The latest addition to the Logitech Business Product Portfolio is the Logitech USB Headset Mono H570e and Stereo (dual ear) models. Customers ask… What’s the difference between H650e and H570e?

Below are some differences and similarities between the two series:

 

  • In-Call LED right-light indicator on the back of the mic boom
    • H650e models have this feature vs H570e models do not
    • Logitech H570e USB Headsets vs H650e
    • In a high paced open office/contact center environment this visible in-call indicator is a great feature to let others know you are actively in a call.
  • Carrying Bag
    • H650e models include vs H570e models do not
    • Logitech H570e USB Headsets vs H650e
    • This is great for protecting and storing your headset when not in use.
  • Color & Ear Cushion style
    • H650e has metallic highlight in boom vs H570e solid black boom
    • Ear Cushion style different
    • H570e Stereo
    • Logitech H570e USB Headsets vs H650e
    • H650e Stereo
    • Logitech H570e USB Headsets vs H650e
  • Audio Quality
    • Based on my own experience, audio quality both receive/transmit were comparable, however, the H650e series did fair a little better.
  • Compatibility
    • H650e Series: Compatible with most leading UC platforms such as Microsoft Lync, Skype, Google Hangouts Pro, Cisco and more.
    • H570e Series: Compatible with most leading UC platforms, such as Microsoft® Lync™, Skype™, Cisco Jabber™, Cisco® IP Communicator, Google Hangouts, Apple FaceTime, etc.
  • Certifications
    • H650e Series: Optimized for Microsoft® Lync™; Cisco® compatible
    • H570e Series: Optimized for Microsoft® Lync™; Skype™ certified; Cisco® compatible
  • Comfort
    • Both H650e and H570e series are very comfortable headsets. I found the H650e to be just a tad more comfortable.
  • Warranty
    • Both H650e and H570e Series include a 2-year limited hardware warranty.

Both Logitech H650e and H570e headsets should be considered if you are looking or corded USB headsets for your

Jabra PRO 935 Dual Connectivity Review

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The Jabra PRO 935 Dual Connectivity wireless headset is part of a larger PRO 900 Series family. All variants include Headband and Ear Hook wearing styles.

PRO 920/930 Variants:

PRO 925 Variants:

  • Single Connectivity
    • PRO 925 – Desk Phone
    • Dual Connectivity
      • PRO 925 Dual Connectivity – Desk Phone and Mobile

PRO 935 Variants:

  • Single Connectivity
    • PRO 935 – PC Only
      • SKU# 935-15-509-185
    • PRO 935 MS – PC Only (Lync Optimized)
      • SKU# 935-15-503-185
    • Dual Connectivity –
      • Bluetooth & NFC
      • PRO 935 Dual Connectivity – PC and Mobile
        • SKU# 935-15-509-205
      • PRO 935 MS Dual Connectivity – PC and Mobile (Skype for Business)

I was curious to test this new Jabra PRO 935 Dual Connectivity wireless headset.

What’s in the box?: Headset, Base, Headband, Ear Hook, USB Cable, AC Power Cable, and some FCC notice.

Jabra PRO 935 Dual Jabra PRO 935 Dual

Jabra PRO 935 Dual

 

Initial thoughts: Looks just like the PRO 930 MS and looks super easy to set up.

Set Up: Super simple to set up. Only two cables: Power cable you plug into outlet and USB Cable.

Jabra PRO 935 Dual Jabra PRO 935 Dual

Next, you need to decide wearing style. Personally, I think Jabra needs to do a little work on designing better over the ear hook. Not a fan of this current ear hook however, others seem to like it. I personally prefer headband for this headset. Changing out wearing styles is very easy as well. Headband and ear hook just snap on and off. You can wear on right or left ear. Place headset on charging base to charge.

Jabra Pro Dual Review
Jabra Pro Dual Review

I test a lot of different headsets so I am fully aware that for any USB headsets, you should really download the manufacturers’ software. In this case, it’s Jabra PC Suite (now Jabra Direct) or for enterprise Jabra Xpress. I help a lot of customers as well as our internal users with “getting their headset to work”. Often times when Jabra USB headset “isn’t working” the first question I ask is, “Do you have Jabra PC Suite or Xpress?” The most common answer is, “No”. Typically once the software is downloaded, they will find they have to “Update” the firmware. This is very important if you wish to have optimal performance out of your Jabra USB headset corded or wireless. Another thing end-users tend to neglect is going into your PC’s Control Panel à Hardware & Sound or Sound à Make Jabra PRO 935 your default device for Playback and Recording if you wish to have all PC sounds go through your headset.

Jabra Pro 935 Dual
Jabra Pro 935 Dual

Once updates are complete, you can open Jabra PC Suite Control Center to view other options and customize feature/functionality further.

I use Microsoft Lync so I go into my Lync Options menu and select Jabra PRO 935 as my audio device.

Pairing to Mobile Device: Again very easy process. With the headset on, press mobile device button on the front of the base of PRO 935 until it goes into pairing mode (pairing mode announcement made in headset). Go to Bluetooth menu on your mobile device and select “Jabra PRO”, it should “connect”. Jabra PRO 935 does support streaming audio from a mobile device so you can listen to music or audio from videos.

I didn’t pair to NFC device however I have in the past and that is super simple. Just tap headset NFC zone to NFC enabled mobile device and a message pops up asking if you would like to pair. Again, very easy.

Headset Controls: The Jabra PRO 935 has very pronounced and easy to use controls. The Multi-function button acts as answer/hang up for Lync calls as well as mobile calls. Then there are volume up (+), volume down (-) and mute buttons.

Jabra PRO 935 Dual

Audio Quality: The audio quality is good. I can hear just fine and I haven’t heard any complaints from people I call about transmit issues.

Wireless Range: Jabra claims up to 300ft from base and 33ft from a mobile device. We have 25,000 sq ft facility and I was able to go to every corner of the building and still remain connected to call. I did begin to cut out in the stairwell as I headed downstairs. However, that’s typical of most wireless headsets. For Bluetooth wireless, it was a very good range. Again, I’m able to roam throughout our office space with no problems. Of course, we have a very open workspace. Wireless range is always dependent on a variety of factors like building material, floor layout, other wireless devices, etc.

Closing Comments: This has been a very good solid performing headset. The initial purpose of the new PRO 925 and Jabra PRO 935 Dual variants was to support high-density wireless deployments as these new variants use 2G4 Wireless (Bluetooth 2.4GHz operating frequency). However, I believe these can be great standalone devices purchased by anyone looking for wireless PC and Mobile connectivity in the office. Another awesome feature is 12hr Talk Time!!! Fortunately, I haven’t had to work a full 12hrs but it does last a full 8am-5pm day.

Sennheiser MB Pro 2 UC ML – Product Review

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July 29, 2014

By Danny Hayasaka

Sennheiser was here the other day and left me this little gem of a product, the Sennheiser MB Pro 2 UC ML.

What you get in the box: Headset, Dongle, USB charging stand, Safety guide, InCompliance leaflet, Quick guide

Set Up: Like most USB headsets today, it’s important to download Sennheiser software especially HeadSetUp and Sennheiser Updater. For connection to PC, insert USB dongle into USB port. Device drivers will install. Appears to automatically pair to USB dongle. Connect Charging Stand via USB to PC. Allow headset to charge

  • 40 min fast charge for 7.5hrs of talk time
  • 2hr 30 min complete charge cycle for 15hrs of talk time

You can check battery charge level by pressing multi-function button and voice prompt tells you “Above 10 hrs talk time”. You can also place headset on charge stand and watch the blue LED light. Red light blinks once if below 1hr talk time. Blue light blinks four times if above 10 hrs of talk time.

To pair to mobile device place headset into Bluetooth Pairing mode

  • Turn headset off by pressing multi-function button for like two seconds
  • Press and hold multi-function button until you hear “Pairing” about 6 seconds
  • Place mobile device into pairing mode
  • Select “Sennheiser MB Pro..”
  • Should pair right up

Pretty standard pairing procedure, you will hear voice prompt telling “Pairing successful” plus if paired to dongle it will let you know you are paired to dongle as well.

Volume and Mute Control Switch – forwards and back to increase/decrease volume. Press in to mute during call and press again to unmute.

Actual use: We use Microsoft Lync here so I was able to select Sennheiser from list of audio devices (I have several Lync devices connected to my PC) I made a few test calls via Lync and was surprised at the range I received. I can roam basically throughout our entire 2nd floor. Please note we have open floor plan except for a few offices around the perimeter and conf room in the middle. Audio quality was pretty poor in stairwell and when I went to the furthest corner of building. That was expected however, it did NOT disconnect the call.

Audio quality of standard call was really good and the noise canceling mic appears to work well and better than most standard NC mics.

Here’s where it gets good. The headset seems “to know” when you are streaming music and the volume level and audio quality seem to improve to support music. STREAMING MUSIC SOUNDS REALLY GOOD!!! As we know,  most Bluetooth headsets that support PC/Mobile connectivity (Voyager Legend UC, Motion UC, VoxStar UC, Presence UC)  are “single ear” and music sounds, “okay” at best when being streamed. Music pumping through both speakers is like being in your own little world at work. If a call comes through, you can answer. When you hang up, you go right back to the music. And…with the crazy battery life of the MB Pro 2, you are assured uninterrupted music and talking during your work day.

Conclusion: The Sennheiser MB Pro 2 is a nice addition to the Sennheiser portfolio. If you are an individual who requires dual connectivity (PC/Laptop and Mobile device), and wants to drown the outside world by streaming music or you just prefer dual ear coverage with a very good noise canceling mic, then the MB Pro 2 is for you. It comes in two variants:

  1. SEN-506045-006 Optimized for major softphone and UC brands, the headsets are designed for UC business professionals who demand wireless communication freedom, brilliant sound quality, and exceptional wearing comfort.
  2. SEN-506046-006 Optimized for Microsoft Lync, the headsets are designed for UC business professionals who demand wireless communication freedom, brilliant sound quality, and exceptional wearing comfort.

 

Speakerphones for Mobile Devices

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July 24, 2014

By Danny Hayasaka

When it comes to Speakerphones for mobile devices, there are a variety of options available. I personally have used Jabra, Plantronics, Logitech and recently Sennheiser’s speakerphone solutions for mobile devices.

Why would you need speakerphone for mobile? Better audio quality. Like most folks, all contacts are stored on my mobile phone. It’s easier and more convenient to just call from mobile device for ad-hoc conf call. The issue is the audio quality of the speakers and mic from most mobile devices is poor. If you have two or more folks who need to participate in call, it’s a good idea to have speakerphone that can enhance the audio quality.

To keep this blog short, I’ll concentrate on just the smaller speakerphones by Plantronics, Jabra, Logitech and Sennheiser that are great for two to four people. Polycom, Konftel and ClearOne also provide solutions for mobile devices.

Plantronics, Jabra and Logitech provide Bluetooth connectivity to mobile device where Sennheiser offers 3.5mm plug audio cable connection. Logitech also supports NFC (Near Field Communications).

 

 

Plantronics Calisto 620

This unit offers dual connectivity to PC (via USB dongle) and Mobile device (via Bluetooth). It is a rechargeable wireless device with up to 7hrs of Talk Time with up to 5 days of standby time and includes neoprene carry case. I do have a concern with this unit. You have USB cable and AC Wall Charger option however those items don’t fit in carry case. They do offer a little slot on the underside of unit to slide USB dongle into for storage.

 

 

Jabra Speak 510

The Jabra Speak 510 and 510+ models both offer dual connectivity PC (via USB dongle) and Mobile device (via Bluetooth). They are also rechargeable and wireless with up to 15hrs of Talk Time. Both the 510 and 510+ include a hardwired USB cable that conveniently wraps around base for storage and portability. The 510+ includes a USB dongle for wireless connectivity to PC and neoprene storage case.

 

Logitech P710e

This unit has some cool features that some may appreciate. In addition to Bluetooth, the Logitech P710e also supports NFC (Near Field Communication). You must be connected via USB cable to use with PC but that’s ok as it also has nice USB cable management system on the underside. It does include rechargeable battery and provides up to 15hrs of Talk Time.  The P710e has unique feature none of the other speakerphones offer which is a device stand for your mobile phone or tablet. At first, most will wonder, “Why?” I have a couple reasons: 1. Stability when doing video call with smart phone or tablet. 2. Great stand when watching movies via mobile device. Also includes neoprene carry case.

 

Sennheiser SP 20

The Sennheiser SP Series are the latest additions to the personal/small group speakerphone space. Please note currently neither SP 10 or SP 20 models support Bluetooth or NFC.  Only the the SP 20/20 ML variants offer mobile device connectivity via 3.5mm plug. Both SP 10 and SP 20 models connect to PC via USB. The SP 20 offers USB and 3.5mm audio cable management around the base of unit for easy storage. Also includes a neoprene carry case. It also has rechargeable battery for wireless use with mobile device and provides up to 20hrs of Talk Time.

But which sounds the better?

Based on my own personal testing, I’m going to rank them in order of best to okay as none were horrible when it came to audio quality, it’s just some stood out. Additionally, I’m ranking in terms of both speakerphone audio quality during call as well as streaming media audio quality.

Ranking for Audio Quality via Call

  1. Jabra Speak 510/510+
  2. Sennheiser SP 10/SP 20
  3. Plantronics Calisto 620
  4. Logitech P710e

Ranking for Audio Quality for Streaming Media

  1. Sennheiser SP 20 (Hands down, no contest. Sennheiser SP 20 has sound-enhancement profile that makes streaming music sound awesome)
  2. Plantronics 620
  3. Jabra Speak 510/510+
  4. Logitech P710e

Again, these are just my rankings based on personal use with Microsoft Lync, iPhone and iPad.

What replaces the Jabra GO 6430 and GO 6470?

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The Jabra GO 6400 series have been deemed End of Life/Discontinued. So now what?

Fortunately Jabra has the new Motion Series available. The main differences in the GO 6400 series vs the Motion Series listed below:

  1. Wearing style
    1. GO 6400: Ear Hook, Headband, Neckband
    2. Motion: Wrap around the ear
    3. A2DP Streaming (profile that allows multimedia audio (i.e. music, GPS audio) to be streamed to headset
      1. Supported by Motion (Bluetooth 4.0)
      2. Not supported by GO 6400 (Bluetooth 2.1)
    4. NFC (Near Field Communication)
      1. Supported by Motion
      2. Not supported by GO 6400
    5. Talk Time/Standby time
      1. GO 6400 series up to 6hrs/Up to 100hrs
      2. Motion series up to 8hrs/Up to 360hrs
    6. Busy Indicator Light
      1. GO 6400 series do not support
      2. Motion
        1. Busy indicator light on headset
        3. Motion Office base has Busy Indicator Light port on base to support external Jabra Busylight Indicator.

Jabra GO 6400 series included the GO 6430 and GO 6470 both were UC compatible and optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator and Lync.

  • GO 6430 allowed you to pair to Mobile device and PC via USB Bluetooth dongle
    • Jabra GO 6430 6470
  • GO 6470 allowed you to connect/pair to Desk Phone, PC and Mobile device
    • Jabra GO 6430 6470

 

Jabra Motion Series includes the Jabra Motion UC, Motion UC+, Motion UC MS, Motion UC+ MS, Motion Office and Motion Office MS.

  • 6630-900-105 Jabra Motion UC – Mobile and PC connectivity
  • 6630-900-305 Jabra Motion UC MS – Optimized for Microsoft Lync – Mobile and PC connectivity
  • 6640-906-105 Jabra Motion UC+ with Travel Kit – Mobile and PC connectivity
  • 6640-906-305 Jabra Motion UC+ MS with Travel Kit – Optimized for Microsoft Lync – Mobile and PC connectivity
    • Jabra GO 6430 6470
  • 6670-904-105 Jabra Motion Office – Desk Phone, PC and Mobile Connectivity
  • 6670-904-305 Jabra Motion Office MS – Optimized for Microsoft Lync – Desk Phone, PC and Mobile Connectivity
    • Jabra GO 6430 6470

How you work, communicate and collaborate will determine which Jabra Motion is best for you. It’s strongly recommended you speak with device specialist to help guide you.

Poly Voyager Legend Review

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Poly produces some great communications and collaboration devices to include the Poly Voyager Legend series, however, customers are often confused as to which model to order. For today’s blog, I’m going to do a quick break down of the differences.

Poly Voyager Legend

It all starts with connectivity. What are you looking to connect/pair to?

If you are simply looking for a Bluetooth headset to pair with your mobile device (smartphone/tablet) the standard Poly Voyager Legend (Plantronics Part# 87300-01 or 89880-01 includes case) will suffice.

In today’s world, folks have a need to connect to a mobile device and their PC/Laptop for web-based collaboration applications or VoIP softphone/UC platforms. The appropriate model would be the Voyager Legend UC (Standard UC version B235, 87670-01 or Microsoft Lync Optimized version B235-M, 87680-01) which includes Voyager Legend headset plus a USB Bluetooth dongle for PC/Laptop.

Poly Voyager Legend UC

Then there are those who have office desk phones however, also have a mobile device. For this scenario, the appropriate device is the Voyager Legend CS (Plantronics Part# 88863-01 or 88863-11 with HL10 Handset Lifter) which includes a base that allows for connectivity to a desk phone. Both models support EHS Cables and HL10’s.

Poly Voyager Legend CS

 

Connectivity:

  • Mobile Device only –> Poly Voyager Legend: Plantronics Part# 87300-01 or 89880-01 includes case
  • Mobile Device and PC –> Poly Voyager Legend UC: Standard UC version B235, 87670-01 or Microsoft Lync Optimized version B235-M, 87680-01
  • Mobile Device and Office Desk Phone –> Poly Voyager Legend CS: Plantronics Part# 88863-01 or 88863-11 with HL10 Handset Lifter

 

 

Phone or Headset in Lync environment?

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June 26, 2014

By Danny Hayasaka

I remember the planning days when we decided to make the switch from an old Inter-Tel phone system to Microsoft Lync. Even though we were using headsets attached to our desk phones, we still felt it necessary to provide employees with desk phones and headsets.

I believe it took about three months, before the majority of our employees removed the phones off their desk. In a 100% Lync environment, a headset and webcam are all you really need. Of course some folks still can’t make the transition so they must have a desk phone.

The key to knowing whether or not you provide a desk phone, is understanding employees’ roles and how they “work” on a daily basis. In addition to Lync, do they have mobile devices (smartphones and tablets) they have to connect to?

I personally get to test/evaluate many of the devices for Lync so my desk and book shelf are full of multiple products from various manufacturers (Yes, I love what I do).

The way I work, requires me to pair to my PC for Lync calls as well as my mobile phone. Great products that provide that connectivity are the Jabra Motion UC+ MS, Plantronics Voyager Legend UC-M (B235-M), Sennheiser Presence UC ML, and VXi VoxStar UC. All these models allow me to pair to my PC via Bluetooth USB Dongle and my mobile phone via Bluetooth. Regardless of where call comes from (PC or mobile) I can answer with one headset. Additionally, at the end of the day, I can drive home and use same headset for hands-free driving.

However, there are still areas of an organization that require something other than a headset. For example, conference rooms, training rooms, etc. require conference phones or conferencecams. Polycom and Logitech make great Lync optimized devices for those areas like the Polycom CX5100, CX5500 or even CXC8000. From Logitech you have the BCC 950 and CC3000e ConferenceCams.

As I mentioned earlier, some folks will NOT wear a headset and MUST have a phone. Fortunately there are Lync optimized IP phones available from Polycom, HP and Aastra. Then there are a host of Lync compatible phones from AudioCodes, Spectralink, Polycom and Snom that offer multiple features.

How each individual employee works should dictate which device is best. It’s important to seek out a device-centric vendor who specializes in Lync optimized/compatible devices that can guide you through the MANY options that are available and help with best practices. If the vendor uses Lync themselves, like Call One, Inc. it’s a plus!

UC or Microsoft Variant when choosing headsets?

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By Danny Hayasaka

June 12, 2014

More and more organizations have hybrid communications and collaboration platforms that involve many of the major voice and UC platform providers. It’s very rare to find a company that is 100% Microsoft Lync, 100% Cisco, 100% Avaya, etc. The majority have a mix of platforms.

Some organizations have two, three, four or more various communications and collaboration platforms which increases the challenge of selecting the right, compatible device. Some companies have Cisco and Microsoft Environments or Avaya and Microsoft. Some have other lesser known VoIP platforms plus they use Google Hangouts or Skype for video. The point is, it’s not so simple selecting a compatible headset with all the “web-based” applications and collaboration platforms in use.

In my earlier blog about “Which Wireless Headset is the Best” I discussed there are multiple variables to consider when selecting a wireless headset. Voice and Collaboration platform is one of those variables. Understanding exactly which platform/s the headset will be used with helps in identifying the compatible device.

For now, I’ll focus on Microsoft Lync & “Other” platform and Plantronics, Jabra, and Sennheiser headsets as they have UC and Microsoft Optimized variants of their USB model corded and wireless headsets. VXi offers Microsoft “compatible” headsets however currently do not have “optimized” variants. Additionally, Logitech Business USB headsets are Lync optimized however do not have different UC and Microsoft Lync variants.

Important note for Plantronics, Jabra, and Sennheiser: They offer software that enables and is sometimes necessary to support some feature/functionality depending on softphone like answer/hang up from headset or inline control. The software is either for individual download or for IT to use as a tool to remotely access and control the various devices.

Plantronics Software link: Spokes & Plantronics Enterprise Management (PEM)

Jabra PC Suite (Individual)

Jabra Xpress (IT)

Sennheiser Software: Cisco Jabber Plugin, Sennheiser Updater, IBM Sametime, HeadSetup

For Plantronics in mixed platform environment where Microsoft Lync is not the main voice platform, it’s recommended to select UC variant of their models with Plantronics Spokes or PEM. In an environment where Microsoft Lync is being used as the main voice platform, then Microsoft Lync Optimized variant is recommended.

When it comes to Jabra and Sennheiser in a mixed environment, they recommend Microsoft Lync Optimized variant over UC models. Again, it’s always best to download Jabra PC Suite, Jabra Xpress or Sennheiser appropriate software.

The best thing you can do is engage a device-centric partner that takes the time to understand your environment discusses the various options available.

 

Which Wireless Headset is the Best?

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Which Wireless Headset is the Best? I get this question A LOT! The answer is, “It depends”.

There are multiple variables to consider. What are those variables?

  • What are you connecting to?
    • Desk Phone
      • For Remote Answer/Hang Up does your phone support:
        • Handset Lifter or EHS (Electronic Hook Switch) Cable
      • PC/Laptop
        • Which softphone/UC platform?
        • Firmware upgradeable options available via software downloads (typically free)
          • Corporate software downloads available that supports the ability to push out updates company-wide remotely
            • Makes large deployments easier
          • Mobile device (Smartphone/Tablet)
            • Bluetooth
            • NFC
          • Combination? Which combination?
            • Desk Phone, PC & Mobile
            • Desk Phone & PC
            • Desk Phone & Mobile
            • PC & Mobile
            • Microsoft Lync Optimized

  • Which wearing style do you prefer?
    • Headband
      • Single ear
      • Dual ear
    • Neckband
    • Over the ear
    • Convertible

  • Wireless Frequency and Range
    • Wireless frequency
      • 9GHz DECT
      • Bluetooth
      • 900 MHz
      • A mix based on need and density concerns
    • Wireless range
      • Up to 33ft all the way up to 450ft
      • When it comes to wireless range – there are factors to consider
        • Building material, furniture, floor layout, density, other wireless interferences, etc.

Which Wireless Headset is the Best

  • Talk Time – most folks want a “full 8hrs” however the reality is, most normal office workers only spend 30min – 3hrs actually engaged in phone calls. Of course there are exceptions.
    • Talk times vary from model to model
    • Anywhere from up to 6hrs to infinite talk time (with hot swappable battery option)
  • Field Replaceable Battery
    • We have many “Do it Yourself” types that like the ability to order replacement batteries
  • Warranty
    • Industry standard is 1 year warranty for wireless headsets
    • Some brands offer 2 year warranty on their wireless
  • Multi-Shift?
    • Is there a need to support multiple shifts and/or desk sharing (hot desking)
  • Price
    • MSRP range from $149.95 – $449.95 per wireless headset

Which Wireless Headset is the Best

As you can see, there are many variables to consider when selecting a wireless headset. What is the “best” for one person may not necessarily be for another.

It’s important to work with a headset vendor with experience and knowledge in all these variables to help you find the right wireless headset for you.